January 2022    
         
         
 
     
  Alimentary ailments  
     
  The holidays can be a season of overindulgence. Heartburn, nausea, and other digestive woes are common, especially during times of cuisine-based cheer, but frequent tummy troubles shouldn’t be ignored. In addition to preventing or treating serious illness, investigating indigestion might improve your quotidian quality of life.  
     
  Belly swell  
     
 
balloons lifting woman
 
 
     
  (iStock.com/yulkapopkova)  
     
 
     
  You may find yourself uncomfortably bloated now and then, but why? It’s essentially water retention or trapped gas, usually related to gastrointestinal issues, hormones, or lifestyle.  
     
  It could be constipation, dietary intolerances, or gas-inducing foods. It could be menstrual cycle fluctuations, pregnancy, or perimenopause. It could be air swallowed while chewing gum or drinking through a straw.  
     
 
  Foods high in FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols)—like beans, garlic, and Brussels sprouts—are common triggers for digestive distress.  
 
       
  Constant bloating, however, could be a sign of a serious condition; ask a health care provider to learn more.  
     
 
 
  News to chew on  
     
 
     
  1  
     
 
Gastrointestinal diseases are becoming more prevalent in younger adults. Colorectal cancer screening guidelines now suggest starting at 45 years old, down from 50.
 
     
     
     
 
     
  2  
     
 
Probiotics have been shown to help with some GI conditions, including IBS and ulcerative colitis. But the scientific evidence for general use remains thus far inconclusive.
 
     
     
     
 
     
  3  
     
 
Restoring a single microbial species to the gut microbiome at the right developmental moment may prevent antibiotic-induced colitis.
 
     
     
 
         
         
    Spotlight    
         
         
 
     
  Have a gas!  
     
 
whoopee cushion
 
 
     
  (iStock.com/lucamontevecchi)  
     
 
     
  Jokesters have been using whoopee cushions since ancient Rome.  
     
  It’s a timeless prank because most of us are embarrassed by bodily functions—so embarrassed that many people are reluctant to discuss digestive symptoms even with their doctors. But health care relies on candid communication. Here are some tips to help handle an awkward conversation.  
     
 
 
  In case you missed it  
     
 
 
 
Nanocrystals: Big science comes in small packages.
 
 
Bioinspired: Nature is full of inspiration for new materials.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     
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