The New Year commonly ushers in the creation of New Year’s resolutions. To countless individuals across the U.S., that involves setting goals to establish healthy living. During your efforts to conduct research on tips and tricks for a healthier diet and lifestyle, don’t forget to take steps to enhance your digestive wellness. Your gastrointestinal (GI) tract provides a number of vital activities that work to help preserve your overall quality of life, so set a plan into place to take great care of your gut, and welcome in the New Year with a fresh start.
Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates is proud to be your partner in protecting your health against GI concerns. People desiring additional information on how they can boost their digestive health or who are experiencing any issues related to potential GI problems can contact our facility in New Orleans, LA to meet with a seasoned and caring gastroenterologist.
What foods can help to support GI health?
Start the New Year off by planning to incorporate some healthy dietary habits. Included among the most significant things you can do to enhance your digestive health is to take in plenty of foods rich in fiber. By doing so, you can help keep your GI system working efficiently and could prevent concerns, such as constipation, hemorrhoids, and diverticulitis. Foods to incorporate into your dietary intake that contain a high amount of fiber are things like:
- Broccoli
- Beans
- Chickpeas
- Whole grains
- Lentils
- Artichokes
- Green peas
- Apples
Aside from fiber-rich foods, you could additionally consider adding probiotics into your dietary intake. Your gastrointestinal tract relies on a healthy amount of helpful bacteria to function smoothly. By increasing the consumption of good microorganisms, you could potentially support a healthy balance in your digestive tract. Probiotics may be consumed in supplement form or integrated into your nutritional intake in the foods you eat, like yogurt.
What are some other ways to boost my gastrointestinal health?
The foods you eat are only a portion of the process. Other activities that might help fortify your GI health include an exercise regimen. Remaining physically active can help inhibit and relieve constipation, along with increasing the strength of your muscles. The second thing you could do to help enhance your gastrointestinal health is to manage stress effectively. Rampant stress and anxiety may potentially cause symptoms, such as constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Suggestions to reduce stress include meditation, getting quality sleep, and fostering meaningful connections with friends and family. Given that tobacco use has a negative impact on every system in your body, one final way you can help your gastrointestinal health is to cease smoking and consuming tobacco.
Should I see a gastrointestinal doctor?
While sticking to some healthy dietary habits and maintaining an active way of life can significantly improve your gastrointestinal health, there could be occasions upon which you should seek a GI specialist for more distressing symptoms. Indications that you may have a GI disease or condition are:
- Loose bowel movements
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Blood in your stool
- Bladder or bowel incontinence
- Recurring heartburn
- Nausea and vomiting
Should you notice one or more of the above signs or symptoms, contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates promptly. You can arrange for a consultation with a seasoned GI doctor in New Orleans, LA who can identify and help manage GI problems that result in these concerning issues.
Do I need to arrange for a colonoscopy?
Supporting improved gut wellness also includes remaining up to date on your preventive care. Colorectal cancer is the third leading kind of cancer among both men and women; however, the good news is that detecting the disease early can dramatically enhance its prognosis. Medical experts recommend that patients start having periodic colonoscopies at age 45. If a colonoscopy exam is normal, then you won’t need another one for about ten years. Adults can arrange to have a colonoscopy at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.
Speak with a gastrointestinal doctor in New Orleans, LA
Why wait for the New Year to start taking control of your digestive health? Move forward with the healthier, new you right away. With the caring expertise of our team at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, you can begin the New Year with improved digestive health. Our New Orleans, gastroenterologists are among the top professionals in the field. To schedule a visit or to learn more, please contact Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates today.