Ulcerative Colitis Information

The benefits of glucosamine became popular overnight because it was proven to work. Glucosamine is an amino sugar responsible for the construction of body tissues and cartilages. It provides the body with proteoglycans, which help protect the body tissues. These proteoglycans are responsible for the tissues elasticity, and without them, mobility can be very difficult. These act as the cushioning layer for the joints and protect the tissues from any form of damage.

Some people have adequate amount of glucosamine in the body, while others are deficient of it. As an individual goes through the aging process, the body may require more glucosamine in the form of supplements because less is being produced by the body. In order for the joints and tissues to function properly, there should be constant supply of glucosamine.

What are the benefits of glucosamine?

Studies were conducted regarding the efficacy of glucosamine on joint pains. Arthritis patients were overjoyed when they found out that there is a natural treatment that can help alleviate the pain due to their joint condition. However, the benefits of glucosamine do not stop there. Additional studies were conducted and it was reported that glucosamine could help repair the damaged tissues due to various diseases.

Glucosamine for Ulcerative Colitis

Glucosamine has also shown benefits for those who are suffering from ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. This inflammatory bowel disease is often presented with recurring bouts of diarrhea. Clinical studies have shown that glucosamine is far more effective as treatment for this condition compared to the standard treatment methods.

Is Glucosamine Safe to Use?

One of the main reasons why more and more people are using glucosamine supplements is because of the fact that it contains natural properties. Glucosamine is considered as an essential part of the body's systemic functioning, that means supplementing the body with it will not cause any side effects. In addition, the compound is known to be naturally resistant to toxins and that can help lessen toxin buildup within the body.

People wanting to prevent their condition from deteriorating further, would be best to supplement their bodies with glucosamine. There are various glucosamine supplements in the market today that are combined with various herbal extracts and essential vitamins and minerals. This means that the supplement has enhanced effects and benefits for the body's overall health and wellbeing.

Glucosamine is considered as the best supplement if you want to maintain your overall health of your joints and bones. However, when looking for a supplement, make sure that it complies with the standards set by the GMP and the FDA. This is to make sure that you are getting the best out of the supplement you opted for and that you are not supplementing your body with a product that has no benefits.

You should also take note of the studies that showed the effects of glucosamine on diabetes patients and those who are consuming anti-platelet medications. To make sure that you are on the safe side, do not forget to consult your physician first before using any glucosamine supplements. Although they contain all-natural ingredients, remember that it is still better to be safe than sorry.

Up to two million people in the United States alone suffer from varying degrees of Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis. Here are some fact about this debilitating condition.

Crohn's Disease, named after the physician who first described it in 1932, is an inflammatory disease of the digestive system. Although normally causing ulceration in the small and large intestines, it can affect the digestive tract anywhere between mouth and anus. Ulcerative Colitis, however, is confined solely to the colon.

Both of these conditions are collectively known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) - they are both chronic and there is no known cure. Both tend to have periods of inactivity (remission) and activity (relapse) and most often commence during early adulthood, though they can occur at any time in life. Both men and women are affected equally.

Although it is thought that Crohn's Disease may be caused by certain strains of bacteria this is by no means certain and the definite cause is still unknown. It is not thought that diet is responsible for the disease, although diet may affect the symptoms suffered by patients with the condition. It is known, however, that Crohn's Disease is not contagious.

Common symptoms of Crohn's Disease include weight loss, frequent diarrhea and abdominal pain. Less frequent symptoms include rectal pain and bleeding, fever, loss of appetite and night sweats.

The disease tends, in its early stages, to cause small erosions, called aphthous ulcers, to appear on the inner surface of the bowel. In time these become true ulcers as they grow deeper, by then causing scarring and stiffness of the bowel. Ultimately the bowel can become obstructed as the scarring narrows it further and further and deep ulcers can perforate the bowel wall. This can release gut bacteria into the body where infection of other organs or the body cavity itself can occur.

Another complication can be caused when a fistula forms. This is a channel between the intestine and another organ caused when the bowel ulcers tunnel into another organ. These can include bladder, skin, vagina and anus. These fistulas are one of the most distressing complications for anyone suffering from this condition. Crohn's Disease can also cause complications that may or may not be related to the intestine. Although bowel blockage and colon distension can occur, other areas affected can include the lower back, eyes, joints (arthritis), spine, liver and legs. Full discussion of these conditions is beyond the scope of this article.

The disease is often diagnosed by means of Barium X-ray studies performed after the patient has taken barium meal. There are several other methods of diagnosis and these include colonoscopy, CT scanning and video capsule endoscopy, where a small capsule containing a miniature video camera is swallowed. This the sends images to a receiver and thence to an analytical computer program, allowing a close study to be made of the bowel lining.

As there is no cure for Crohn's disease, treatment goals are to induce and maintain periods of remission, improve the patient's quality of life and to reduce the side-effects of medication. The anti-inflammatory medicines used for treating the disease are similar in many ways for those used in the treatment of arthritic conditions.

To summarise, Crohn's disease is a serious condition that has no known cure. It is therefore essential that anyone who has the common symptoms of the disease - severe chronic diarrhea, vomiting, fever and weight loss - consult a doctor at the earliest opportunity. Although this cannot halt the disease, early diagnosis will greatly improve the chances of the patient having a better quality of life than if the disease were to be left undiagnosed and untreated.

All the above information is given in good faith but does not pretend to replace the professional opinion of a qualified doctor or medical practitioner.

Unfortunately, allergies, both food and inhalant, are extremely common. Allergies alone affect billions of people and account for millions of office visits to healthcare practitioners world wide each and every year.

Some of the associations with developing allergies or food sensitivities are exposure in utero, if the mother consumes a lot of the same food during pregnancy, infant exposure to highly allergenic foods (wheat, corn, dairy), poor digestion resulting in increased absorption of macromolecules, decreased secretory IgA, decreased adrenal function, and increased exposure to various toxins and allergens increasing sensitivity.

As far as seasonal allergy symptoms or food allergy symptoms, common signs tend to be, but are not limited to:

• Dark circles under the eyes


• Sinus drainage, with accompanying permanent indent in the nose line from rubbing your nose (referred to as the salute sign)


• Itchy, watering eyes


• Bed wetting


• Bruxism (grinding of your teeth)


• Stomach aches


• Chronic ear infections


• Chronic tonsillitis


• Eczema


• Chronic dermatitis (itching)


• Hives


• Alternating diarrhea and constipation


• Halitosis (bad breath)


• Food cravings


• Inability to concentrate


• Hyperactivity


• Irritability


• Asthma


• Fatigue


• Migraines


• Insomnia


• Joint pain


• Gallbladder pain


• Ulcerative colitis


• Crohn's disease


• Digestive problems


• Hypertension


• Hypoglycemia


• Autoimmune diseases


• Weight gain and edema

The pulse test is based on a simple, easily proven premise that your pulse rate is often accelerated by foods and other substances ingested, inhaled and exposed to because your system is allergically reacting to them. This test can help you identify and eliminate food and environmental allergens.

1. count your pulse for one minute:
   
   
   
   • just before each meal
   
   
   • three times after each meal at half-hour intervals
   
   
   • just before going to bed
   
   
   • just after waking, before rising in the morning
   
   
   • all but the count upon waking are to be done seated.
   
   
   
   


2. record all the items you eat at each meal or inhalant exposure to weeds, dust, pollen or dander


3. continue the pulse records for three days


4. make single-food tests or single inhalant allergy exposure for two or more whole days following this procedure:
   
   
   
   • take your before-rising pulse count each hour for 12-14 hours
   
   
   • eat a small portion of a different single food or expose yourself to a small portion of a single different inhalant.
   
   
   • Do not test any food or inhalant that you know to disagree with you.
   
   
   
   

A drastic increase in pulse rate is a good indicator that you have an allergy to a particular food or inhalant.

As far as treatment for allergies, whether they be food allergy symptoms or seasonal allergy symptoms, great success has been shown with the following guidelines:

• Eliminate allergenic foods through a rotation diet. And eliminate inhalant allergies by avoiding exposure. Any introduction of these substances in a 2 week period negates the entire test period.


• Improve and normalize bowel flora as there is an increased incidence of food allergies and inhalant allergies with parasites and candida.


• Decrease bowel transit time with the use of probiotics. ( I do not recommend long-term use of laxatives, even natural, as these can lead to dependency.


• Improve digestion with enzymes, HCL, no fluid with meals.


• Invest in air filters in every environment you spend a lot of time.


• Increase your intake of Vitamin E (not more than 800 IU/day), Selenium (not more than 200 mcg/day), Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Quercetin, Hesperidin bioflavanoids, EFA's, B6 (too high of doses over 200 mcg/day can lead to neuropathy), B12, Molybdenum and glutamine.


• Support the adrenals, there are a few good combination supplements for this. (do not take black licorice for extended periods of time).

There is absolutely no need for you to live your life around your allergies and suffer needlessly. There are plenty of natural alternatives to combating both your seasonal allergy symptoms as well as your food allergy symptoms. Just be diligent, stick with the program and don't underestimate the power of natural remedies.

If you are among the millions of people searching for a natural cure for ulcerative colitis then you are in luck. There are ways that you can help to manage the symptoms of this very insidious condition. Ulcerative colitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the large intestine. It normally affects people between the age of 15 and 40 and is attributed to heredity or to an autoimmune disorder. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis, which can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cramping can make taking care of your day-to-day activities very difficult. In the most serious cases, the symptoms may even make functioning impossible since it can manifest itself in joint pain and anemia.

There are many medications that your doctor can prescribe that will help you with the symptoms of the disease. These are medicines, such as corticosteroids, that are designed to treat the inflammation. Unfortunately, these medicines just don't work for everyone or you may not want to take another prescription medicine. That is why so many people are searching for a natural cure for ulcerative colitis. There are many natural remedies available. Among the most effective of these are herbal treatments which have proven to help control the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

A readily available natural cure for ulcerative colitis that has proven to be very effective in many cases is the juice of the aloe vera plant. Aloe vera juice is available in quantity and can easily be incorporated into your daily diet. In addition to aloe, other herbal products are used as a natural cure for ulcerative colitis. These include chamomile, turmeric, and boswellia. All can be incorporated into your daily routine and greatly help to alleviate symptoms and can be found at most health food stores and online.

Nutritional supplements can also greatly reduce the need for traditional medicines. Folic acid, fish oil, and soluble fiber have been shown to not only help people with the disease but are helpful in improving health overall. When combined with herbal remedies and dietary changes you can develop a comprehensive program that is a true natural cure for ulcerative colitis.

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can also show up in other serious diseases so it goes without saying that you should consult your doctor before making big changes to your treatment plan. Many doctors are well informed on homeopathic methods of treating the disease and give you good advice on your natural cure for ulcerative colitis. They can also ensure that you are diagnosed correctly. Once you are certain that your condition is indeed ulcerative colitis, you can begin to make the necessary improvements to your diet and begin to incorporate your natural cure into your daily routine and before you know it you'll be back to your old self.

Having ulcerative colitis is a symptom that can cause you to miss out on certain ideals in life that you may be interested in maintaining. You may be too familiar with things such as pains and cramps coming up while you are trying to work, diarrhea hitting you when you are moving towards another area or flares that cause you to remain uncomfortable. If you want to begin to fight your symptoms, you can begin by looking into remedies for ulcerative colitis. This will allow you to control and stop the disease from taking over your life, allowing you to enjoy it instead.

Beyond the medications and surgical options, are also natural remedies that can provide you with a sense of relief. It is important to remember that you will want to find a type of remedy that works for you, whether it is a prescribed medication or a natural one. If you don't, ulcerative colitis can continue to flare and can turn into a threatening disease. While it is considered chronic, the inability to maintain it can make it even worse. Because of this, it is important to find something that maintains and clears the symptoms in order to keep them under control. If you are uncertain of how much to take of a natural remedy or are uncertain of whether it will help you, make sure that you check with a medical physician or find sources of knowledge that can provide you with more information on how to care for your body.

It is said that one of the easiest cures for ulcerative colitis is to begin with changing your diet. By adding in fibers and by reducing fats and sugars, the sores and inflammation will sometimes disappear. However, you will also want to add in specific components in order to balance out the problem. For instance, fish oil, fatty acid and folic acids can all help to relieve the pain and provide less flares from occurring. These particular natural remedies can also help if you have flares and also have constipation, allowing for your intestines to stay calmer, even though you have IBD.

Another set of herbs and natural remedies that can help, include things such as aloe vera, chamomile and boswellia. All three of these ingredients work in order to calm inflammation and can stop the ulcerative colitis flares from occurring. These herbs can also combine together in order to work as a cleansing agent for the body, which will provide you with a fresh start towards your nutrition in relation to the disease that you are fighting.

With all of these options, research has shown that 80-90% of those who have taken the herbal remedies have had positive results in controlling and maintaining their ulcerative colitis. The result among any type of remedy is less inflation, pain, cramps and diarrhea that is associated with the disease, allowing for a natural change in health.

If you are looking for remedies for ulcerative colitis, you will want to begin with finding the natural cures that are available. Knowing the different components, how they work and what they can provide you will allow you to stop the IBD and to begin living your life without the severity of difficulties that may occur.

Turmeric is a spice derived from the dry ground root of the Curcuma longa, a plant native to India and Indonesia with the health benefits of turmeric being utilized for many tens of generations. Although the root has a thick brown skin and orange flesh, turmeric is a deep yellow-orange color from which it derives the nickname of Indian saffron. Turmeric has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years, but it is best known today for its culinary uses. Turmeric gives American yellow mustard its bright yellow color, and it is one of the main ingredients in curry dishes. It has a bitter, peppery flavor and gives off a scent that is similar to mixture of orange peel and ginger.

History of Turmeric
Evidence suggests that turmeric has been used for over 5,000 years. Its use began in Indonesia and India, where it became a valued Ayurvedic medicine where the health benefits of turmeric are used extensively. Use of turmeric for both culinary and medical purposes began to spread in the following centuries, first reaching China and the Middle East. The Middle East introduced turmeric to European traders in the 13th century. Today, turmeric is still principally harvested in India and Indonesia, but it is also an important export in many other countries, such as China, Taiwan, the Philippines, Jamaica and Haiti.

Composition of Turmeric
The primary active ingredient in turmeric is a substance called curcumin, which is non-toxic and gives turmeric its pigmentation. Different batches of turmeric contain varying degrees of curcumin, but turmeric supplements and curcumin extract can be purchased that has a guaranteed and evenly distributed curcumin content. Other nutrients can also be found in turmeric. The nutrients and quantities in 2 teaspoons, or 4.52 grams, of turmeric powder is as follows:

• Manganese - 0.36 mg


• Iron - 1.88 mg


• Vitamin B6 - 0.08 mg


• Potassium - 114.48 mg


• Dietary fiber - 960 mg

Health Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric has been used as a part of traditional Indian and Chinese medicine for centuries, and modern medicine is beginning to back up many of these uses with scientific data. The most widespread use of turmeric is as an anti-inflammatory. Curcumin has been shown to produce anti-inflammatory effects that rival those of hydrocortisone, phenylbutazone and ibuprofen. Additionally, curcumin does not have the potential for toxicity that these other drugs have. Some of the conditions for which turmeric may be beneficial are as follows:

Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Curcumin is an inexpensive and non-toxic way to treat most forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IFB), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. A medical study performed on mice shows that curcumin reduces the inflammation of intestinal walls and reduces intestinal ulcers. The same study showed that curcumin also helps obese mice to lose weight. One of the hallmarks of this study was that curcumin was found to be effective in concentrations of only 0.25 percent, which is about the same as in most curry dishes.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Curcumin has been found to be a powerful antioxidant. As such, it can eliminate free radicals in the body that damage healthy cells. In rheumatoid arthritis, free radicals are responsible for causing joint inflammation and joint pain. The combination of an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory provides relief for those with mild to moderate joint disease. Arthritis sufferers taking curcumin were found to benefit from reduced morning stiffness and increased maximum walking time.

Cystic Fibrosis
A study in 2004 shows that curcumin can correct the most common type of genetic defect that causes cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a life-threatening disease that affects about 30,000 people in the United States. Cystic fibrosis causes the lungs to be covered by a thick mucus, and it also damages the pancreas. The disease is caused by a birth defect in a gene responsible for producing a certain protein. The most common defect is called the DeltaF508 defect. Curcumin has been found to allow the defectively produced protein to be eliminated by the body instead of building up and forming the mucus.

Cancer
Curcumin has been found effective in many types of cancer. Because of its antioxidant properties, it is beneficial for all types of cancer, but studies have primarily focused on colon cancer, prostate cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer and leukemia. Curcumin is also effective against cancer because it has been found to increase liver function. Although curcumin can help prevent cancerous cells from growing, it can also slow the spread of cancerous cells by inhibiting their growth. Turmeric is most effective in fighting cancer when combined with a diet high in beneficial vegetables. Turmeric and onions may help to prevent colon cancer, while turmeric and cauliflower may fight prostate cancer.

Liver Disease
The liver is responsible for detoxifying the blood. This is done through the production of enzymes that break down the toxins into materials that are easily eliminated by the body. Taking turmeric increases the production of these enzymes, thus improving liver function. In studies done on rats, enzyme production increased by 16 percent after 14 days of taking curcumin on a daily basis.

Cardiovascular Disease
Many forms of cardiovascular disease are caused by unhealthy cholesterol levels. When cholesterol oxidizes in the blood, it attaches to the vessel walls and builds up as plaque. Both the curcumin and the vitamin B6 in turmeric can help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol. In addition, vitamin B6 regulates homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is responsible for the direct damage of blood vessels.

Curcumin helps to lower cholesterol levels through interaction with the liver. Liver cells begin to produce increased amounts of mRNA, which increases the number of receptors for LDL cholesterol, thus increasing the elimination of LDL from the body.

Alzheimer's disease
New studies have found that one of the most important health benefits of turmeric may be effective in preventing neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Research began when it was noted that cases of Alzheimer's disease is very low among elderly Indian people with diets high in turmeric. Animal studies have backed up the belief that turmeric slows Alzheimer's disease. It is thought that curcumin may block production of a protein, IL-2, that is known to destroy the protective sheath that surrounds nerves.

In 2004 and 2006, two studies proved that curcumin crosses the blood-brain barrier where a protein called amyloid-B accumulates in the brain and disrupts normal brain function. Normally, this protein is eliminated by the body, but patients with Alzheimer's disease can no longer eliminate it. Curcumin in the brain has the effect of breaking down this protein so it can be successfully eliminated by the body.

Summary
The health benefits of turmeric are still being explored and documented but by using turmeric in curry's or taking supplements, it is possible that a raft of degenerative diseases can be affected positively as well as a tasty meal being cooked!

Aloe vera is an ancient drug which has come into the limelight over the past few years for its newly noted benefits. There are many dietary supplements that exist today which use the powerful ingredients found in the aloe plant. Belonging to the same family as the onion and garlic, there are approx. 320 species of aloe around the world. Most commonly used for health products is 'Aloe Barbadensis Miller'. This particular type boasts of over 74 nutrients including B12, iron, manganese, amino acids, calcium, enzymes, zinc and many others. According to recent research, Aloe vera is packed full qualities and the plant is now being used all over the world for its health and cosmetic properties. From health drinks to moisturisers, wound balms and aloe vera capsules, there are now a world of products available which are derived from this amazing plant.

The Department of Physiology at the University of Texas Health Science Center completed research on the benefits of aloe vera. The tested lab rats had a 10% greater life span after ingesting aloe. There was also less occurrences of disease in the rats, including arterial thrombosis and leukemia. On top of that, there were absolutely no adverse side effects experienced by the animals

If you are considering alternative medicines to treat a serious condition, you should definitely consult your doctor about this, but Aloe Vera Capsules may be the alternative that you are looking for.

BELOW ARE SOME OF THE KNOWN BENEFITS OF TAKING ALOE VERA CAPSULES:

Relief from

Sunburn and Sunstroke

MRSA infection

Skin burn injury

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Ulcerative Colitis

This article gives you information about ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease etc. You can get information about the various symptoms of this disease.

All of us know that ulcerative colitis is a painful condition. Many people mistake it for Crohn's disease. The reason is that both the diseases affect the intestine. But the difference is that colitis affects the colon part of the intestine, the later affects ileum, or small intestine. Some people confuse colitis with irritable bowel syndrome also. In ulcerative colitis, inflammation of the lining of colon results in ulcers. As a result pus is formed and sometimes bleeding also occurs. So, the patient has diarrhea with bleeding.

It is difficult to differentiate between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. This is because both the diseases have more or less the same symptoms. One of the main difference of Crohn's disease is that it affects the ileum, esophagus and even mouth. This disease can affect any person irrespective of sex and age. Usually it affects people between 15 to 40. Some clinical studies reveal a hereditary factor. According to some clinical studies, this disease runs in some families. So, if you have a case history, you should try to take care to prevent it. Many theories exist for the colitis, though the real reason behind it has not be proven yet. It is known to be an autoimmune disease.

The common symptoms are fatigue, weight loss, diarrhea, joint pain, anemia, etc. The most important thing about the symptom is that they occur in periodic intervals. Some may experience muscular cramps, loss of fluid from body etc. In children, it results in growth failure. Whatever the symptom may be, it causes severe irritation in the patient. So, it is better to treat it as soon as possible. Moreover, it is important to rule out the other two diseases like Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Usually doctors do a physical examination followed by a blood sample. A stool check follows. Finally, an endoscopy is done to diagnose the disease.

Once it is diagnosed as colitis, the treatment varies. This is because severity of the disease also varies from person to person. The common treatment is of course drug therapy. Here the patient is administered tablets like aminosalicylates; Sulfasalazine is usually given as tablets, injections or enemas. Corticosteroids are also given to reduce inflammation. In severe conditions, hospitalization may be necessary. And if the patient does not react positively to drug therapy, a colonoscopy is advised.

The best place to get ulcerative colitis info is from your doctor, but knowing that friends and family members as well as patients sometimes do not get as much information as they need, this article attempts to answer questions such as "what is ulcerative colitis", as well as provide some information about ulcerative colitis nutrition recommendations. None of this is meant to take the place of your doctor's advice, but merely supplement the information that you already have.

What is ulcerative colitis? It is an inflammatory bowel disease. All or part of the colon may become inflamed. Sores may form on the inner walls of the colon. Depending on how much of the colon that is affected, symptoms may be mild, moderate or severe and typically include diarrhea with mucus and/or blood present.

What is ulcerative colitis caused by? According to the latest ulcerative colitis info, no one knows exactly why the colon, which includes the large intestine and the rectum, becomes inflamed. It has been noted that patients tend to have immune system problems, but it is unclear whether the ulcerative colitis causes the problems with the immune system or if an overactive immune system causes the ulcerative colitis. Nutrition is particularly important, because diarrhea, a major symptom, may prevent the body from absorbing adequate nutrients from food.

What is ulcerative colitis cured by? According to the latest ulcerative colitis info, surgery that removes the affected portion of the colon is the only "cure". But, it is possible to live with and control the disease, particularly when symptoms are mild to moderate. Ulcerative colitis nutrition recommendations, medications, herbal remedies and other treatment programs are designed to relieve symptoms and prevent the necessity for surgery. It is a chronic disease, which means that it has a tendency to flare up again and again over time. It is helpful for patients to keep a food and symptoms diary, in some cases they are able to determine what foods cause flare ups and avoid those foods.

What are ulcerative colitis nutrition recommendations? Most doctors advise a multi-vitamin, but particularly supplementation of Vitamins D and B12. Vitamin D deficiencies can cause diarrhea. B12 is needed for energy and to help the body properly absorb other nutrient. Supplements containing the botanical aloe have been recommended by doctors and naturalists alike, because of its ability to heal wounds and reduce inflammation. In 2005, ulcerative colitis info concerning the results of a research program using omega-3 from fish oil was released. The results were promising, but there is no plan to market the formula that was used.

Anatomy
The location of the parts of the colon are either in the abdominal cavity or behind it in the retroperitoneum. The colon in those areas is fixed in location.

Ascending colon
The ascending colon is on the right side of the abdomen, is about 12.5 cm long. It is the part of the colon from the cecum to the hepatic flexure (the turn of the colon by the liver). It is [retroperitoneal] in most humans. In grazing animals the cecum empties into the spiral colon. Anteriorly it is related to the coils of small intestine, the right edge of the greater omentum, and the anterior abdominal wall. Posteriorly, it is related to the iliacus, the iliolumbar ligament, the quadratus lumborum, the transverse abdominis, the diaphragm at the tip of the last rib; the lateral cutaneous, ilioinguinal, and iliohypogastric nerves; the iliac branches of the iliolumbar vessels, the fourth lumbar artery, and the right kidney.

Transverse colon
The transverse colon is the part of the colon from the hepatic flexure (the turn of the colon by the liver) to the splenic flexure (the turn of the colon by the spleen). The transverse colon hangs off the stomach, attached to it by a wide band of tissue called the greater omentum. On the posterior side, the transverse colon is connected to the posterior abdominal wall by a mesentery known as the transverse mesocolon.

The transverse colon is encased in peritoneum, and is therefore mobile (unlike the parts of the colon immediately before and after it). More cancers form as the large intestine goes along and the contents become more solid (water is removed) in order to form feces. It is primarily supplied by the middle colic artery, a branch of superior mesenteric artery.

Descending colon
The descending colon is the part of the colon from the splenic flexure to the beginning of the sigmoid colon. It is retroperitoneal in two-thirds of humans. In the other third, it has a (usually short) mesentery.

Sigmoid colon
The sigmoid colon is the part of the large intestine after the descending colon and before the rectum. The name sigmoid means S-shaped (see sigmoid). The walls of the sigmoid colon are muscular, and contract to increase the pressure inside the colon, causing the stool to move into the rectum.

Due to the intermittent high pressure within it, the colon can develop pockets called diverticuli in its walls. The presence of diverticuli, whether harmful or not, is called diverticulosis. An infection of the diverticuli is called diverticulitis.

Sigmoidoscopy is a common diagnostic technique used to examine the sigmoid colon.

Function
The large intestine comes after the small intestine in the digestive tract and measures approximately 1.5 meters in length. Although there are differences in the large intestine between different organisms, the large intestine is mainly responsible for storing waste, reclaiming water, maintaining the water balance, and absorbing some vitamins, such as vitamin K. This is why a colon cleanse is very important to vibrant health.

By the time the chyme has reached this tube, almost all nutrients and 90% of the water have been absorbed by the body. At this point some electrolytes like sodium, magnesium, and chloride are left as well as indigestible carbohydrates known as dietary fiber. As the chyme moves through the large intestine, most of the remaining water is removed, while the chyme is mixed with mucus and bacteria known as gut flora, and becomes feces. The bacteria break down some of the fiber for their own nourishment and create acetate, propionate, and butyrate as waste products, which in turn are used by the cell lining of the colon for nourishment. This is an example of a symbiotic relationship and provides about 100 Calories a day to the body. The large intestine produces no digestive enzymes - chemical digestion is completed in the small intestine before the chyme reaches the large intestine. The pH in the colon varies between 5.5 and 7 (slightly acidic to neutral).

There are a number of diseases or disorders of the colon:

Angiodysplasia of the colon,
Chronic functional abdominal pain,
Colitis,
Colon cancer,
Constipation,
Crohn's disease,
Diarrhea,
Diverticulitis,
Diverticulosis,
Hirschsprung's disease (aganglionosis),
Irritable bowel syndrome,
Polyposis (see also Polyp),
Pseudomembranous colitis,
Ulcerative colitis and toxic megacolon.

Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammatory disease of the large intestine. Only the colon is affected. It is a condition that flares up unpredictably, but patients also experience extended periods of remission. With adequate diet and a focus on minimal stress, the disease can be controlled and managed.

One of the most important aspects to remember about Ulcerative Colitis, is that diet doesn't cause the condition; it is merely a way of making life more comfortable for sufferers. A well-balanced and nutritious diet is very beneficial. Taking supplements can also help to adjust the nutrient intake and prevent the malnutrition that is commonly seen as a result from Ulcerative Colitis.

A healthy diet

As much as anyone else in the population, patients of this disease should aim to follow a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, some dairy, grains and meats. Every person needs calcium for bone and teeth strength, protein for growth and tissue repair, iron for energy and fruits and vegetables for fiber, vitamins and minerals. In Ulcerative Colitis, certain foods can create problems for sufferers.

What might be called an 'Ulcerative Colitis diet' is one that aims not to irritate the colon. The first course of action is to become familiar with the kinds of foods that exacerbate symptoms, and eliminate them as much as possible, if not entirely. Although UC patients do not generally demonstrate intolerances to food, they do report that particular foods intensify their symptoms.

Here is a list of typical foods to eliminate from an Ulcerative Colitis diet:

o Milk products.
o Saturated fats as found in animal products and dairy foods.
o Inflammatory foods such as alcohol, caffeine and refined sugars.
o Intestinal irritants like cabbage, Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower and broccoli.
o Corn products.
o Foods containing gluten, which include foods produced from wheat, barley, triticale and oats.
o The usual allergenic suspects such as eggs, peanuts and soy.
o High-sugar fruits like watermelon, pineapple and grapes.

Beneficial foods

Patients who aim to follow an Ulcerative Colitis diet will benefit in general and not just in a reduction of symptoms and lesser frequency of flare-ups. The foods recommended are good, healthy foods that the general population should be enjoying.

Drink plenty of fluids

Water is the most obvious choice for fluid intake and is essential in calming an inflamed colon. Vegetable juices can help to provide minerals that may be lacking.

Protein

Ulcerative Colitis diet or not, protein is vital for growth and cell repair. Whether it comes from lean meats, dried beans, legumes or soy, protein is a must-have.

Complex carbs

It's recommended that in an Ulcerative Colitis diet, half of the patient's calories should come from complex carbohydrates, such as those found in whole grains, oat bran, fruits and vegetables. Extra sweet fruits should be avoided but berries, oranges, apples, grapefruits and plums are actually considered protective to the colon. Complex carb foods provide an excellent source of vital fiber, which is thought to reduce damage to the intestinal tract that comes with UC.

Fish oils

Oily fish, flaxseed and canola oils contain an abundance of Omega-3 fatty acids which help protect against inflammation.

Potassium

An Ulcerative Colitis diet should include plenty of potassium-rich foods like bananas, avocadoes, oranges, cantaloupes, pears, dried peas and beans, potatoes and nuts. Potassium is an intestine protector and is also thought to reduce the risk of developing kidney stones.

One of the most important things to include in an Ulcerative Colitis diet is water. Patients must drink plenty of water, aim to eat small meals and choose foods that will prevent inflammation of the colon.

Teas with antioxidants are gradually becoming very popular across wide sections of the populace in many parts of the globe. Antioxidants in tea and other herbal drinks are the veritable "secret ingredients" that make these popular drinks so highly valued the world over. These compounds and substances are the agents that enable these beverages to impart their positive health benefits to their drinkers.

Antioxidants are compounds that may help fight and counter the damages caused by free radicals in the body. What are free radicals? Well, these are the harmful by-products and side effects generated by the normal everyday bodily processes that involve oxygen. Since the body requires oxygen at all times to fully function, the body is similarly exposed to the dangerous free radicals produced by the interaction of oxygen with different extraneous variables like bad diet, impure environment, tobacco, and adverse physiological & psychological factors.

When these free radicals are unleashed in the body, they have the potential to wreak havoc on the different organs, tissues and parts of the body by causing conditions that may impair and impede their proper functioning.

To counteract the disastrous effect of these oxidants or free radicals, individuals need to introduce antioxidants to their bodies. These can usually be found in the foods and drinks that people consume through their meals. Since these antioxidants are largely found in plants and crops, diets that are quite heavy on vegetables and greens are more likely to impart these substances to eaters than those that eat a lot of meats and starches.

Teas and herbal tisanes are great sources of antioxidants as they are derived from herbs and plants that are rich in these healthy compounds and substances. Here are a few teas with antioxidants:

Green tea and white tea

Teas have always been included in lists of so-called superfoods or health foods due to their high complement of antioxidants. All true teas come from a single plant - the camellia sinensis plant - which grows in many parts of Asia like China, Japan, India, Sri Lanka and Taiwan. From this plant come several tea varieties. These teas are green tea, white tea, black tea and oolong tea.

Of these, it is believed that white tea and green tea have the greatest concentration of antioxidants due to their having undergone the least amount of oxidation. Less oxidation means that they retain most of the naturally-occurring healthy chemical compounds in them.

EGCG or epigallocatechin gallate is the most dominant form of antioxidant polyphenol found in green tea and white tea. Many studies and researches have been conducted on the possible therapeutic applications of the EGCG antioxidant. Consequently, there have been a lot of promising findings on the potentials of the EGCG antioxidant as a nutritional supplement for fighting a host of ailments and diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, diabetes, HIV infection, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's Disease.

The Chinese and Japanese people have also largely linked green tea to longevity and rejuvenation. White tea, while less known than green tea, have always been popular in certain areas in China and are now getting recognition in wider areas of the globe.

Hibiscus tea

Hibiscus tea is a tart and tangy herbal infusion made from the bright red hibiscus flowers that grow in many tropical countries the world over. This tea is typically drunk either hot or cold.

This herbal drink is believed to contain a host of flavonoids, polyphenolic compounds, mucilage, and anthocyanins that impart a wide variety of health benefits to its drinkers. A recent Taiwanese study conducted in the Chung Shan Medical University has found that these antioxidant compounds were associated with lowering the oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDL), also known as bad cholesterol, which is related to increased risk for heart and cardiovascular diseases.

Furthermore, a 2008 USDA study showed that consuming hibiscus tea lowers blood pressure in a group of pre-hypertensive and mildly hypertensive adults. Data gathered therein support the idea that drinking hibiscus tea in an amount readily incorporated into the diet may play a role in controlling blood pressure, although more research is required.

Hibiscus tea was also observed to possess astringent, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that may help with strengthening the resistance to harmful foreign bodies that cause many ailments and diseases.

This herbal tisane also contains a good amount of vitamin C and other health food nutrients. These compounds along with the aforementioned antioxidant substances were found to impart the hibiscus tea benefits that help stimulate vasodilation, improve the flow of blood and promote urine excretion in individuals who drink this.

Bilberry tea

Bilberry tea is derived from the perennial shrub that's a relative of blueberry, cranberry and huckleberry. Growing to a height of about 16 inches, the bilberry has sharp edged leaves, green branches and black wrinkled berries. The bilberry fruit has the taste and appearance of its cousin, the blueberry.

Bilberry contains antioxidant compounds known as anthocyanosides. These are actually plant pigments that give the fruit its dark blue hue. Anthocyanosides scavenge the free radicals strewn across the body, thus helping prevent or reverse cell damage. Vitamin C is also present in bilberry fruit, itself another antioxidant.

The anthocyanosides are said to be useful for people with vision problems such as night blindness. Anthocyanidins apparently boost the production of rhodopsin, a pigment that improves night vision and helps the eye adapt to light changes. Bilberry has also been suggested as a treatment for retinopathy (damage to the retina) as well as cataracts, but studies are still lacking in these areas.

Antioxidants in bilberry tea have also been shown to help prevent a number of long term illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, and an eye disorder called macular degeneration. These compounds help build strong blood vessels and improve circulation to all areas of the body. They also prevent blood platelets from clumping together (helping to reduce the risk of blood clots), and they have antioxidant properties (preventing or reducing damage to cells from free radicals). Bilberry fruit is also rich in tannins, a substance that acts as an astringent. The tannins have anti-inflammatory properties and may help control diarrhea.

Turmeric tea

Turmeric tea comes from the spice most popularly used on the Indian subcontinent. It is a yellow-colored spice with a mellow, mildly spicy, and somewhat earthy flavoring.

Turmeric's primary active component is a molecule called curcumin. While it is responsible for giving the spice its bright yellow color, it is also a potent antioxidant that acts as a scavenger of free radicals. It is also believed to help inhibit the peroxidation of lipids, as well as to disrupt the progress of aberrant inflammation. It is also thought to help diffuse the deposition of plaque in various circulatory passageways and in vital organs of the body.

Consequently, turmeric tea may help fight a host of serious ailments such as cancers, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer's Disease, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, diarrhea and many more.

Turmeric tea also has anti-fungal and general antiobiotic properties that make it a valuable fighter in warding off diseases caused by viruses, bacteria and microbes.

Rooibos tea

Rooibos tea is a fruity and pleasant-tasting drink that comes from the leaves and stems of the plant Aspalathus linearis which is indigenous to South Africa. Rooibos tea is also known as 'red bush' tea and typically grows on high altitudes.

Of late, rooibos tea has been gaining a lot of attention for a variety of medicinal and clinical purposes. These have largely been attributed to its considerable antioxidant content.

Rooibos tea contains many different antioxidant compounds. The main flavonoids in rooibos tea are aspalathin, rutin, orientin, quercetin, luteolin, and nothofagin. There are also bioactive phenolic compounds such as dihydrochalcones, flavonols, flavanones, flavones, and flavanols. There is also the chrysoeriol flavonoid (luteolin 3'-methyl ether) which is believed to posses its anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-microbial, and anti-viral properties. It is also a source of Superoxide Dismutase or SOD, which is another potent blocker of oxidative damage.

Aside from its abundance of antioxidants, rooibos tea is also popular among health-conscious individuals for its lack of caffeine and its low tannin levels.

Consequently, rooibos tea is believed to be a helpful partner in preventing and fighting against various cancers, cardiovascular ailments, as well as digestive and neural disorders. It has also been widely used to help alleviate infantile colic, allergies, asthma and dermatological problems.

It may thus be a wise decision to regularly drink teas with antioxidants. There are a lot of health benefits that can be derived by taking these teas. And if people want to gain a much healthier body, it would be best to start drinking them now.

So the next time you feel like having a drink of soda or coffee, you might want to go for teas with antioxidants like the ones mentioned above. With these brews, you are virtually assured of getting a refreshing drink, as well as a healthier body.

In Crohn's disease ulcers and inflammation occur deep in the layers of the walls of the intestine. This is concentrated in the second half of the small intestine and first half of the colon. However, rarely, it is found to occur in the upper portions of the stomach and intestine, along with ulcerations in the food pipe, stomach and beginning of the small intestine.

Crohn's disease's helpless victims would be interested in knowing the incredible capabilities of Aloe. After ages of painful abdominal cramps, bleeding, diarrhea, fever, weight loss and several other symptoms you must surely be tired. The last thing you would be want to do is try yet another medication. But aloe vera is a naturally occurring, non-toxic drug without side effects.

Intestine is a very complex organ that serves many functions. It controls allergy and provides immunity against many diseases. Its role in the daily functioning of our body is very important. Therefore it is very important that the intestine is in perfect shape. Our intestine has the fastest growing cells in our body which are replaced once every four days. In order to regenerate them fast enough we require amino acid I-glutamine which is poorly included in our diet.

This is where Aloe vera comes to the rescue. It contains copious amounts of the said compound and helps in repairing the intestine. Aloe vera is famous for its anti-inflammatory properties which are used to relieve abdominal pain caused due to intestinal spasms. It also contains long chain polysaccharides which repair tiny holes that appear in the intestine due to leaking gut syndrome. Complete with vitamins, amino acids, enzymes and minerals aloe vera contains about 200 nutrients that help our body stay in shape. As all the ingredients are natural they are easily processed by our body in promoting good heath.

When it comes to health and well-being, nothing beats natural supplements. With the many benefits they provide as well as the fact that their safe from dangerous synthetic ingredients and chemical compounds that are usually present in lab-manufactured drug components, these health alternatives are highly recommendable for human consumption. Active manuka honey is one example of these natural products with undeniable healing properties.

Here is a list of important facts about active manuka honey.

- A rare type of honey from New Zealand, it is produced by putting up hives on lands where manuka bushes grow. The bees from these hives gather nectar from the flowers of the manuka bushes, hence the product's name.

- It is used to produce manuka honey products that are either ingested or applied topically on skin.

- This honey is believed to have anti-fungal, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, and anti-inflammatory capabilities.

- It can address internal ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers, acid reflux disease, strep throat, eye, ear and sinus infections, cold/flu symptoms, ulcerative colitis, heartburn and indigestion, gastrointestinal disorders, stomach virus, esophagitis, and gum disease.

- It can address external diseases like acne, eczema and dermatitis, wounds and burns, infections, ringworms, nail fungus, athlete's foot, MRSA, skin ulcer, pressure sores, dry skin, and tinea.

- Some of the most well-known honey products from active manuka honey include acne cream, first aid antiseptic lotion, anti-itch cream, antiseptic spray, anti-fungal cream, anti-wrinkle serum, liquid and bar soaps, hand sanitizing gel, mud mask, lozenges, and pain relief cream.

- Not all manuka honey can be considered as active. As for now this cannot be fully explained by science but studies have supported the veracity of this claim. Therefore in purchasing manuka honey products, one must check its UMF rating first.

- UMF or Unique Manuka Factor is a term used to rate how active this honey is.

Nature is truly teeming with many wonders. These wonders aren't always readily noticeable with a naked eye but they are real wonders nonetheless, just like this honey.

This honey has been used for ages in the more indigenous areas of the world. Recently though, with the proliferation of all sorts of manuka honey products, this alternative treatment has attracted the attention of the medical community.

This honey is also used in skin care products due to its incredible benefits. Although research about this natural by-product is not yet exhaustive, more and more medical practitioners are expressing their confidence toward manuka honey based items.

It's noteworthy to say that even though the origin of Kefir and Kefir grains remain shrouded in mystery, the health benefits of consuming these are not. 

Throughout literally the ages, kefir has been known to have "miraculous" health benefits. This is present since the earliest known origin of kefir going back centuries ago, to the people of the Caucasus mountain region, these people, who regularly consume large quantities of kefir, were known for their very long and healthy life spans with little to no diseases. 

Centuries later, USSR scientists are able to procure some kefir from this same region and confirm its health benefits as well. Fast forward to today, countries from all over, such as Norway, Tibet, Sweden, Denmark, Holland, Brazil, South East Asian countries among many many others are manufacturing, researching and confirming these truths as well.

Some of the health benefits kefir is known for are:

1. Antibiotic and antifungal properties


2. Stress relief 


3. Anti-aging 


4. Lowering blood cholesterol and blood pressure


5. Reduces flatulence, correcting irritable bowel disease and fortifying gastric function


6. Treatment of prostate problems in men


7. Treatment of Interstitial cystitis in women


8. Treatment of bladder infection and gastric dysfunction


9. Treatment for liver problems due to hepatic infection


10. Treatment of Ulcerative colitis


11. Prevention or control of Diabetes


12. Treatment of a variety of other conditions, including metabolic disorders, atherosclerosis, and allergies, tuberculosis, cancer, poor digestion, candidiasis, osteoporosis, hypertension, HIV and heart disease.

Based on scientific research, kefir is able to do all these things because it contains trillions and trillions of good or beneficial bacteria. Even though scientific research is unsure of exactly how, the diverse bacteria in kefir are able to perfectly form complex symbiosis with one another resulting in extremely enhanced health benefits compared to each bacteria acting alone.

In addition to this kefir is very rich in vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, amino acids and enzymes. Vitamins such as B2, B12 and vitamin A, K and D. Minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Anti-oxidants, which are present in kefir slows down the aging process. Essential amino acids such as tryptophan, which kefir is also abundant of, are known for its relaxing effect on the nervous system. And the more the good enzymes, the better it is for your stomach. 

In conclusion, there really isn't any other food out there that compares to kefir in terms of its sustenance, nourishing qualities and its health benefits. No wonder they call it the miracle food.

So cheers! Bottom's up to a glass of rejuvenating kefir.

Aloe vera is used as a natural remedy for treatment of grave ailments like ulcerative colitis along with irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn's disease.

Ulcerative colitis is a kind of disease that takes place in the lining of the large intestine and it generally causes inflammation and sores, which is known to us as ulcers. The inflammation occurs in and around the rectum region and in the lower parts of the colon. Ulcerative colitis seldom affects the small intestine except the end section, which is known as the terminal ileum. Ulcerative colitis can also be referred to as colitis or proctitis. This is an irritable bowel syndrome and it is hard to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to another type of intestinal disorder known as Crohn's disease.

Aloe vera is extremely effective in the treatment of the ulcerative colitis. It is generally found in Africa. It is a green plant which is like cactus with long leaves and it comprises of a gel and a yellow residue known as latex. The gel of this plant is the place where all its medicinal values can be found. Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides is the particular area where all its medicinal features can be found. Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides are long chains of sugar molecules that consists of separate glucose sugar molecules and mannose all linked together.

The reason why ulcerative colitis is treated with the help of Aloe vera is simply because it includes Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides or AMP and every tissue, cell and organ of your body is benefitted by it. Primarily the AMP or the Aloe Mucilaginous Polysaccharides is a highly potential anti-inflammatory drug. It tackles directly with the inflammation in the digestive tract and it also helps in the removal of constipation and diarrhea. Aloe vera detoxifies your body by using its intercellular antioxidant and helps in natural repairing and rebuilding of the protective mucosa membrane along the walls which deals with bowels and fixes the damaged tissue from mouth to rectum.

Apart from treating ulcerative colitis, Aloe vera also helps in digestion and better absorption of digested food and also in the better assimilation of absorbed food into the body. It also helps in the restoration and balancing the optimum functioning of the immune system. Due to its incredible medicinal values and properties, it is used in the treatment of colitis, irritable bowel syndrome and crohn's disease and all these ailments are caused due to the inflammation of digestive tract between rectum and intestine. Aloe vera is considered as a natural remedy for the treatment of these diseases.

Those diagnosed with colitis should be aware of and utilise available methods and practices to reduce the occurrence and strength of colitis symptoms, particularly when it can be identified that stress has been a contributory factor. One stress reducing method that should be considered is meditation as it is easy to implement and has wider health benefits.

The exercise of meditation is in reference to the specific state where both the body and mind are conscious, yet are relaxed and focused. The purpose is to achieve a state of both physical and mental calmness to purposely remove stressful, negative thoughts and influences and calming the state of the mind. In a sense it cleanses the mind and allows the uninterrupted focus on one particular thought. Some people require total silence in order to achieve this mental state where all sounds, however small are required to be blocked out. Often this can be very difficult to achieve yet with practice, the mind can be trained to close out any background noise.

In order to undertake effective meditation, you require adopting a comfortable position though it does not have to be the stereotypical straight backed cross leg pose associated with meditation. As long as you are relaxed and comfortable, the mind will be able to focus more easily. Additionally, there is associated with meditation some ritualistic humming. This is used as a means of concentration, to help the person with the same aim of focusing the mind. Again it is not essential that such an action is adhered to. People have different ways of focusing, just as long as the method adopted achieves an intense state of mind focus.

For sufferers of colitis, the occurrence of stress can often bring on symptoms and techniques to reduce these by creating the aura of both physical and mental calmness should be utilised. The process of meditation creates this very state with the added bonus of the requirement to focus on one object. Consider the large colon to be the centre of this focus. While doing this you should be aware of any tension within the large colon and on your body as a whole. Now mentally visualise the release of this tension. Start to imagine the inflammation reducing as the stress and tension floats away. You should feel the release of this and you should find yourself in a refreshed state when your session has ended.

If this action can be incorporated into a daily routine, this will not only be rejuvenating for your mind and body but may also reduce the likelihood of colitis symptoms appearing due to a build up of stress that has no mechanism of release. This should be used as part of effective management to reduce the impact that colitis has yet it is only one method for the reduction of stress in colitis sufferers.

Together cancer of the gullet, stomach, bowel and pancreas are the commonest group of cancers, especially in the sixties onwards but they do occur before then.

Cancer of the colon or rectum is the third most common cancer in men, causing about 8,500 deaths a year.

It is more likely if there is a family history of bowel cancer or in sufferers of ulcerative colitis. Cancer of the pancreas causes 8,000 deaths a year, especially in smokers and diabetics.

Cancer of the gullet or stomach affect an older age group and are more common in smokers.

The symptoms of bowel cancer are a change in bowel habit - for example, unusual constipation or persistent diarrhoea or blood in the motions.

Cancer of the gullet causes difficulty swallowing. Stomach cancer begins as persistent indigestion, upper abdominal pain and loss of appetite, possibly with vomiting of blood.

Pain or weight loss are features of more advanced disease of any of the above.

Cancer of the pancreas is notoriously difficult to diagnose early; it may cause a vague abdominal pain, jaundice - and weight loss.

Prevention

See a doctor if your bowel habit alters for more than two weeks without some good reason. Always take seriously any difficulty in swallowing.

Indigestion beginning for the first time above the age of forty-five should be investigated, even though stomach cancer is relatively uncommon until the sixties.

Never ignore persistent weight loss and loss of appetite.

Treatment

Surgical removal of early bowel and stomach cancers gives excellent long-term results; this is why you should not delay in having any suspicious symptoms investigated.

The outlook for cancer of the gullet and pancreas is much poorer; even so much can be done to relieve discomfort.

Symptoms of GI tract diseases such ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome can be effectively managed through regular consumption of green tea.

Gastrointestinal diseases comprise of a gamut of debilitating conditions that can affect any part of the digestive system. Among the many GI tract diseases, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome are some of the more serious ones. Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are characterized by the presence of inflammation in the digestive tract that leads to ulceration. No inflammation occurs in irritable bowel syndrome which is characterized predominantly by abnormal bowel movements. Symptomatically, all the three lead to improper bowel movements although the former two can cause more severe symptoms such as anemia, rectal bleeding, fever and joint pains.

Research has found that diet plays an important role in controlling ulcerative colitis and other GI tract diseases. Among the many dietary agents, green tea is one that has received considerable scientific attention. Many studies have shown that it has powerful antioxidant activity owing to the presence of tannins such as catechins. These compounds are also said to be responsible for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of green tea were responsible for the reduced levels of inflammation markers in subjects suffering from ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Scientific evidence also exists proving the benefits of green tea in controlling irritable bowel syndrome. Bacterial infection is said to be one of the causes of this syndrome. As an antimicrobial agent, it can be postulated that green tea can prevent bacterial infection in the colon thus decreasing the risk for irritable bowel syndrome. It has been observed that this beverage exerts a protective effect on the gastrointestinal mucosa thus preventing damage and hastening the healing process. Both these are essential in restoring the normal functioning of the bowel in case of irritable bowel syndrome. Moreover since it contains no fiber, the chances of it further irritating the bowel is totally avoided.

Thus, green tea can be said to have preventive and curative properties in GI tract diseases. Green tea consumption gains an edge over the intake of anti-inflammatory drugs that are usually administered in case of colitis and Crohn's disease since it practically elicits no side effects. Its typical taste is liked by many and hence it is certainly not one among the bitter pills to be swallowed! So, if you suffer from any GI tract disease such as ulcerative colitis or irritable bowel syndrome, get your packet of green tea today and manage them effectively.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a term used for a group of illnesses affecting the digestive system. With roughly one million sufferers in the United States, IBD is primarily composed of two disorders: Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis.

What takes place with IBD, Crohn's, and ulcerative colitis is the body's immune system has an exaggerated response to an unknown bacteria or condition of the bowel system, releases a large number of white blood cells to the affected area, and as a result, the area becomes drastically inflamed. This swelling causes ulcerations and injury to the bowel, as well as various other negative side effects.

Although extensive research has been done, it is unclear what causes the excessive immune response in IBD. Some believe it is the body's mistaken identification of good bacteria in the bowel as being dangerous, while others believe it is a foreign agent that triggers the immune system, which in turn, does not shut down properly. Whatever the reason, this is a chronic condition which will continue to be a problem for sufferers for an extended period of time.

The primary difference between Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis is the location of the affected area. Crohn's Disease may affect any portion of the digestive system and may occur in patches, with unaffected areas in between. However, Crohn's Disease primarily affects the end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine. On the other hand, ulcerative colitis only affects the colon. Often, it is very difficult to determine which form of IBD a patient is suffering from and misdiagnosis is common.

Symptoms common of Irritable Bowel Disorder are diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and occasionally weight loss. These signs are often present with Crohn's Disease, as well as uncreative colitis. As a result of blood loss, many sufferers also become anemic. This can be especially devastating to pre-existing conditions. Likewise, complications can arise from blockages that occur due to excessive bowel swelling and the presence of scar tissue. For this reason, surgery is sometimes necessary to remove damaged areas of the digestive system to avoid obstructions. There are also side effects experienced in other areas of the body in addition to the digestive system.

For the most part, IBD and Crohn's Disease are often used interchangeably. However, it should be understood that Irritable Bowel Disorder does not necessarily translate to Crohn's Disease. There are other forms of IBD that may affect sufferers in much the same way.