Tag: InVite Health

GERD and ACID REFLUX

GERD and ACID REFLUX

GERD and ACID REFLUX Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND Next to constipation and diarrhea, one of the most common concerns that people have is stomach acid. This includes GERD or gastroesophageal re-flux disease. Other common concerns that relate to stomach acid include Peptic ulcers, gastritis, and 

Digestive Health Overview

Digestive Health Overview

Digestive Health Overview Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND   Digestive health does not just mean diarrhea or constipation. In fact, while diarrhea or constipation can be a concern by themselves, they are often symptoms of other disorders such as SIBO, IBS, IBD and even diverticulitis. The digestive tract is one 

Hemorrhoids and Veins Hx

Hemorrhoids and Veins Hx

 Hemorrhoids and Veins Hx

Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND

Many people call telling me they have hemorrhoids and/or anal polyps. I always ask people to be specific as to exactly what is going on in their digestive tract. While to most people, hemorrhoids might seem to be the same as polyps, they are not actually the same thing. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum and anus. Polyps are a growth of cells in a clump. While both hemorrhoids and colon polyps can cause rectal bleeding, hemorrhoids are the Number 1 cause. Hemorrhoids can be either internal or external. Symptoms of hemorrhoids include blood in the stool or when you wipe, swelling, pain and itching. It is important to note that even though hemorrhoids are usually not dangerous, if bleeding continues for more than a week it is important to see a doctor. In this blog I will concentrate on hemorrhoids. I will also be concentrating on one of our best products for supporting veins, Veins Hx. My reason for highlighting this product is that in my clinical experience when working with hemorrhoids it is especially important to support our blood vessels. There is much to cover so let us get into it, shall we?

The risk factors for hemorrhoids include having an unhealthy lifestyle. Unhealthy lifestyle habits that can increase the risk of hemorrhoids include being obese, smoking, alcohol intake and low water/fiber intake as well as diet high in fat and meat consumption. Low physical activity is also a risk factor. Constipation is the most common cause of hemorrhoids. Other risk factors can include anal sex, and pregnancy. (11) Having a colonoscopy and or sigmoidoscopy to rule out hemorrhoids. (6) One of the best ways to treat a hemorrhoid is to remove it. However, there are ways to strengthen our veins if hemorrhoids are a concern for you! The best product for this is Veins Hx!

Veins Hx is a formula made of vitamins and herbal extracts that studies have found to be helpful for circulation. What exactly is in Veins Hx? Veins Hx contains Vitamin C, Citrus Bioflavonoids, Horse Chestnut, Horsetail Rush Silica, Gotu Kola and Bilberry! Herbal formulas studied and found to be helpful for hemorrhoids include, Gotu Kola, Horse chestnut and bilberry. (17) As you can see Veins Hx contains all these things!

Let’s start with Vitamin C! What does Vitamin C do for our circulation? To start with studies have found Vitamin C may help to slow down the buildup of atherosclerosis. This is important as it is a risk factor for poor circulation. Additionally, other studies have found that Vitamin C can help keep our arteries flexible, which is important for circulation. Vitamin C also appears to help protect our arteries via its anti-inflammatory properties. (18) Vitamin C has also been found to boost nitric oxide which leads to vasodilation or the “opening up” of the blood vessels. This allows the blood to flow easier through the vessels. (19)

The next item is called Citrus Bioflavonoids. What is a Citrus Bioflavonoid? These are powerful antioxidants that come from citrus foods and have specific benefits to our health. (20) Bioflavonoids are important for circulation because in studies they help to strengthen blood vessel walls. (21) Bioflavonoids are also helpful because they are anti- inflammatory! (22)

Next is Horse Chestnut. Horse Chestnuts are a very well-known therapy for poor circulation. Studies show that after using Horse Chestnut there is an improvement in circulation! (23) Lastly studies have also shown that Horse Chestnut is anti-inflammatory, which is always good for circulation and overall health. (24)

Horsetail Rush Silica, contrary to what you may be thinking, does not actually come from a horse. It comes from the leaves of the horsetail plant and is rich in silica. Recent studies have found that silica can help with circulation. Studies have also recently found that silica can help form collagen, which is a building block of skin, cartilage, blood, connective tissues and even our muscles and ligaments all of which make up our circulatory system. (26)

Gotu Kola may have you squinting for a moment since most people associate it with brain and memory. But think for a moment – why is associated with brain and memory? Because it helps with circulation! Studies have also shown gotu kola to increase overall circulation and blood flow. (27)

Lastly we have Bilberry extract. Bilberry has amazing benefits for our health. According to studies bilberry can help with cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and even reduce the risk of blood clots! Additionally, Bilberry can also help with our blood pressure. Bilberries have also been found to help circulation. And of course we can’t forget the other benefits of Bilberry including our eye health, liver health and even our overall digestive health! (28)

 

What else can you do to help with hemorrhoids?

  • Eliminate constipation! Please see my blog for helpful hints on encouraging healthy bowel movements!
  • Probiotics have been found in studies to be helpful for hemorrhoids. (12, 13) See Invite’s Probiotic Hx and Probiotic Immune!
  • L Glutamine is an amazing amino acid found to be helpful at rebuilding and repairing the digestive tract. Which is why it’s such a favorite for digestive health! (9) Please See Invites GI Maintain and Amino Acid Growth factor powder.

Sources:

  1. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-polyps/symptoms-causes/syc-20352875
  2. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15370-colon-polyps
  3. https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/risk-assessment-screening/genetic-counseling-and-testing/hereditary-cancer-genes-and-hereditary-cancer-syndromes/hereditary-colon-cancer-and-polyposis
  4. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/colon-polyp-cancer-risk/
  5. https://www.gastrohealthpartners.com/identifying-different-types-of-colorectal-polyps/
  6. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hemorrhoids-basics
  7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31859087/
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7146259/
  9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4369670/
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3963320/
  11. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/colon-polyps/eating-diet-nutrition
  12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7438237/
  13. https://www.stlukes-stl.com/health-content/medicine/33/000077.htm#:~:text=Nutrition%20and%20Dietary%20Supplements&text=Probiotics%20%2C%20or%20%22friendly%22%20bacteria,their%20physician%20before%20taking%20probiotics.
  14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6205744/
  15. https://princetonlongevitycenter.com/colon_polyps/
  16. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/sitz-bath
  17. https://www.wnyurology.com/content.aspx?chunkiid=21721#:~:text=Other%20sources%20of%20bioflavonoids%20have,symptoms%20as%20compared%20to%20placebo.
  18. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/vitamin-c-ascorbic-acid#:~:text=Other%20studies%20suggest%20that%20vitamin,potential%20results%20of%20having%20atherosclerosis
  19. https://texaseva.com/posts/news/ask-the-vein-doctors-why-is-it-good-to-take-vitamin-c/
  20. https://www.swansonvitamins.com/blog/articles/what-are-citrus-bioflavonoids.html
  21. https://restorevein.com/blog-bioflavonoids-benefits-for-vein-health.html#:~:text=The%20results%20in%20increased%20%E2%80%9Cleakiness,the%20function%20of%20the%20vessels
  22. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6431442/
  23. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23152216/
  24. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0102695X15001003
  25. https://www.digicomply.com/dietary-supplements-database/horsetail
  26. https://get-nourished.com/blogs/nourished/the-benefits-of-silica
  27. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/gotu-kola
  28. https://www.medicinenet.com/10_emerging_health_benefits_of_bilberries/article.htm

 

 

IBS and IBD

IBS and IBD

IBS and IBD Written by Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND  A question I am often asked is, “what is the difference between Irritable Bowel Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome?” Aren’t they the same? Well not really. While both are digestive conditions involving irritation in our digestive 

SIBO and Diverticulitis  

SIBO and Diverticulitis  

SIBO and Diverticulitis   Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND In this blog I wanted to talk about 2 conditions that may not seem related at 1st glance but are more closely related than you may think! These conditions are diverticulitis and SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth). In both 

Constipation and Diarrhea

Constipation and Diarrhea

Constipation and Diarrhea

Dr. Claire Arcidiacono, ND 

Every week I get calls asking about how to deal with digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhea. In fact, constipation and diarrhea are the 2 most common concerns that people have when it comes to health. But what is constipation? What is diarrhea? Constipation refers to less than 3 bowel movements (BMs) a week. In contrast diarrhea is when there is frequent BMs that usually consist of thin or loose watery stools. From a holistic viewpoint, it is best to have a daily BM. One that is not too loose or too hard.

How do you know if you are suffering from constipation or diarrhea? It may seem obvious but let me break it down for you. Symptoms of constipation include having only a few BMs a week, having a BM every other day as well as straining to have a BM is also considered constipation. Other signs of constipation include gas, bloating, anal itching, bloody stool, stomach pain as well as nausea/vomiting and the stool itself hard/small. What about diarrhea? In addition to causing frequent thin/watery stool, diarrhea can cause stomach bloating stomach/intestinal cramps, nausea, vomiting or a feeling of urgency to have a BM. Long term diarrhea can also cause what is called anal leakage as well as a decrease in the natural “urge” to have a BM or the feeling you get when you are about to have a BM. Diarrhea can cause a painful irritation of the skin to occur.

What can cause constipation or diarrhea to occur? Oftentimes they are a symptom of different underlying systemic conditions. For example, thyroid disorders and pregnancy can affect BMs. Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease or Multiple Sclerosis can also affect our BMs. Even diabetes and Lupus can affect BMs. Medications often cause constipation or diarrhea as a side effect. For example, it is well known that antibiotics can trigger diarrhea. On a serious note, changes in BMs can be a sign of colon cancer. Just like many different medical concerns, constipation and diarrhea can be caused by or exacerbated by stress.  An overgrowth of pathogens can also lead to either constipation or diarrhea. These pathogens can include Candida as well as bacteria and parasites. Even food allergies and digestive disorders such as Celiac disease and Lactose intolerance can affect BMs. Disorders of the GI tract such as IBS, Diverticular Disease, Lazy Bowel Syndrome, or structural defects can also affect the frequency of BMs. Other digestive disorders that can affect our BMs include gallbladder disorder. While this is not every cause of constipation or diarrhea it is a list of the most common causes.

When addressing constipation and diarrhea it is especially important to rule out any systemic concerns. The following suggestions are things that have been found to be helpful in combating constipation and even diarrhea.

  • Address any underlying medical concerns and eliminate any food sensitivitiesor allergies. This is important for both constipation and diarrhea! Increase water to half your body weight in ounces. If you weigh 200 pounds you need to drink 100 ounces (12.5 cups) of water. Every 8 ounces of water is 1 cup.
  • Add fiberto your diet! Fiber is naturally found in fruits and vegetables. These are a great jump start for your digestive tract. Maltodextrin has been found to help combat constipation Psyllium seed husk has also been found to help constipation. Interestingly fiber has also been found to help reduce the risk of diarrhea! Please see Invite’s Colon Hx as well as Invite’s new Inulin fiber gummy.
  • Garlic has been found in studies to help eliminate bacteria and fungus such as Candida. Garlic can even help fight different parasites! This is important for both constipation and diarrhea! See Invite Health’s Aged Garlic and Probiotic for women!
  • Olive Leaf Extract has been found to help eliminate microbes such as yeast in the body. It is also helpful for bad bacteria! Once again this is important for both constipation and diarrhea. See InVite Health’s Olive Leaf Extractand our Renalaid
  • Probioticshelp to kill bad bacteria and help colonize new healthy bacteria. Please see Invite’s Probiotic Hx and Probiotic Immune!
  • Triphala fruit complex has been found to help promote BMs. See InVite Health’s Colon Hx.
  • Marshmallow Root and Slippery Elm have also been found to help inflammation in our digestive tract. InVite Health’s GI Maintainhas both and can easily be mixed into any drink! These great nutrients are also found in Invite’s Min Acid formula!
  • Magnesium Citrate is one of the best supplements to help constipation. It is a natural, non-habit-forming stool softener. See InVite Health’s Magnesium Citrate, and Bioavail Magnesium Complex.
  • Omega 3s have also been found to help lubricate the stool. See InVite Health’s Fish Oiland Krill Oil Advanced.
  • Digestive enzymes are helpful when there is any issue with digesting our food. Problems digesting our food can lead to concerns such as gas/bloating and diarrhea! Please see Invite Health’s Digestive Hx and Prozyme digest.
  • Following the BRAT DIETis helpful for your stomach after experiencing an episode of diarrhea: Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.

Sources:

  1. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-constipation
  2. https://www.humnutrition.com/blog/candida-overgrowth/
  3. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4059-constipation
  4. https://greatist.com/health/maltodextrin-dangers#:~:text=It%20improves%20digestion,fiber%20supplements%20Metamucil%20and%20Citrucel.
  5. https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/psyllium#:~:text=Many%20well%2Ddesigned%20studies%20have,%2C%20Europe%2C%20and%20North%20America.
  6. https://www.healthline.com/health/flaxseed-for-constipation
  7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21830350/
  8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458355/
  9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5490280/#:~:text=The%20present%20study%20focused%20on,infections%20such%20as%20oral%20thrush.
  10. https://www.omnibioticlife.com/candida-and-probiotics/#:~:text=Certain%20probiotic%20strains%2C%20such%20as,good%20bacteria%20in%20your%20intestine.
  11. https://www.ndtv.com/food/triphala-for-constipation-how-to-use-this-ayurveda-wonder-to-manage-digestive-issues-1912465
  12. https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/herbal-remedies-for-constipation
  13. https://www.wellandgood.com/natural-remedies-for-constipation/
  14. https://omega3innovations.com/blog/fish-oil-and-fiber-how-to-be-number-one-at-number-two/
  1. https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/digestive-diseases-diarrhea
  2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/diarrhea
  3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3150032/
  4. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-rid-of-diarrhea-fast#rice-water
  5. https://www.healthline.com/health/brat-diet
  6. https://www.healthline.com/health/foods-that-cause-diarrhea#food-and-diarrhea
  7. https://www.healthline.com/health/probiotics-and-digestive-health
  8. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-39644-x
  9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21830350/
  10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4458355/
  11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5490280/#:~:text=The%20present%20stud
  12. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/digestive-enzymes-and-digestive-enzyme-supplement
  13. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.1008464/full