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12 \ CONNECT digestive + health DEBUNKING Digestive Myths Because the digestive system is in charge of breaking down and distributing nutrients while dismissing waste from our bodies, it's one of the most important aspects of health. However, many myths surround digestive health. Allow connect to help you sift through some fables and distinguish between fact and fiction. Eeating spicy foods causes ulcers. MYTH: While spicy foods can certainly aggravate ulcer symptoms, the fiery foods themselves do not cause ulcers to develop. The culprits behind most stomach ulcers are either bacterial infections or the overuse of pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. Beans make you gassy. FACT: Because beans are an incredible source of fiber, they do carry the reputation and can indeed make you flatulent after consumption. Beans also contain sugars and starches that are not entirely digested by enzymes in the small intestine and cause excess gas. Other common foods that have a reputation for causing flatulence include broccoli, cabbage, raw apples and dairy products. Reduce flatulence by taking an over-the-counter product, draining and rinsing canned or soaked beans, and cooking and eating these foods with fennel, lemongrass, dill, oregano, rosemary, cilantro, bay leaf, ginger, cinnamon or cumin. Yogurt improves digestive health. MORE RESEARCH NEEDED: While we'd love to file yogurt's claim to provide "good" digestive bacteria into either the "myth" or "fact" folders, more research is needed. A recent study, published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, however, did find that the addition of microbes in yogurt assists in the process of digesting complex carbohydrates. This suggests that the extra aid in processing carbohydrates may help ease constipation and bloating and potentially lessen symptoms of certain digestive conditions. However, as stated earlier, more research is necessary. If you are considering changing your diet to help improve your digestive health, always consult your primary care physician or a gastroenterologist first. To find a physician, visit RedmondHealth.com and click on "Need a Doctor?" or call MedLine at 800-242-5662. Emotional stress significantly impacts digestive health. By identifying and removing major stressors in your life, or finding a coping mechanism, such as exercise or meditation, you can greatly reduce your discomfort. Signs and Symptoms We all experience digestive issues from time to time. Learn how to identify signs and ways you can help alleviate symptoms. • Bloating and gas—Take note of the foods you eat. Try over-the-counter digestive medicines, such as Beano® or a lactose supplement, and speak with your physician about food concerns, such as suspicion for lactose intolerance or gluten allergies. • Constipation—Drink more water, eat more fiber and incorporate a daily walk into your routine. • Heartburn—Avoid lying down soon after eating. Eat smaller, more frequent meals and speak with your physician about antacids and other treatments that can help. • Nausea and vomiting—Avoid strong smells that vex you and nibble on crackers before rising from bed in the morning. Also, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Seek medical attention if symptoms continue or worsen.