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ULCERATIVE COLITIS (UC) A chronic condition in which the lining of your colon is infl amed and develops tiny ulcers. A person with UC may have persistent diarrhea, bloody stool or cramping and abdominal pain. CROHN'S DISEASE This also results in ulcers and infl ammation, but the problems occur anywhere along the digestive tract. Crohn's disease does not a— ect the entire area equally, so some areas of the intestine can be infl amed while others are healthy. Symptoms include abdominal pain, anemia, diarrhea, fatigue and weight loss. CELIAC DISEASE This occurs when the body does not tolerate gluten (a wheat protein). When someone with celiac disease eats any amount of gluten, his or her immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine that normally absorbs nutrients. This can lead to bloating, diarrhea, fatigue and malnutrition. Many people with celiac disease show no symptoms. GO WITH YOUR We've all overeaten at times and felt terrible for a few hours. But, what if stomach discomfort is a daily occurrence? Learn more about these chronic stomach issues. What you don't know can hurt you. Learn the di" erences between gastrointestinal problems for your stomach's sake. DIVERTICULOSIS This occurs when small pouches (called diverticula) form in the colon and bulge outward. Common in older adults, diverticula can also become irritated and cause a di— erent condition, diverticulitis. Many patients with diverticulosis have no symptoms, although rectal bleeding may occur. IRRITABLE BOWL SYNDROME (IBS) IBS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including constipation, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Other conditions, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, depression and anxiety, often occur with IBS. If you think you may have one of these conditions, talk with your physician. No matter the cause of your stomach problems, changes to your diet can be helpful in controlling symptoms — for example, those with celiac disease should eliminate gluten, and a high-fi ber diet can prevent or improve many gastrointestinal diseases. Medications to control symptoms or reduce infl ammation may also be recommended. ✚ Upset Stomach Do's and Don'ts No one enjoys an upset stomach, especially one brought on by questionable eating choices or a reaction to food. However, certain practices can make you feel better or much worse. DON'T drink milk. For many years, physicians recommended patients drink milk to soothe ulcer symptoms. However, research now shows milk can actually increase stomach acid production. DO get hydrated. If you have vomited, water alone may not replace the fl uid you've lost, and beverages such as fruit juice or soda can further upset your stomach. Dilute fruit juice or soda with water, or sip an electrolyte-replacing sports drink. DON'T skip the fi ber. If you're constipated, try high-fi ber foods, such as cherries, raisins, apricots and prunes, before reaching for medicine. DO eat bland foods. When you're recovering from food poisoning, eat like a BRAT: Bananas, rice, applesauce or toast can provide a much-needed energy boost without irritating your stomach. Before making any changes to your diet, contact your physician. To find a physician near you, visit findachristusdoc.org. christussantarosa.org | Summer 2016 EATING WELL 10