Virtua Health Gastroenterologist Dr Krysta Johns-Keating, MD, discussed gut health, keeping our digestive track moving as we overindulge Gas is normal, but any change should be reported. She stressed these symptoms should always be brought to a health professional: blood in stool, unexplained weight loss and chronic acid reflux starting after 60. She offered ways to stay healthy, don’t over eat, avoid processed foods and eat vegetables and fruit, don’t lie down after a big meal, exercise and get a colonoscopy. She adds that 45 is the new recommended age to begin and that African Americans are at higher risk at a younger age. Dr Johns-Keating promised that preparation for the test is not as extreme as it used to be, and it’s the gold standard for discovering and removing pre-cancerous polyps. We also discussed women who present different issues, thanks to hormones and sharing space with reproductive organs. She reminds us, if you have concerns, talk to your doctor and see a gastroenterologist, adding, ‘We hear it ALL! We are not embarrassed. We have these conversations all the time!’
For more information about gut health and healthy tips, as well as to book an appointment, go to VIRTU.org/GutHealth.