The path food takes in the body, in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, starts with the mouth and ends with the anus (rectum). The GI tract is divided into two main sections: the upper GI tract and the lower GI tract. The upper GI tract is generally considered to be the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and finally the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). The lower GI tract runs from the small intestine to the large intestine (colon) to the anus. Let’s take a look at these sections of the ... [Read More]
digestive health
What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
We all have the occasional stomach ache or gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort. But if the problem becomes persistent or the pain gets worse, it’s time to seek a medical evaluation – it may be an issue in the intestines, or bowels. The two most frequently diagnosed types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Let’s take a deeper look into these two conditions, what they are, and how they can be treated. Types of Inflammatory Bowel Disease The two main ... [Read More]
10 Austin Gastro Physicians Named “Top Doctors” by Austin Monthly Magazine
Each year, Austin Monthly magazine publishes its list of Top Doctors in Austin. The list of physicians recognized in the list come from nearly specialty in town, from Allergy & Immunology all the way through Vascular Surgery. Of the thirteen Gastroenterologists named in the 2019 list, Austin Gastroenterology physicians nabbed ten spots. Austin Monthly partners with a group called Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., a healthcare research company, to determine their list of Top Doctors. Austin ... [Read More]
Do Processed Foods Cause Gastrointestinal Disorders?
It may surprise no one that the foods we eat (and don’t eat) affect the way our digestive system functions. For example, too much bread and not enough fiber can lead to constipation rather quickly. If your diet has consistently been undersupplied of certain proteins, minerals, or other needed nutrients, it can create disorder in your system. This isn’t just a problem for your digestive system; it can also cause problems with your skin, immune system, and respiratory system. Common causes of ... [Read More]
Is Gut Bacteria Causing Your Health Problems?
We all know the contributions that heart health, dental hygiene and physical fitness play in a healthy lifestyle. While all of these are definitely important, rarely is gut health a topic of conversation. Most of us know now that there are good bacteria and bad bacteria. Gut bacteria are the good guys that impact important components of your health – from digestion to the immune system. When we have too little or too much gut bacteria, this can adversely affect our health and wellness and could ... [Read More]