Published by Healthline https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/ibs-and-exercise Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder of the large intestine. It’s a chronic condition, which means it requires long-term management. Common symptoms include: abdominal pain cramping bloating excess gas constipation or diarrhea or both mucus in the stool fecal incontinence These symptoms often come and go. They may last for days, weeks, or months. When you experience symptoms, it’s called an IBS flare-up. IBS can interfere with daily life. There also isn’t a cure. However, for some people, certain lifestyle habits can help manage symptoms. This includes regular physical activity. Exercise is thought to [...]

Adapted from IFFGD Publication #191 by Debbie Zeichner, LCSW, BCD, Los Angeles, CA. https://aboutibs.org/treatment/psychological-treatments/relaxation-techniques-for-ibs/ You’ve been to a healthcare provider and you’ve had all of the tests. The diagnosis you’ve been given is irritable bowel syndrome or IBS… now what? Your health care provider may have suggested that your IBS is “stress-related.” In no way does this mean that your symptoms are “all in your head.” Rather, your healthcare provider is referring to the ways in which the brain and digestive system communicate and interact with each other, commonly referred to as the “brain-gut connection.” In response to either a [...]

Published by Very Welll Health https://www.verywellhealth.com/phone-apps-for-managing-ibs-5090428 The months after receiving a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a confusing and overwhelming time. Some people with IBS have dealt with symptoms for years without knowing the cause or how to manage it. They may have tried many different lifestyle changes, diets, and even medications without hitting on the right combination for their symptoms. People with IBS are not a monolith; the symptoms and how they lead to lowering quality of life are different for each person. That’s why using health apps that are meant for people who don’t live [...]

Medically Reviewed by Nayana Ambardekar, MD https://www.webmd.com/ibs/diet-solution-ibs If you have IBS-C, you may be concerned about what to eat. You need to keep a balanced diet while you avoid foods that trigger symptoms for you. Try a few simple tips to make your diet work better for you. Keep a Symptom Journal An IBS symptom journal can help you and your doctor figure out which foods may trigger your symptoms. Make a habit of writing down any symptoms you might have, along with what and how much you ate beforehand. If you see a pattern with certain foods, see if [...]

March is National Nutrition Month and National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! This issue of our newsletter has tips on those topics, plus stress relief for better sleep and the latest on telemedicine. Marpai (Mar-pay), your employer health plan services provider, delivers SMART Health Insights every month to help you feel great and live well through better health. With tips for better physical and mental wellness, highlights of exciting new health technology products, and news from Marpai, it’s designed to help improve your health journey.

Telemedicine, which enables video or phone appointments between a patient and their health care practitioner, benefits both health and convenience. More health care providers are offering to “see” patients by computer and smartphone.

In a recent national survey, 44 percent of adults said stress had caused sleepless nights at least once in the previous month. All that tossing, turning and staring at the ceiling can leave you feeling tired and more stressed the next day. If you’re caught in this vicious cycle of anxiety and insomnia, there’s good news: Simple stress relief techniques can help you sleep better and feel calmer.

“Let thy food be thy medicine,” said Hippocrates (a long, long time ago), but the sentiment still rings true. National Nutrition Month, celebrated in March, stresses the importance of a balanced diet and exercise. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics promotes the transformative powers of healthy food choices. The Academy encourages using a registered dietitian in order to develop and stick with a healthy eating plan.

For people at average risk The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many elective procedures being put on hold, and this has led to a substantial decline in cancer screening. Health care facilities are providing cancer screening during the pandemic with many safety precautions in place. Learn how you can talk to your doctor and what steps you can take to plan, schedule, and get your regular cancer screenings in Cancer Screening During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

It’s American Heart Month, a time when everyone can focus on their cardiovascular health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States and the disease accounts for 1 in 4 deaths annually. This issue of SMART Health Insights brings you simple things you can do to take an active role in reducing your risk and staying heart healthy.