What is Celiac Disease?

All traditional breads and wheat products contain gluten.

Celiac disease effects 1 in 133 Americans. (source.) It’s a genetic disease that creates an intolerance to the gluten protein; the body cannot properly absorb it and “acts out.” We see many patients with chronic diarrhea, bloating and some weight loss. Some with Celiac disease may have malnutrition or slight weakness, others have no gastrointestinal symptoms. It really depends on the patient.

Those who have a gluten intolerance cannot consume foods with gluten (or even foods cooked near gluten, or on cookware that’s previously made something with gluten.) If someone does have Celiac disease yet does NOT follow a gluten-free diet, they are at a much greater risk for later developing a gastrointestinal cancer.

What’s a Gluten-Free Diet?

Almost all of the complications with Celiac disease can be managed by following a strict gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all wheat, rye, oat and barley products – in addition to many processed foods, which may also contain hidden traces of gluten. While following a gluten-free diet is a dramatic lifestyle change initially, growing numbers of Celiacs who feel better and look great show that it can be done. Plus, several food manufacturers are making gluten-free products, and restaurants are joining in, too, to offer g-free menu items.

Gluten-Free in Kansas City

If you’re in the Kansas City area, we’ve got a few great resources for you around town. Invest in a few gluten-free cookbooks and spend some time searching for blogs if you need tips for cooking at home. You can also check out our Pinterest boards for g-free recipe ideas. But, if you’re out in KC or looking for some gluten-free bakeries, see below for a few ideas:

Gluten-Free Products in Kansas City:

Hy-Vee stores offer a large gluten-free selection.

Tony’s Market in Warrensburg also offers gluten-free products (and menu items in the deli.)

Whole Foods (search for the Whole Foods nearest you)

Trader Joes (search for products with the “no gluten” symbol)

Natures Pantry in Independence, MO (large selection of gluten-free products)

Brody’s Bakery (in KC)

Kneaded Specialties (in Lee’s Summit)

Great Gluten-Free Restaurant Options in Kansas City:

Waldo Pizza, Spin Pizza & Minskys Pizza all offer gluten-free options

Plaza options could include Blanc Burgers, Eden Alley, Jack Stack, Avenues Bistro Brookside

Crossroads/River Market area:  Blue Bird Bistro, Farmhouse, LuLus Thai Noodles, One More Cup, Beer Kitchen, La Bodega

Popular Restaurants/Chains:  First Watch, Chipotle, On the Border, Garozzos, Salty Iguana

For more info or to see if you’re favorite restaurant has gluten-free options, check out this great Gluten-Free finder!

Did we miss any? Leave us a comment if you know of more gluten-free choices around Kansas City!

We hear tips from patients from time to time on what got them through colonoscopy prep and the procedure. We’ll keep updating our list as we hear more, but here are a few starters:

Colonoscopy Prep Tips

• Eat a pasta dinner the day before “prep day.” (This is actually 2 days before your actual test.) On “prep day,” you need to follow a clear liquid diet so your colon is cleaned out for the procedure. A large pasta dinner the night before you fast will help you stay fuller into the next day when you cannot eat solid foods.
• Invest in Scott’s Flushable Wipes. The night before your test you will be …. visiting the bathroom frequently. After awhile your bum might become sore and sensitive. Using Scott’s flushable wipes can help lesson irritability and make some of those last trips to the restroom less uncomfortable.
• Plan on reading material. Just go ahead and plan on spending some considerable time the bathroom the night before your colonosocpy. Buy a magazine, download a new app or start a new book. Put something in the bathroom so when the “gotta go” urge hits, you actually look forward to continuing whatever it is you were reading.
• Wear sweatpants … or at least go belt-less. You’re going to want an elastic waist pant as you’re preparing for your colonoscopy. That’s pretty self-explanatory.

Check out some of these great ideas we’ve seen from Pinterest pinners re-using toilet paper rolls in creative ways!

Midwest Gastroenterology on Pinterest

Speaking of Pinterest – check out our boards!

We’ve joined the club and are looking for all of the top ideas on bathroom designs, ways to use toilet paper, ideas for relieving tummy troubles, healthy eating…. and more.

Re-Using Toilet Paper Rolls | Celebrating Earth Day (GI-style)

Check out some of these awesome ways to reuse toilet paper rolls. From crafts to gardening and home organization, it’s amazing how those small brown tubes can serve more than one purpose!

Source: freepreschoolcrafts.com via Midwest on Pinterest

Source: alisaburke.blogspot.com via Midwest on Pinterest

Heartburn Can Cause Cancer

Basically … are you ready for this … your heartburn can cause cancer. Yep, that’s right. Heartburn (or acid reflux) CAN cause cancer. That’s why it’s one of the fastest growing cancers in the country.

When you experience heartburn, you have the potential of exposing the cells of your esophagus to stomach acid, an exposure that can change your cellular makeup and mutate into esophageal cancer. If you experience heartburn more than two times over the course of several weeks, it’s important to see a doctor to evaluate your risks and condition. Several who experience heartburn have a condition called Barrett’s Esophagus, which places them at an even higher risk of disease.

Just because you have heartburn doesn’t mean you’re going to get esophageal cancer. However it’s important to listen to your body and take note of any reflux that you experience. Esophageal cancer is often undetected and diagnosed in later stages because of the lack of education surrounding it. By speaking with your physician about your frequent heartburn, you could be saving your life.

How To Determine Your Risk of Esophageal Cancer

You might be taken in for an upper endoscopy (EGD) to more accurately determine your risk and access your situation. This will allow the physician to get a good view of the upper area of your GI tract, and especially your esophagus. Endoscopy isn’t only used to assess the risk and threat of heartburn, but it’s also the procedure used to discover esophageal cancer. Endoscopy allows you to be proactive about your health, and if there is a problem, catch it early.

We have brave patients who’ve survived esophageal cancer and live to say: don’t let your heartburn go! Make sure to request an appointment with a doctor today if you’re experiencing chronic heartburn!

Learn More:

Esophageal Cancer Action Network (ECAN)

American Cancer Society: Esophagus Cancer

What is IBS?

If you’re unfamiliar with IBS, its long name is Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The Digestive Health Alliance explains the symptoms and characteristics well:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects up to one in five Americans. It is a condition that is characterized by gut symptoms including abdominal pain, intestinal gas/wind, bloating, and changed bowel habit (ranging from diarrhea to constipation). Symptoms can often be debilitating and lead to a reduced quality of life.

We’ve met many patients that can attest to this!

Why an IBS Month?

We love that the Digestive Health Alliance is taking time out to put emphasis on this uncomfortable condition. Not just to take action and get research and legislation passed, but from our gastroenterology clinic‘s perspective, to help people feel better. If you’re in the Kansas City area and think you might have IBS, here are a few local action steps for you this month:

• If you’ve never been officially diagnosed with IBS but often deal with “belly issues,” see a doctor this month!
• Have IBS? Learn how to eat IBS-friendly meals.
• Learn the symptoms & triggers of IBS.
• Sign up for a clinical trial for IBS at our Midwest Center for Clinical Research in the Kansas City area

As we begin to prepare ourselves to turn the calendar page over and make plans for April, here are a few lasting thoughts until next year’s colon cancer awareness month:

1. Colon Cancer is Preventable.

Colon cancer is actually a cancer you can PREVENT. And we don’t just mean by eating healthy and not smoking. We mean a colonoscopy can find a polyp and the doctor can remove it before it becomes cancer. Few other cancers get this bragging right.

2. Colon Cancer is Prevented with Colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is the surest way to prevent colon cancer. If you’re over 50 and have not had one, please come see us. (If you’re African American, screening starts at 45 for you.) If you have a family history and experience signs or symptoms of colon cancer, you really need to come see us. Don’t put it off.

3. Colonoscopy REALLY Isn’t that Bad.

You may have heard the horror stories, but it’s really not that bad. Watch our colonoscopy videos to see for yourself – it’s do-able and you can easily live through it!

4. Number #1 Symptom is NO SYMPTOM AT ALL.

Colon cancer can be very sneaky. There are common signs and symptoms. However, the number one symptom is no symptom at all. Many colon cancer survivors have claimed they never experienced any of the typical symptoms. This is why preventative checkups for early detection is absolutely key.

5. Our Gastroenterologists Are Nice.

Our team of gastroenterologists at Midwest Gastroenterology are the best. They’re nice guys, they make talking about your poo a comfortable subject, and they’ll make sure you’re treated well while you’re with us.

Try ordering smaller portions of red meat, drinking less wine and adding in more fiber-rich veggies the next time you are out to eat!

Fiber-Rich Foods

Fiber-rich foods help your digestive system function properly. Most people should eat around 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day. High fiber diets also help decrease constipation, heart disease and diabetes.

By replacing some of your daily snacks with fiber-rich foods you are greatly reducing the amount of fats and sugars that you regularly intake. And the great news is that foods high in fiber are actually easily accessible.

Here are some examples of quick and easy high fiber foods:

• Raspberries
• Apples With Skin
• Whole Wheat Spaghetti
• Peas
• Black Beans
• Artichokes
• Broccoli

Red Meats

Let’s face it, as Americans, red meats and dinner usually go hand-in-hand. From steaks, to hamburgers, tacos or even meatballs in our spaghetti, it is hard to stay away from eating red meat in a majority of our meals. The AICR suggests that meat should be limited to 18 ounces a week. Eighteen ounces can easily be divided into five to seven small portions of meat per week.

White Meat

If you are still looking to keep meat in your diet there are many great alternative choices. Two of the most alternative options are using ground turkey to replace any ground beef, and replacing some of your normal red meat dishes with chicken. Turkey and chicken are great replacements because they are low in fat, a great source of protein and are usually a lot cheaper than most red meats.

Alternatives

Want to cut out a majority of your meat intake? Try looking into other high-protein options, such as tofu or nuts. You may need some time before you fall in love with these alternatives, but trying them in small quantities can actually help you grow an affection toward them in the long run. Not only are they packed with good proteins, they also are the number one way to reduce your cholesterol levels.

Alcohol

Because excess fat, especially around the waist line can greatly increase chances for colon cancer, diet and exercise are always a good practice. Another way to reduce the waist line bulge is to cut back on alcoholic beverages. When alcohol is digested one of the compounds produced is fat. This fat is then carried through bloodstream and usually ends up in the gut or the waist line.

The more alcohol you intake, including that glass of red wine you drink every night (for your heart, of course!), the harder it is for your body to fight off the excess fat that accumulates. So while exercising may be a good solution, it isn’t the best solution until you change your diet, which includes decreasing your alcohol intake.

The next time you are out at a nice restaurant and are tempted to order a large glass of wine with your extra large steak, try looking for a more “colon-friendly” option. March is National Colon Cancer Awareness month, take the initiative and spread the word on healthy eating changes. The more people who begin to change their eating habits, the healthier our nation will become.

There are many excuses for not wanting to get a colonoscopy, but none of these excuses hold much merit.

The Top Five Excuses for putting-off a colonoscopy: Busted!

1. It Won’t Happen To Me.

Many people think that just because cancer has not run in their family that they will not be at risk. Colon cancer is one of the top three deadliest cancers in the United States.

More than genetics, high fat diets and an unhealthy lifestyle are actually the biggest factors in an increased risk of colorectal cancer. With that said, you can still be at risk even if it doesn’t run in the family.

2. It Will Pass.

Many people have digestive issues and like to blame it on other factors. Some try changing their diet or going gluten free for a period of time to see if symptoms go away, and while your bowel issues may be due to a dietary habit, you won’t know for sure unless you actually get checked.

The longer you go without being checked, hoping that the symptoms will just “go away” the more you are increasing your risk for having a polyp turn into something worse, like colon cancer. If you have any abnormal digestion issues, consult a gastroenterologist before trying to self-diagnose. Having a professional opinion might actually save your life.

3. I am Afraid of the Cleanse.

Yes, we know all about it, the colon cleansing process can be intimidating. But trust us, it is not nearly as bad as it seems. In fact, we actually had one of our own patients put together a video of the process before her last colonoscopy. Check out this video to get more insight into what actually happens before, during and after the cleanse.

4. I Just Turned 50, I Still Have More Time Right?

It is highly suggested that once you turn 50 you have regular colonoscopies. But, many people wait till they are in their 60′s to get their first one. The thought of a colonoscopy can be scary for some people and so they put it off as long as possible. But, putting it off can make matters worse. Many people don’t get a colonoscopy until it is already too late.

5. I Don’t Have Any Symptoms.

Even if you do not have any symptoms, if you are older than 50, you still need to get a colonoscopy. Having a polyp in your colon may not be noticeable at all. You could still go about your daily life and have no digestion issues but still have polyps forming in your colon. You could be the most healthy person you know, but if you are over 50, you should still take the time to get a colonoscopy.

This month encourage those around you to have their routine colonoscopy done. Let’s combat these excuses together and help save lives!

Foods that are high in fat, like fast-food hamburgers, can increase your risk of colon cancer.

The Study

The study tested colon tissue from colon cancer patients and colon tissue from cancer free patients. The tissue from the colon cancer patients all showed high levels of insulin stored in the colon.

Normally when a person eats carbohydrates and foods rich in amino acids, the colon breaks them down. Instead of breaking down the carbs, for the colon cancer patients, the colon actually produced higher levels of insulin. Carbohydrates, lipids and amino acids are all very present in high-fat diets.

What is most alarming about this finding is the reality that cancer cells thrive off of insulin because it helps tumors increase in size.

Healthy Living

There are many people who have been diagnosed with colon cancer who have lived perfectly healthy lives. And there are other people who eat the worst foods in the world and will never have colon cancer. But, eating the right foods can help you greatly reduce the risk of having colon cancer.

It is said that America is a fast-food nation. And to a certain degree, that is true. We like things fast and convenient, and food is no exception.

High fat foods are changing our genes and creating more insulin to be pumped through the body. The only way to stop this from occurring is to reduce your intake of foods that are high in fat.

Meals

If you are wanting to make the change to a low-fat diet, it is actually a lot easier than you might think. You can also individualize your eating plan, because health food is not “one-size fits all.”

The first step in proper meal planning is to cut back on fast food. If you are married or have kids, try cooking together as a family. And instead of picking up a box meal at the grocery store, add in a few of these low-fat favorites:

• Salmon or Tuna
• Colorful fruits and vegetables
• Whole wheat pasta
• Olive oil
• Herbs and spices
• Nuts and seeds

Exercise

Another way to improve your health and to help your body better break down foods is to remain active. Maybe a marathon seems a little overwhelming to you, so why not try a 5k? Don’t like running, give racquetball a try at your local gym.

Whatever you do, find something that fits your lifestyle and your schedule. Exercising doesn’t have to be something you obsess about, but you should be able to find something you enjoy.

If you need a little motivation, ask a friend to be your work-out buddy. Having a friend by your side will keep you more accountable to your goals and ultimately a healthy lifestyle.

Leading a healthy lifestyle will greatly reduce your risk of being diagnosed with colon cancer.

If you have a family history of colon cancer, you should get screened for colon cancer. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month which is a great reason encourage your friends and family to get screened too!

Yep, it’s that time of the year again. Time to join thousands of people across the country in boosting colon cancer awareness during the month of March. With a little bit of effort you can help others learn about this life threatening disease and even be a part of finding a cure along the way.

Send E-Cards

Sure, you send e-cards for birthdays and special occasions but how about sending e-cards that could save someone’s life? By visiting the Hutchinson Center’s website you can educate yourself and send out e-cards to your friends encouraging them to get screened. There are several options to choose from and the cards are free. A quick, simple, free way to send an important message to those you care about.

Dress In Blue Day

On March 4th you can wear blue and encourage others to as well. Anita Mitchell started the dress in blue day in Seattle in 2006 and it has become a national movement. You might also want to consider updating your Facebook status and Tweeting about the dress in blue day. You can even change your profile photos and Facebook Timline photo to further boost awareness.

Run/Walk a Race

There are a variety of road races in a variety of distances which you can run or walk for colon cancer awareness. Many of them benefit local cancer treatment or ongoing research to help irradiate the disease. Not only do you get to enjoy the benefits of a run or walk but your involvement can help fund the next generation of research in the fight against colon cancer.

Corporate Sponsorship

Companies often have funds set aside for donations each year. Check and see if your company will match any money raised to go towards the Colon Cancer Alliance then launch a fundraising campaign at your office. Not only will you boost awareness but you can put actual dollars towards research. Roughly $0.77 of every dollar donated to the CCA goes towards patient support, education and national awareness programs.

Get Tested Yourself

It can be difficult to go tell someone to do something if you’ve never done it yourself. If you are 50 or older or have a greater risk for colon cancer, you should get tested. A simple, minimally evasive  colonoscopy will give you the peace of mind you need. Then you can tell everyone else that it’s not nearly as bad as it’s often described. Our dedicated, experienced staff at Midwest Gastroenterology can help you with your screening.

March is an important month for colon cancer awareness. There are a variety of things you can do to help others become aware and hopefully help save lives in the process. Get started today!