Brooke Glessing, MD Summer Digestive Distress ummertime is when we often find ourselves not paying close attention to what we eat. With family picnics, county fairs and barbeques, we are taking in more foods and in greater quantities than normal. These different foods, although they may taste very good, can have harmful effects that can cause varying degrees of discomfort. Monitoring both what and how much we eat can decrease the chances of bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and other digestive issues. It is important to be aware of some of these problems, so you can spend more time feeling good and enjoying summer rather than visiting a doctor. Follow the advice of gastroenterology physician, Brooke Glessing, MD at University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center and use these easy steps to avoid digestive issues during the summer months: Eat small, frequent meals, and eat them slowly Small portions eaten frequently help us avoid indigestion, and slowing our pace not only relieves stress on our digestive system, but also allows us to savor our food. Eating quickly can lead to gas, bloating and discomfort Safely store food Keeping cold foods cold and hot foods hot helps maintain freshness, as well as keep down bacteria that can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and other digestive problems Avoid foods that can irritate your stomach Some foods, particularly those that are fried or acidic, along with drinks that are caffeinated, carbonated or alcoholic, can very quickly lead to gas, bloating or heartburn. Also, cooking with more natural ingredients can eliminate problems caused by artificial ingredients. Drink plenty of clear liquids It is important to stay hydrated during summer, and drinking clear liquids can help fight diarrhea and vomiting know when your personal “normal” changes and to monitor your diet more closely. Poor digestive function can also lead to worsening allergy problems, as most of the body’s immune system is located in the gut. S If you have any difficulties, try over-the-counter remedies “Currently there is a lot of research If you have any persistent issues, antacids and acid blockers can help calm around allergies, food intolerance and digestion. While true food allergies your digestive system are uncommon, there are a variety of Many digestive problems that people conditions that can cause intolerance to certain foods,” says Dr. Glessing, frequently encounter are usually shortlived, and will pass quickly. It is important “Maintaining proper nutrition is vital to to stay aware, and if any problems not only avoid digestive issues during the summer months, but other problems persist, be sure to contact your doctor. as well.” Something that might come across as a stomach ache or heartburn could be something more serious if you find it lingering or occurring often. Dr. Glessing sees patients at UH Ahuja Medical Center as part of University Hospitals Digestive Health Institute and Pre-existing digestive issues might also is board-certified in internal medicine make themselves more known when and gastroenterology. Call 216-844-8500 you eat certain foods. It is important to to schedule an appointment or visit know how your body reacts to certain UHhospitals.org/Digestive to learn more. foods, including any allergies, so you 44 Beachwood Buzz n August 2015