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Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Does your brain really take 8 minutes to realise your stomach is full?
Have you ever eaten a meal quickly only to feel overly stuffed a little later? This happens because there is a delay between when your stomach has had enough and when your brain finally realizes it. Many people believe it takes about 8 to 20 minutes for the brain to register fullness. During this time, you might continue eating even though your body has already had enough. Understanding this delay, explained by experts like Dr. Nina Nandy, a gastroenterologist and spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association, can help you make healthier choices. What happens in the stomach when you eat When you eat, your stomach expands and sends signals to your brain to let it know you are filling up. However, these messages are not instant. They rely on both nerve signals and hormones that travel through the blood. Nerve messages move quickly, but hormones like ghrelin, leptin, PYY, and GLP-1 take longer to reach the brain. Dr. Nandy explains that this is why the brain often realizes fullness with a delay. If you eat too fast, you are likely to keep adding food before these hormones kick in, which can easily lead to overeating. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Could This NEW Collagen Blend Finally Reduce Your Cellulite? Vitauthority Learn More Undo Why does the brain take time to respond The brain takes longer because it does not rely on just one signal. It looks at how stretched the stomach is, the nutrients in the food, and even taste and smell signals. Hormones take more time than nerves to communicate, which is why the lag can be anywhere between 8 and 20 minutes. This delay can sometimes make you reach for extra bites before your brain catches up. It's almost like a lagging internet connection where the message arrives a little too late, making you think you are still hungry when you're not. How to control overeating with mindful eating Eating slowly and paying attention to your food can make a big difference. If you rush through a meal, your brain does not get enough time to recognize that you are satisfied. Dr. Nandy recommends chewing food thoroughly, savoring each bite, and practicing mindful eating. Even pausing between bites or putting your fork down can give your stomach time to communicate with your brain. People who practice this often end up eating less without feeling deprived, which makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight over time. Good foods that help you feel full faster Fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains can help you feel full more quickly. These foods reduce the hunger hormone ghrelin and boost hormones that promote satiety. They also put pressure on the stomach's stretch receptors, which makes your brain realize faster that you have eaten enough. Protein-rich foods like eggs, lean meats, and lentils are also great because they keep you satisfied for contrast, sugary snacks or refined carbs may fill you up quickly but make you hungry again within a short time. Taking your time while eating can help you avoid overeating and maintain a healthy weight. It improves digestion, reduces discomfort after meals, and allows your body to properly process nutrients. In the long term, it may also lower the risk of obesity and related health conditions. Eating slowly can also make meals more enjoyable, as you notice flavors, textures, and smells better. Over time, this habit trains your body to naturally regulate portion sizes, leading to a healthier relationship with food.
Medscape
23-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Rapid Review Quiz: Noncolorectal Gastrointestinal Cancers
Noncolorectal gastrointestinal (GI) cancers represent a clinically significant and diverse group of malignancies impacting patient outcomes across multiple organ systems. Given the range in epidemiology, risk factors, and management strategies for these cancers, it is essential for clinicians to recognize and stay up to date on current guidelines related to their surveillance, diagnosis, and treatment. Familiarity with the evolving landscape of noncolorectal GI cancers is foundational for effective clinical decision making in everyday practice. According to current National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines, pancreatic cancer surveillance should be considered in individuals with pathogenic variants in the STK11 germline, such as Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. An expert review of the current clinical practice guidance from the American Gastroenterological Association concurs that surveillance should be considered in patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome or other genetic syndromes associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Having only one first-degree relative with pancreatic cancer can increase risks; however, surveillance is generally recommended only when there is a stronger family history, such ≥ 2 affected relatives (along a the first-degree relative with pancreatic cancer) or additional genetic risk factors. Although smoking is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer, surveillance in all smokers is typically not advised. Learn more about workup for pancreatic cancer. Over the past several decades, the number of new esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cases has declined in Western nations, including the US. However, the number of new esophageal adenocarcinoma diagnoses has simultaneously risen considerably in the West. This is consistent with other epidemiological data. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, rather than esophageal adenocarcinoma, has been strongly linked to alcohol use. Conversely, esophageal adenocarcinoma is more strongly associated with GERD and Barrett esophagus. Of the two main types of esophageal cancer, data indicate squamous cell carcinoma generally has a poorer prognosis than adenocarcinoma. Learn more about the background of esophageal cancer. Although incidence is decreasing, hepatitis B infection remains the most common cause of HCC globally. However, MASLD has overtaken hepatitis C virus infection as the leading cause of HCC in patients listed for liver transplantation in the US. Further, one study found that MASLD represented the most common (35.6%) underlying cause of the condition. Alcohol-associated liver disease accounts for a minority of HCC cases in the US, representing up to 5.6% in recent analyses. Learn more about HCC etiology. Gallstones are an established risk factor for gallbladder carcinoma. Most cases of gallbladder cancer are adenocarcinoma rather than squamous cell carcinoma. Unfortunately, gallbladder carcinomas are usually identified at nonresectable stages , largely owing to the similarity in symptoms to more benign conditions, such as cholecystitis. Jaundice is typically an indicator of poor prognosis in gallbladder carcinoma. Learn more about deterrence/prevention of gallbladder cancer. The latest guidelines from the NCCN recommend patients with previously untreated, advanced, HER2-positive gastric cancer receive a combination of platinum- and fluoropyrimidine-based chemotherapy and HER2-targeted therapy in the form of trastuzumab as an initial therapy. Guidelines from the American Society of Clinical Oncology similarly recommend trastuzumab plus pembrolizumab in conjunction with chemotherapy that is either fluoropyrimidine- or oxaliplatin-based as an initial therapy for this population. Chemotherapy with ICI is generally indicated for HER2-negative cases, not as an initial therapy in HER2-positive cases. Chemotherapy alone is not considered optimal therapy in confirmed HER2-positive cases, and ICI monotherapy is not recommended as an initial therapy for this group. Learn more about the treatment of gastric cancer.
Medscape
02-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Fast Five Quiz: Probiotics Facts vs Fiction
Probiotics are undoubtedly a popular choice among many Americans. Consumers cite goals ranging from bowel health and regularity to vaginal health, bone density support, and immune boosts as reasons for using probiotic capsules, gummies, and beverages. However, confusion and concern from patients and healthcare providers persist over probiotic indications, quality, and reliability. How much do you know about probiotics and their applications? Test your knowledge with this quick quiz. Guidance from the AAP states that current evidence does not support the universal, routine administration of probiotics to preterm infants, especially those with birth weight < 1000 g. Despite some studies showing that probiotics reduce the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants or infants with very low birth weight, the AAP does not recommend their use due to conflicting data regarding safety and efficacy as well as the lack of pharmaceutical-grade, FDA-regulated probiotic products in the United States. Additionally, the AAP maintains no evidence of significant reduction of nosocomial sepsis in preterm infants is associated with probiotic supplementation. However, the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) suggests using probiotics with specific combinations of bacterial species in infants < 37 weeks of gestational age and low birth weight to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis. Learn more about necrotizing enterocolitis. AGA clinical practice guidelines recommend probiotics in patients with C difficile infection only in the context of a clinical trial. Otherwise, the AGA makes no recommendations on the use of probiotics in C difficile colitis. A knowledge gap surrounds this topic as study data has been heterogenous. Learn more about C difficile colitis. Multiple organizations, such as the AGA and the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO), do not recommend probiotics for the management of Crohn's disease. According to the WGO, studies have not produced evidence that probiotics are beneficial for the remission or maintenance of remission of Crohn's disease. The AGA only recommends probiotics for Crohn's disease in the context of a clinical trial. Learn more about Crohn's disease. A meta-analysis of trials including a total of more than 1400 participants found that probiotic supplementation was associated with significant reductions in ALT, AST, and GGT in MASLD. Significant reductions in triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterols, insulin, insulin resistance, tumor necrosis factor alpha, BMI, and C-reactive protein were also observed with probiotic supplementation. A separate meta-analysis including more than 5100 participants on the effects of probiotics on ALT, AST, and GGT in patients with MASLD also found reductions in all three liver enzymes associated with probiotic use. Learn more about MASLD. Per the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics, probiotics are defined as 'live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit.' Probiotics are found in foods such as kimchi, yogurt (with live and active cultures), and certain cheeses. Prebiotics are typically fiber or other complex carbohydrates that function as metabolic food for beneficial microorganisms. Some examples of prebiotic-containing foods include flaxseeds, whole oats, and barley. Prebiotics and probiotics might both be used to treat conditions as well as for disease prevention. Some fermented foods, like miso and sauerkraut, contain live strains of probiotics. Prebiotics are bioactive compounds found in fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, and undergo fermentation by bacteria in the gut. Probiotics might be found in solid foods, supplement beverages, as well as supplement capsules and gummies. Prebiotics are present in fiber-rich foods and are also available as purchasable supplements. Learn more about about fiber supplementation.
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
5 most common digestive issues that are on the rise in the US (and how to tackle them)
Digestive health is one of the integral keys to overall healthy living because it allows the body to efficiently break down food and absorb vital nutrients, which are essential for energy, growth, and cell repair. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now A healthy digestive system also plays a significant role in overall well-being, impacting everything from immunity and mental health to the prevention of various diseases. However, digestive health is increasingly in the spotlight as millions of Americans report bloating, pain, irregularity, and heartburn. Digestive issues don't just cause uncomfortable symptoms – they can disrupt travel, social life, and even professional productivity. 40% of Americans say their daily lives are disrupted by digestive problems, says the American Gastroenterological Association. Understanding why these ailments are on the rise – and how to effectively manage them – is crucial for restoring wellness and enjoying daily life. Let's explore the top five issues and practical solutions to them. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) IBS affects an estimated 25–45 million Americans – about 10–15% of adults, with women disproportionately affected. IBS has been increasingly recognized, partly due to widespread social media awareness. Characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel habits, this functional disorder is on the rise, fueled by stress, diet, post-COVID gut dysfunction, and social media-driven self-diagnosis. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, ranging from constipation to diarrhea. Why it's rising: Heightened stress and anxiety post-pandemic, poor dietary trends and microbiome imbalance, and most importantly – greater self-diagnosis and clinical detection are likely to contribute to the rise of IBS. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now How to tackle it: Dietary shifts: A low‑FODMAP diet under professional guidance is first-line. It systematically eliminates and reintroduces fermentable carbs to identify triggers. Psyllium fiber especially benefits constipated individuals. 76% of patients see improvement after switching to this diet. Increase fiber intake for constipation-predominant IBS, while avoiding insoluble fiber if diarrhea is dominant. Stress management: Techniques like mindfulness, relaxation therapy, hypnotherapy, and CBT calm the gut‑brain axis. Lifestyle essentials: Regular exercise, adequate hydration, adequate sleep, and fiber-rich whole foods support healthy gut motility. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) About 20% of US adults experience GERD, which occurs when acid reflux causes bothersome symptoms at least twice weekly. The consequence? Heartburn and chest discomfort impact sleep, quality of life, and carry long-term risks if untreated. Chronic acid exposure may increase the risk of esophageal damage and even cancer. Why it's rising: Sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and diets rich in fatty, spicy, and processed foods are the contributing factors. How to tackle it: Lifestyle tweaks: Eat smaller meals, drop trigger foods/drinks like caffeine, alcohol, spicy and fatty foods, avoid eating within 2–3 hours before bedtime, and elevate your bed's head by 6–8 inches. Weight control: Addressing obesity reduces reflux episodes substantially. Medication when needed: Use OTC antacids or acid blockers (H2 inhibitors or PPIs). Persistent symptoms should prompt evaluation to prevent complications like esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus. Chronic Constipation Constipation affects an estimated 63 million Americans, though surveys show nearly a third regularly feel constipated – often correlating with low fiber intake, dehydration, inactivity, and IBS. Constipation is on the rise due to low fiber consumption, poor hydration, reduced activity, and comorbid conditions like diabetes and IBS. Only 5–9% meet the recommended fiber intake. Why it's rising: Poor hydration and fiber-poor, processed diets, and sedentary lifestyles are the main reasons. How to tackle it: Hydration: Aim for 2–3 L of water daily—roughly 47% of Americans under-hydrate. High‑fiber diet: Gradually increase soluble fiber (20–35 g/day) via grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, and psyllium supplements. Routine and movement: Establish regular bathroom habits, avoid straining, and incorporate at least moderate physical activity. Realistic treatments: Use bulk-forming laxatives or osmotic agents if necessary – but consult a doctor if symptoms persist. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD: Crohn's and Ulcerative Colitis) IBD – comprising Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis – affects about 1.4–1.6 million Americans. These chronic inflammatory conditions cause serious symptoms, like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, persistent diarrhea (often bloody), fatigue, and weight loss, and the incidence is rising. Why it's rising: Genetic susceptibility combined with Western diets, environmental triggers, and immune dysregulation are the main culprits behind the surge in this disease. How to tackle it: Prompt diagnosis: Persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and pain require colonoscopy and lab testing. Medication regimens: Use anti-inflammatories, corticosteroids for flares, immunomodulators, and biologics to maintain remission. Surgery might be needed for complications. Nutrition strategies: During flares, low-residue diets help; dietitian-guided intake during remission prevents malnutrition. Ongoing monitoring: Regular check-ups reduce risks like stricture formation and colorectal cancer. Celiac Disease Around 1–2 million Americans are diagnosed with celiac disease, a serious autoimmune reaction to gluten. Many cases remain undiagnosed, with about 2.5 million people unknowingly affected and undiagnosed. It damages the small intestine lining, impairs nutrient absorption, and leads to symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, anemia, and fatigue. Why it's rising: Improved testing and awareness, and possibly early-life dietary changes, might be the possible reasons behind the surge. How to tackle it: Accurate diagnosis: Requires blood tests for tTGA antibodies and a confirmatory duodenal biopsy. Strict gluten-free diet: Eliminating wheat, barley, and rye is essential – and working with a dietitian reduces the risk of nutritional deficiencies. Nutrient replacement: Monitor iron, folate, calcium, vitamin D, and consider supplements or fortified gluten-free grains. Lifelong compliance: Stay vigilant to avoid hidden gluten in cross-contaminated products. Digestive issues – IBS, GERD, chronic constipation, IBD, and celiac disease – are escalating in prevalence, fueled by modern lifestyles, stress, dietary patterns, and improved diagnosis, significantly impacting daily living. But the narrative isn't hopeless. Through scientifically backed dietary modifications, lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and medical care, you can take control. Early screening, persistent symptom tracking, and professional guidance help restore digestive comfort and well-being. Tackling couple quarantine issues effectively
Newsweek
21-06-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
The Key to Better Sleep Is in Your Gut, Says Gastroenterologist
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Around 25 million U.S. adults suffer from insomnia. At the same time, more than 3.9 million Americans are taking probiotics, usually for gut health, according to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA). And gut health could be the key to better sleep. A study published in the journal Engineering examined a specific probiotic strain called Lactobacillus helveticus CCFM1320. This probiotic produces a compound known as SAM (S-adenosylmethionine), which helps regulate the body's internal clock and supports the production of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep. The researchers found that this probiotic could significantly improve sleep quality. The Gut as a Second Brain Neuroscientist Dr. Chelsie Rohrscheib, the head of sleep at Wesper, a national home sleep disorder diagnostics company, told Newsweek: "The gut essentially acts as a secondary nervous system and creates and releases many crucial neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which also help to regulate nervous system activity. "This allows for two-way communication between the gut and the brain, called the gut-brain axis. Healthy gut microbes are essential to keeping the gut healthy and functioning, and there is ample evidence that gut microbiota dysregulation can negatively impact the activity of the gut-brain axis. Because the brain is highly sensitive, this can lead to poor sleep quality." Stock image of a woman taking pills from her nightstand before bed. Stock image of a woman taking pills from her nightstand before bed. Liudmila Chernetska/iStock / Getty Images Plus Is CCFM1320 a Game-Changing Strain? To test the effectiveness of CCFM1320 in humans, scientists from Jiangnan University conducted a four-week study with 60 volunteers who experienced sleep difficulties. Participants were divided into two groups: one received the probiotic, while the other took a placebo. Results showed that those who consumed the probiotic had better sleep scores, lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and a healthier balance of gut bacteria. Additionally, the probiotic boosted the expression of genes involved in producing and utilizing SAM, a key factor in sleep and overall health. Strain-Specific Benefits Dr. Michel Bass, a board-certified gastroenterologist and the Founding Medical Director at Oshi Health in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, emphasized the importance of strain specificity: "Not all probiotics are created equal. This study identified CCFM1320 as uniquely beneficial for sleep quality. This isn't a generic 'take-any-probiotic' situation—it's about strain-level specificity," Bass told Newsweek. "That's where a lot of public messaging needs to evolve. Just like different medications target different conditions, different strains do different things. And this one appears to enhance melatonin synthesis via SAM methylation—a novel pathway." Probiotic Supplements vs. Fermented Foods Stock image of an assortment of fresh vegetables and meats. Stock image of an assortment of fresh vegetables and meats. esilzengin/iStock / Getty Images Plus While fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and kefir are beneficial for general gut health, Bass explained that they may not provide targeted probiotic strains at therapeutic levels. "If someone wants to improve things like sleep quality or reduce stress hormones like cortisol, a strong, well-researched supplement—especially one with proven strains like CCFM1320—is usually more effective," he said. "That said, eating fermented foods is still a great daily habit and can complement targeted probiotic supplements." Jason Eastty, owner of Healthspan Longevity in Westborough, Massachusetts, and a nutrition specialist, added that overall good nutrition can combat poor sleep. "Having a nutrient deficiency—like low iron, magnesium, or vitamin D—can throw off your gut microbial balance, leading to poor sleep. Clinical trials have shown that correcting these deficiencies helps microbial diversity and improves sleep efficiency," Eastty said. He also emphasized that a whole-foods diet rich in fiber—from fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains—is essential to feeding the "good" bacteria in your gut.
