Find helpful articles on digestive health, with tips on improving gut health, preventing issues, and managing common digestive problems for better well-being.

Poor gut health can show up as persistent tiredness, digestive upset, skin problems, and autoimmune issues. Using probiotics, eating fermented foods, staying well hydrated, and managing stress are all strategies that can help restore balance. What is the gut microbiome, and why does it matter? The phrase “gut microbiome” describes the microbes that live in your intestines. Your digestive tract hosts trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. While some microbes…

Although various home remedies for pinworms are often shared, they’re based on anecdote rather than proven science. Over-the-counter pyrantel pamoate or prescription antiparasitic drugs are effective options, while home approaches might provide limited symptom relief. Pinworm infection (Enterobius vermicularis) is the most frequently diagnosed intestinal worm infection in the United States. It commonly affects school-aged children and can cause marked irritation and disruption to daily activities. If someone in your…

A colon cleanse may ease constipation. You can perform a natural colon cleanse at home using water, dietary changes, and some readily available products. Good digestive function is central to feeling healthy, energetic, and balanced. One key organ in digestion is the colon, also known as the large intestine. Maintaining colon health is an important part of overall digestive wellness. Some people advocate cleansing the colon to optimize digestive function.…

Psyllium husk is rich in soluble fiber that can support digestion and cardiovascular wellness. It may also lower your chances of developing certain medical issues. Psyllium derives from the outer coverings of seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. It’s most often recognized as a laxative and is sold over-the-counter (OTC) under names such as ispaghula husk (Fybogel). Beyond its laxative role, some studies indicate that psyllium might offer benefits for…

Some detox teas are just ordinary tea blends, while others may include substances that are toxic or trigger allergies, and in certain cases even undisclosed drugs or medications. People have attempted to purge their bodies of supposed toxins for millennia. Historic “detox” methods include bloodletting, enemas, sweat lodges, prolonged fasting, and drinking cleansing teas. These approaches were employed as medical treatments up until the early 20th century. (img by NBC…

SCOBY is an abbreviation for “symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast.” It’s the key component used in fermenting kombucha. You can buy a SCOBY commercially or cultivate one yourself to brew kombucha at home. Kombucha is a fermented drink prized for its distinctive taste and potential health perks. Although you can find it in supermarkets and specialty shops, you can easily prepare your own using tea, sugar and a SCOBY.…

A lactose tolerance test evaluates how effectively your body can break down lactose, the sugar present in milk and other dairy items. Under normal circumstances, an intestinal enzyme called lactase enables the digestion of milk and dairy by splitting lactose into absorbable sugars. Some people produce less lactase than typical. In these cases, lactose remains in the gut and ferments. This reduced ability to digest lactose is known as lactose…

Constipation relief strategies — like boosting fiber, performing an abdominal massage, or increasing fluids — can often help move stool along. In some cases you may need a laxative, a suppository, or an enema. Constipation is typically defined as having fewer than a few bowel movements per week or passing stools that are hard and difficult to expel. This often leads to excessive straining and prolonged time on the toilet.…

If you’re dealing with trapped gas, trying home remedies and certain movements may provide relief. If the problem persists, occurs often, or comes with other symptoms, it could signal an underlying health issue.

Nearly everyone deals with gas, bloating, and other uneasy digestive sensations occasionally. For those with a sensitive stomach, these issues can happen more often and may need management. Acupressure is a branch of traditional Chinese medicine that many believe can help with gas, bloating, stomach aches, and other ailments. Here, we look at whether acupressure might aid digestion and how to apply acupressure to ease gastrointestinal complaints. About acupressure points…