You may have heard of gluten — and the dietary concerns it causes — but have you heard of lectin? Known as an "antinutrient," lectin is a type of plant-based protein commonly found in seeds, grains, legumes, and tubers, like potatoes. As an antinutrient, lectins may prevent your body from absorbing essential vitamins and minerals — but that's not all. (more…)
Activated charcoal is a hot topic in health and wellness these days, gaining recognition as a powerhouse agent for detoxification with a wide range of potential uses. We see activated charcoal in everything from facial masks and teeth whiteners to digestive remedies and even an exotic new food trend that uses its charcoal hue for an element of surprise (think jet-black ice cream). (more…)
Many people experience the presence of blood in their stool. This alarming discovery may be the result of bleeding inside of your gastrointestinal (GI) tract and can indicate a temporary affliction or a severe illness. On the other hand, a red “bloody-looking” stool can also be caused by something you ate. Producing black, tarry, or dark red stools is an indicator of health conditions ranging from hemorrhoids to inflammation in the upper GI tract. Some of the causes of gastrointestinal bleeding can be prevented or reversed with a healthy diet […]
Going number two probably isn’t something you think much about, but when not going becomes physically uncomfortable, it’s at the forefront of your thoughts. When you’re faced with occasional constipation and need relief fast, you probably head to the pharmacy. Unfortunately, many over-the-counter laxatives come with a heaping helping of adverse side effects. Not to mention that the sheer abundance of laxative options can feel overwhelming. Here, we'll shed light on the subject and compare the various types of laxatives and their effects. (more…)
You can say you have diarrhea if you pass stools of liquid consistency more than three times in one day. Diarrhea strikes all ages at one time or another. On average, adults can experience diarrhea as many as four times per year. Usually, when this condition presents it clears up on it's own after a day or two. This is considered acute or short-term diarrhea and usually will not last 3 weeks. (more…)
