Tips for Sticking to Your Healthy Diet

The weight loss journey can be daunting, and the trick is to not get too discouraged. If you’re finding trouble with sticking to a healthy diet, you’ll find some tips that may help you along the way below.

Set the Right Goals

Before your dieting journey begins, you want to set goals that will help you along the way. Make sure they’re attainable, and not too extreme. This means setting small goals first, such as making one dish a week with a new vegetable, or drinking more water during the day. Once you reach these small goals, you can start setting bigger ones so that you don’t become overwhelmed. One important thing to remember through the entire journey is that it doesn’t need to be miserable. Find ways to make your dieting fun, and you’ll find new and exciting aspects of it along the way.

Think Ahead

This tip applies to many different aspects of your diet. Whether you’re just going out for happy hour after work, or are jetting off for a week long vacation, it’s important to plan ahead and think of the challenges you’ll face. For example, if you’re going out to happy hour after work with coworkers, bring some healthy snacks with you, or eat them beforehand. This will keep the temptation of filling up on high calorie drinks or snacks low while you’re out with friends. When it comes to traveling, plan out and find a place where you can purchase healthy snacks while you’re on vacation. This will take away the need to buy unhealthy snacks when you’re unprepared.

Stay Positive

No journey is complete without a few setbacks or roadblocks. The important part, however, is to always stay positive. You’ll have weeks that are better than others, but it’s about what you do after the bad week that matters. Just remember to get back on track, and that you can move on after a setback.

If you’re having trouble with dieting and weight loss, Dr. Justin McCarthy, M.D., can help. With a special weight loss program called Orbera, you’ll receive a customized meal plan and support team to help you along your journey. Contact us today at 806-761-0722, or visit our website to learn more about how Orbera can help you.

Diet Support for Crohn’s Disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic digestive disorder that causes inflammation and damage in the digestive tract. The disease belongs to a group of conditions called inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Unfortunately, there is no cure for Crohn's disease, or a universal diet that will help all people with Crohn’s disease. You may find that making certain dietary changes can help reduce uncomfortable symptoms during flares, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Salmon

Fatty fish such as salmon is especially good for people with Crohn’s disease for a number of reasons. Salmon represents a source of lean protein. It also contains vitamin D, a vitamin that Crohn’s disease patients especially need. Additionally, the dietary fat from salmon improves the absorption of essential fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E and K.

Lastly, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and preliminary studies suggest that they can help reduce inflammation in Crohn’s disease.

Oatmeal

Dietary fiber is both good and bad for people with Crohn’s disease. On one hand, the right fiber can be filling, prevent overeating and even stop diarrhea, a common symptom of Crohn’s disease. On the other hand, the wrong fiber can worsen diarrhea and cause abdominal pain and cramps. Oatmeal is made up of soluble fiber, the kind easily broken down in the body. Oatmeal is also a good source of slowly released carbohydrates. Therefore, it can help sustain energy levels while reducing food cravings.

Poultry

White meats such as chicken and turkey are lean and good sources of proteins. These meats are also easy on the stomach and can be effortlessly digested.

Eggs

Eggs are a ready, inexpensive source of protein. However, protein is not the only essential nutrient found in eggs that Crohn’s disease patients need. Eggs are also a good source of dietary iron and vitamin D. Because iron deficiency and vitamin D deficiency are common among people with Crohn’s disease, regular consumption of eggs are a good way of avoiding these nutritional deficiencies. In addition, eggs promote the absorption of other important vitamins such as vitamins A, E and K.

White Rice

White rice is the go-to carbohydrate for anyone suffering from stomach discomfort. This is because they are easily digested and a ready source of carbohydrates. However, it is important not to let simple carbs such as white rice be the main source of calories in a diet for Crohn’s disease.

The most important part of figuring out your Crohn’s diet is evaluating your own experience with certain foods. Start by keeping a food diary to track meals and identify foods that trigger your Crohn’s symptoms, then start eliminating the foods you can’t tolerate. To learn more about Crohn’s disease treatments, Gastroenterology, and Hepatology contact Dr. Justin McCarthy by calling (806) 761-0722.

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Sources:

http://www.justinmccarthymd.com/

https://www.healthline.com/health/crohns-disease-power-foods

http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20559874,00.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-2035315

https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/crohns-disease-treatment-management/gut-soothing-foods/

Understanding Colon Cancer is Fighting Colon Cancer

The beginning of a new year is typically the time for fresh starts and new promises, it is also the perfect opportunity to consider our personal health and what we can be doing to better. Sure, squeezing a few workouts into our busy schedule and focusing on a healthy diet are all wonderful starts to improving our health and well-being. Another key ingredient to bettering ourselves is seeking education on the potential threats to our health.

One risk to countless Americans today is colon cancer. According to the trusted resource My Colon Cancer Coach, colon cancer occurs when malignant cells form in one or more layers of tissue in the longest part of the large intestine, or the colon. This usually occurs as premalignant polyps grow larger and more harmful over several years, eventually developing a malignant tumor.

Physical warning signs for colon cancer often include the presence of blood in or on the stool, shifts in normal bowel habits, an unknown cause of weight loss, and increases in stomach discomfort from more-than-usual bloating, gas, or cramps.

The best way to prevent colon cancer is to be aware of the importance of early detection and screening. Getting frequently checked by a qualified doctor is the best way to identify colon polyps early, before they develop into cancer. This is especially crucial if your family history indicates colon cancer, if you have inherited colon cancer symptoms, and if you are over the age of 50.

Our health shouldn’t be something that we start in January, quickly lose motivation for, and abandon by March. On the contrary, our personal health and wellbeing should always be a top priority, whether or not it’s a renewed New Year’s Resolution. The best way to safeguard your health is to stay educated on its potential threats and what you can do if harmful diseases come your way.

For more information on colon cancer and what you can be doing to prevent this dreaded illness, talk to your friends and experts at Justin McCarthy, M.D, who give you medical treatment you can trust. Call today at 806-761-0722 or schedule an upcoming appointment to discuss your questions on colon cancer.

New Year’s Resolution: More Fiber!

2018 is a New Year, with the potential for a healthier New You. Many people choose to set their New Year’s Resolutions with their health in mind. Some resolve to quit smoking or other bad vices, others aim to exercise more and eat healthier foods. One way you can improve your health through your diet is by adding fiber. Eating more fiber offers a variety of health benefits. Read on to discover why you should focus on adding fiber to your diet.

Can Help with Weight Loss

Even if you make no changes to your diet other than increasing your fiber intake, you will still see the difference in your waistline. Foods that are rich in fiber will fill you up faster and keep you satisfied longer, while also preventing your body from absorbing some of the calories in the foods you eat. In addition to helping you shed pounds, a high-fiber diet will also help you maintain that healthier weight over time.

Lowers Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

In addition to helping you maintain a healthy weight, fiber also keeps blood sugars steady. This combination of benefits from fiber decreases your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.

Lowers Risk of Heart Disease

Numerous studies published in the BMJ showed a link between a greater intake of fiber with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. Fiber helps soak up extra cholesterol in your system and aids in expelling it from your body.

Lowers Risk of Certain Cancers

Every 10 grams of fiber you eat is associated with a 10 percent reduced risk of colorectal cancer and a 5 percent fall in breast cancer risk, says a study published in the Annals of Oncology (source).

Keeps You Regular

This is probably the most well-known benefit of a high-fiber diet. Dietary fiber makes your stool softer and bulkier. A bulky stool is easier to pass, which decreases your chance of constipation. On the other hand, if you have loose, watery stools, fiber also helps solidify the stool because it absorbs water and adds bulk.

If you’re looking for ways to add more fiber into your diet, it’s surprisingly simple! Just try boosting your intake of the following foods:

• Whole-grain products
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Beans, peas and other legumes
• Nuts and seeds

You can also add a fiber supplement, like Benefiber or Citrucel, into your daily regimen. These come in a powder drink-mix form, making it easy to take if you have trouble swallowing pills.

If you’re experiencing any gastrointestinal concerns or discomfort, contact Dr. Justin McCarthy. Dr. McCarthy specializes in gastroenterology and hepatology, and can run a variety of lab tests right in office. Contact Dr. McCarthy’s office today!

Why Is Genetic Testing So Important?

Some things in life should remain a mystery. When we are going to have your first kiss, or when you’ll meet the love of your life, or when you get a big job promotion—those are moments in life where they are best enjoyed if they are surrounded by surprise. But there are some things where it’s best to be as informed and as prepared as possible.

For us, there are few aspects of living that are as vital to be as knowledgeable as possible when it comes to personal health. You have to know what you are putting into your body and how it can impact your quality of life. Not only that, but it’s just as crucial to understand how your family history and your genetic makeup, the very core of who you are, can influence our personal longevity.

This is why many people chose to dive into their genetic makeup in a detailed manner. This is what’s known as genetic testing. Just as the term indicates, genetic testing, according to genome.gov, uses laboratory methods to look at your genes to identify increased risks of health problems, to choose treatments, and to assess responses to treatments. Types of genetic testing include diagnostic testing, predictive and presymptomatic testing, carrier testing, newborn screening, and pharmacogenomics testing; all of these methods can help a person determine the best treatment for current symptoms or can help someone be proactive about treating potential systems down the line.

If the thought of pursuing genetic testing in the near future interests you, we at Justin McCarthy, M.D. recommend giving color testing a try. These tests in particular focus on genes associated with an increased risk for common hereditary cancers and high risk cholesterol—these disorders in particular where early knowledge and action can make a world of difference in fighting the disease. All you have to do is send in your sample, get your results, and speak with a counselor to create a personalized health plan for you.

Some surprises in life are a good thing, even a blessing. But your genetic makeup should not be one of them. Being adequately prepared on the health challenges and risks you may be facing will appropriately arm you for the battle ahead. No one understands this philosophy better than your friends and experts at the offices of Dr. Justin McCarthy. To schedule your upcoming appointment or to learn more about the importance of genetic testing, call 806-761-0722 or visit us in person at 2424 50th Street Suite 100 in the heart of Lubbock.  

What is Crohn’s Disease?

Crohn’s Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation in your digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. Even though Crohn’s disease will always affect the digestive tract, it will involve different areas for different people. The inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease can spread deep into the layers of tissue in the digestive tract, and can be both painful and debilitating. This can also cause other serious and even life-threatening complications.

Symptoms

When it comes to Crohn’s disease, the two main areas affected are the colon and a small segment of the small intestine. Although these are the two areas that are the most affected in patients with Crohn’s disease, it can also affect other areas. Signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease can range from mild to severe, and usually develop over time. People may experience symptoms that will come on suddenly, and others will go through periods where no symptoms are noticeable at all.

Symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Blood in your stool
• Mouth sores
• Reduced appetite and weight loss

People with severe Crohn’s disease may also experience inflammation of the skin, eyes, joints, liver, and bile ducts.

Causes & Risk Factors

While there are no known causes of Crohn’s disease, doctors have found more proof of main factors being hereditary and malfunctioning immune systems. Risk factors include:

• Age: you’re most likely to develop Crohn’s disease when you’re young
• Ethnicity: Even though Crohn’s is more likely to occur in those of eastern European descent, it can occur in any ethnicity.
• Family history: you’re more likely to develop Crohn’s if you have a family member who also has Crohn’s.
• Cigarette smoking: smoking cigarettes is the most controllable risk factor when it comes to preventing Crohn’s disease.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications: these can include ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen sodium (Aleve), diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) and others. While they don’t directly cause Crohn’s, they can lead to inflammation of the bowel which can make Crohn’s disease worse.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please give Justin McCarthy, M.D. a call at 806-761-0722 to set up an appointment. You don’t have to keep living with pain associated with Crohn’s disease, we can help you manage and reduce it, so that you can get back to living your life.

What You Need to Know About Colonoscopies

If your doctor tells you you’ll need a colonoscopy, don’t worry, they’re more common than you think. There are many reasons your doctor may recommend you come in for a colonoscopy, but it’s important to remember, it’s really not that bad, and it could help get on top of some serious problems.

What is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an exam your doctor uses to look inside your large intestine for possible causes for things like abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in your bowel habits. Colonoscopies can also be used to check for colorectal cancer if you’re over the age of 50.

What Happens During a Colonoscopy?

Your colonoscopy will be performed by an experienced doctor, and will last around 30-60 minutes. You’ll receive medications through an IV, and these will make you feel drowsy and relaxed. You’ll be asked to lay on your left side on an exam table, and then your doctor will examine your large intestine using a colonoscope, which is a long, flexible, tubular instrument that is about a half-inch in diameter. The colonoscope will allow the doctor to examine your large intestine for abnormalities through an image that it transmits. Because the colonoscope is flexible, it can move around your large intestine easily, allowing the doctor to better notice any abnormalities. If something abnormal is noticed, your doctor is able to remove small tissues samples, called a biopsy, during the procedure.

Are There Any Risks?

Colonoscopies are very safe, and also common. Most people experience cramping or bloating after their colonoscopy, which is also very normal. If your doctor takes a sample of tissue during the procedure, you may also experience blood in your stool. If you have any concerns going into the procedure about medications or reactions to medications they’ll give you, make sure to consult your doctor right away.

While needing to get a colonoscopy may seem daunting, this procedure can help keep your body healthy, and also help find early signs of cancer. Contact Justin McCarthy, M.D., today at 806-761-0722, or visit our website to learn more about how we can help you.