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Probiotics are foods or supplements that contain live microorganisms intended to maintain or improve the "good" bacteria (normal microflora) in the body. Prebiotics are foods (typically high-fiber foods) that act as food for human microflora. Prebiotics are used with the intention of improving the balance of these microorganisms.
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage — the tough tissue that cushions joints. In supplement form, glucosamine is harvested from shells of shellfish or made in a lab. There are several forms of glucosamine, including glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetyl glucosamine.
Cholesterol-improving supplement. What it might do. Side effects and drug interactions. Berberine. May reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or "bad") cholesterol and triglycerides. May cause diarrhea, constipation, gas, nausea or vomiting; may cause harm to babies during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Fish oil.
A complete blood count, measurement of electrolytes and tests of kidney function can help indicate how bad your diarrhea is. Stool test. You may have a stool test to see if a bacterium or parasite is causing your diarrhea. Hydrogen breath test. This type of test can help determine if you have a lactose intolerance.
Colon cleanses done for medical reasons use water. Colon cleanses done for detoxing sometimes use herbal solutions, coffee or coffee grounds instead of water. Colon cleansing can be dangerous. Coffee enemas have been linked to many deaths. And in general, colon cleansing also can cause less serious side effects.
Diagnosis. In addition to giving you a general physical exam, your health care professional will likely do the following during your appointment: Gently press on your abdomen to check for pain, tenderness or irregular lumps. Look at the tissue of the anus and the surrounding skin. Use a gloved finger to check the condition of the rectum and the ...
Taking fiber supplements every day seems to be safe. Popular fiber supplements include inulin, psyllium (Metamucil, Konsyl, others) and methylcellulose (Citrucel). Fiber is good for the body. It helps the bowel work well and prevents constipation. Fiber can help lower cholesterol and help you feel full, which might help control overeating.
Answer From Jennifer K. Nelson, R.D., L.D. The risk of an enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), increases with age. By age 50, half of men will show signs of BPH. But making some healthy changes to your diet and exercise habits may help you manage BPH symptoms such as increased urinary frequency and urgency.
Milk thistle can cause: Gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting and abdominal bloating. Itchiness. Headache. If you have diabetes, use milk thistle with caution, since the supplement might lower blood sugar. There is also concern that milk thistle might affect estrogen levels.
By Mayo Clinic Staff. Nutritional supplements are meant to complement a healthy diet, not replace it. If you're in good health and you eat a wide variety of foods, you likely don't need supplements. But sometimes, fortified foods and dietary supplements may help provide one or more nutrients. For example, women who are pregnant or hoping to ...