bergencountycaregiver

10 Symptoms of Caregiver Stress: Act Now Foundation

Alzheimer’s Awareness:

1. DENIAL about the disease and its effects on the person who’s been diagnosed. “I know Mom is going to get better”.
2. ANGER at the person with Alzheimer’s or others, anger that no cure exists or that people don’t understand what’s happening. “If he asks me that one more time I’ll scream”.
3. SOCIAL WITHDRAWL from friends and activities that once brought pleasure. “I don’t care about getting together with the neighbors anymore”.
4. ANXIETY about facing another day and about the future. “What happens when he needs more than I can provide?”
5. DEPRESSION that begins to break your spirit and affects your ability to cope. “I don’t care anymore.”
6. EXHAUSTION that makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks. “I’m too tired for this.”
7. SLEEPLESSNESS caused by a never ending list of concerns. “What if she wanders out of the house or falls and hurts herself?”
8. IRRITABILITY that leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and actions. “Leave me along.”
9. LACK OF CONCENTRATION that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks. “I was so busy. I forgot we had an appointment.”
10. HEALTH PROBLEMS that begin to take a mental and physical toll. “I can’t remember the last time I felt good.”

If you experience any of these signs of stress on a regular basis, make time to talk to your doctor.

Disclaimer: this information was taken directly from the pamphlet from Act Now Foundation’s Alzheimer’s Awareness. Please relax and deep breath. You all are doing good.

Bergen County Alternative to Violence:

24 Hour Hotline (201) 336-7575

All information is kept confidential

County of Bergen Department of Human Services

Alternatives to Domestic Violence

One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor

Hackensack, NJ  07601

TTY: 201-336-7525

Monday-Thursday 9:00am-9:00pm

Friday 9:00am-4:30pm

adv@co.Bergen.nj.us

http://www.co.bergen.nj.us.adv

What is domestic violence?

Domestic violence is a systematic pattern of abusive behavior used by one person in a relationship to gain and/or maintain power and control over another. This includes dating, partner, spouse, elder abuse and abuse between present or former household members.

Types of Abuse:

Abuse is any behavior used to control or intimidate another person  and can be verbal, emotional, physical or sexual in nature.

Emotional/Psychological Abuse:

Name calling, put downs, threats, stalking, intimidation, degradation, tracking time, isolating victim from family and friends, forbidding victim to work or participate in outside activities, sleep deprivation, interrogation, accusing, using money to control, threatening to “out” a gay or lesbian partner, harming pets, destroying property and throwing objects near victim.

Physical Abuse:

Pushing, shoving, slapping, kicking, punching, biting, restraint, hair pulling, strangulation, pinching, burning, grabbing, shaking, scratching, spitting, using weapons, throwing objects at victim.

Sexual Abuse:

Any non-consensual sexual act or behavior, including forced sex, unwanted touching, sexual degradation and violence targeted at the genital area.

ADV Program Description:

Alternatives to Domestic Violence is a multifaceted domestic violence intervention program for Bergen County residents. We offer a comprehensive approach to intervention for individuals and families living with domestic violence. Most of our services are free of charge. Those that require a fee are affordable and are based on a sliding scale. No one is ever turned away due to lack of funds.

ADV Services:

Clinical Services:

*24 hour hotline: (201) 336-7575

*Crisis intervention/Case Management

*Counseling Services: Group and Individual

Legal Advocacy Services:

*Court Appearance Preparation

*Court Accompaniment

*Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project (DVLAP)

*Legal Consultation

*Domestic Violence Crisis Response Teams

Community Outreach:

*Prevention Through Education

*Professional Training and Education

County of Bergen

One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor

Hackensack, NJ  07601

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the County of Bergen Alternatives to Domestic Violence pamphlet. I have not used this service so I have no opinion on it either yes or no to how the program works. Please call them or email for more information.

Cologuard: Rx only Stool DNA Test

Information & Support for Patients

Next Steps for Cologuard

Now that your doctor has ordered Cologuard for you, here’s what happens next:

*You may receive a call or email from Exact Sciences Labs to confirm your mailing address and insurance information.

*We ship your kit directly to you.

*You collect your stool sample in the privacy of your own home.

*You return the kit via UPS prepaid shipping or pick-up, in the same box it arrived in.

*Your doctor contacts you with your results.

If you have any questions about completing the test, please call us at the number below.

Exact Sciences Patient Support 1-844-870-8878

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Insurance

Your insurance plan may cover all or part of your Cologuard test; here’s a quick guide.

Medicare Covers Cologuard:

*Patients with Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans do not have any co-pays or deductible amounts.

*For Medicare Advantage patients, prior authorizations may apply. Please call your insurer to confirm.

Private Insurance Coverage varies by Plan:

*Depending on your insurer and specific plan, your out of pocket cost for Cologuard could range from $0 to $649*.

*We highly recommend that you call your insurer directly to confirm what they will pay, what they expect you to pay, and if you or your doctor need to file any paperwork (like a prior authorization) before you use the test. You can tell them Cologuard is billed under CPT code 81528.

Billing:

*After your complete your screening test, our specialists will seek payment from your insurer.

*You will get an Explanation of Benefits after your insurance provider reviews any claim, whether they approve or deny it. THIS IS NOT A BILL.

*If your insurer does not pay in full, the remaining balance will become your responsibility.

If you have more detailed questions about your specific plan, please call your insurer directly. For more information on insurance and billing, visit: cologuardtest.com/insurance.

*As of July 2016

For a step by step video on how to use Cologuard, visit:

cologuardtest.com/use

*Disclaimer: this information is taken directly from the Cologuard pamphlet. I have not used the service so I have no opinion of the program either yes or no to how it works. Please call them directly for more information.

Act Now Foundation: Alzheimer’s Awareness

Alzheimer’s Resource Center of NJ

Building Awareness One Mind at a Time

http://www.actnowfoundation.org

A non-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organization

What is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and the most common form of dementia. It causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

It is not a normal part of aging.

Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60% to 80% of dementia cases. But Alzheimer’s is not just a disease of old age. Up to 5% of people with the disease have early onset Alzheimer’s (also known as younger-onset) which often appears when someone is in their 40’s or 50’s.

Alzheimer’s disease steals your memories, robs you of your relationships, takes away your ability to take care of yourself and makes even the familiar seem odd and scary.

Alzheimer’s disease touches every community, yet some groups including Hispanics, African-Americans and women, are at greater risk. The lack of equity, both social and environmental, impacts the health and well-being of all and creates health disparities. Act Now Foundation seeks to eliminate or reduce health disparities and the impact of Alzheimer’s disease by practicing inclusiveness and equity in engaging communities to build supportive, Alzheimer’s-friendly environments.

What We Do:

Act Now Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging underserved communities in a grassroots campaign to raise awareness and education about Alzheimer’s disease, prevention and early detection. By mobilizing public and private resources in a campaign to fight Alzheimer’s and by enlisting underserved communities in that campaign, we can change the course of Alzheimer’s disease for underserved minorities and their families, who are at greater risk.

The Foundation’s name , “ACT” stands for Awareness, Cure and Treatment of Alzheimer’s.

How We Do It:

Act Now recently celebrated the Grand Opening of the first Alzheimer’s Resource Center in Northern NJ. The Center offers communities a less-formal, more supportive environment for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, to ensure that people receive a timely diagnosis and offer support, education and assistance to help families, caregivers and professionals identify and access proper care and support services.

Our Programs:

The Foundation’s emphasis is to create an Alzheimer’s capable community. By raising awareness, educating our urban neighborhoods and supporting individuals living with Alzheimer’s, we are building a stronger, more informed community. Our programs, available in both Spanish and English, help us reach that goal.

*”The Alzheimer’s Care Project”-A step by step guide from diagnosis to end of life.

*Memory Screenings because early diagnosis is key to creating a better treatment plan.

*Educational Workshops-Designed to ensure that caregivers are well trained to provide appropriate, competent and sensitive care and support.

*Support Groups for caregivers and seniors with early stage dementia.

*Resources for families to help guide and improve the physical, emotional and financial impacts of Alzheimer’s disease.

It may be hard to know the difference between a typical age-related change and the first sign of Alzheimer’s.

Ask yourself: “Is this something new?” “Is my memory loss affecting my daily life?”

Contact Us

Act Now Foundation

Alzheimer’s Resource Center of NJ

830 Bergen Avenue, Street 8A

Jersey City, NJ  07306

(201) 721-6721

Visit us at:

http://www.actnowfoundation.org

facebook.com/actnowfoundation

twitter@ActNow4Alz

*Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Act Now Foundation pamphlet. I have never used the service so I have no opinion on it either yes or no to how it works. Please call or email the Foundation for more information.

Tenants: Find a Section 8 Rental

*Search thousands of properties.

*Free call center support.

*Free personal account for saving searches and favorite properties.

Get started today at: http://www.GoSection8.com

8 GoSection8.com

Toll Free (866) 466-7328

email: tenantsupport@gosection8.com

website: http://www.gosection8.com

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Section 8 pamphlet. I have never used the service before so I can not say yes or no to how it works. Please call the number above or email them for more information.

Landlords: list your property for free.

*Receive Guaranteed Rent.

*Choose between free and premium listing options.

*Search Thousands of tenant leads.

*More than one million website hits daily.

Get Started today at: http://www.GoSection8.com

8 GoSection8.com

Toll free: (866) 466-7328

email:landlordsupport@gosection8.com

http://www.gosection8.com

Disclaimer: this information is taken directly from the Section 8 pamphlet. I have never used the service so I can’t say yes or no to how good it is. Please call or email them for more information.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic,  recurrent inflammatory disease of the intestinal tract.  The intestinal tract has four major parts; the esophagus or food tube; the stomach, where food is churned and digested; the long, small bowel, where nutrients, calories and vitamins are absorbed and the colon and rectum, where water is absorbed and stool is stored. The two primary sites for Crohn’s disease are the ileum, which is the last portion of the small bowel (ileitis, regional enteritis) and the colon (Crohn’s colitis). The condition begins as small, microscopic nests of inflammation which persist and smolder. The lining of the bowel can then become ulcerated and the bowel wall thickened. Eventually, the bowel may become narrowed or obstructed and surgery would be needed.

What Causes Crohn’s disease?

There is now evidence of a genetic link as Crohn’s frequently shows up in a family group. In addition, there is evidence that the normal bacteria that grow in the lower gut may, in some manner, act to promote inflammation. The body’s immune system, which protects it against many different infections, is known to be a factory. There are still a number of unknowns about the cause of the disease. Fortunately, a great deal is known about the disease and especially its treatment.

Who develops Crohn’s Disease?

The condition occurs in both sexes and among all age groups, although its most frequently begins in young people. Jewish people are at increased risk of developing Crohn’s, while African Americans are at decreased risk, which speaks to the genetic link in this disease.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Crohn’s disease depend on where in the intestinal tract the disorder appears. When the ileum (ileitis) is involved, recurrent pain may be experienced in the right lower abdomen. At times, pain mimics acute appendicitis. When the colon is the site, diarrhea (sometimes bloody) may occur, along with fever and weight loss. Crohn’s disease often affects the anal area where there may be a draining sinus tract called a fistula. When the disease is active, fatigue and lethargy appear. In children and adolescents there may be difficulty gaining or maintaining weight.

Diagnosis

There is no one conclusive diagnostic test for Crohn’s disease. The patient’s medical history and physical exam are always helpful. Certain blood and stool tests are performed to arrive at a diagnosis. X-rays of the small intestine and colon (obtained through an upper GI series and barium enema) are usually required. In addition, a visual examination (sigmoidoscopy) of the lining of the rectum and lower bowel is usually necessary. A more thorough exam of the entire colon (colonoscopy) is often the best way of diagnosing the problem when the disease is in the colon.

Course and Complications

The disorder often remains quiet and easily controlled  for long periods of time. Most people with Crohn’s disease continue to pursue their goals in life, go to school, marry, have a family and work with few limitations or inconveniences. Some problems, outside the bowel, can occur. Arthritis, eye and skin problems and in rare instances, chronic liver conditions may develop. As noted, the disease can occur around the anal canal. Open sores called fissures can develop, which are painful. A fistula can also form. This is a tiny channel that burrows from the rectum to the skin around the anus. In addition, when inflammation persists in the ileum or colon, narrowing and partial obstruction may occur. Surgery is usually required to treat this problem. When Crohn’s disease has been present for many years there is an increased risk of cancer.

Treatment

Effective medical and surgical treatment is available for Crohn’s disease. It is particularly important to maintain good nutrition and health with a balanced diet, adequate exercise and a positive upbeat attitude.

Five types of medications are available to treat this disease:

1. Cortisone or Steroids: these powerful drugs provide highly effective results. A large dose is often used initially to bring the disorder under quick control when the disease is severe. The drug is then tapered to a low maintenance dose, perhaps taken just every other day. Hopefully, the drug may eventually be stopped altogether. This medicine is administered by pill or enema. Prednisone is a common generic name.
2. Anti-inflammation Drugs: sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) , Dipentum, Asacol, Rowasa and Pentasa belong to a group of drugs called the 5-aminosalicylates. These drugs are useful in maintaining a remission, once the disease is brought under control. They are most effective when the disease is present in the colon. These are available in oral and enema preparations.
3. Immune System Suppressors: these medications suppress the body’s immune system, which appears to be overly active and somehow aggravates the disease. The names of two of these commonly used medications are azathioprine (trade name: Purinethol). These drugs are particularly useful for  long-term care. These are other potent immune-suppressing drugs that may best used in difficult cases.
4. Infliximab (trade name: Remicade): this drug is the first of a group of medications that blocks the body’s inflammation response. It is given by intravenous infusion over several hours. These blocking antibody drugs are proving to be very effective in many patients with severe disease.
5. Antibiotics: since there is frequently a bacterial infection along with Crohn’s disease, antibiotics are often used to treat this problem. Two that are commonly used to treat this problem. Two that are commonly used are ciprofloxacin (trade name: Cipro) and metronidazole (trade name: Flagyl).

Diet and Emotions

There are no foods known to actually injure the bowel. However, during an acute phase of the disease, bulky foods, milk and milk products may increase diarrhea and cramping. Generally, the patient is advised to eat a well-balanced diet with adequate protein and calories. A multivitamin and iron supplements may be recommended by the physician.

Stress, anxiety and extreme emotions may aggravate symptoms of the disorder but are not believed to cause it or make it worse. Any chronic disease can produce a serious emotional reaction, which can usually be handled through discussion with the physician.

Surgery

Surgery is commonly needed at some time during the course of Crohn’s disease. It may involve removing portion of diseased bowl or simply the draining of an abscess or fistula. In all cases, the guiding principle is to perform the least amount of surgery necessary to correct the problem. Surgery does not cure Crohn’s disease.

Summary

Most people with Crohn’s disease lead active lives with few restrictions. Although there is no known cure for the disorder, it can be managed with present treatments. For a few patients, the course of the disease can be more difficult and complicated, requiring extensive testing and therapy. Surgery sometimes is required. In all cases, follow-up care is essential to treat the disease and prevent or deal with complications that may arise.

Disclaimer: this information was taken from pamphlet from Hackensack Gastroenterology Associates P.A. (201) 489-7772. Please check with your doctor if you have this condition.

Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is the visual examination of the large intestine (colon) using a lighted, flexible fiberoptic or video endoscope. The colon begins in the right-lower abdomen and looks like a big question mark as it moves up and around the abdomen, ending in the rectum. It is 5 to 6 feet long. The colon has a number of functions including withdrawing water from the liquid stool that enters it so that a formed stool is produced.

Equipment:

The flexible colonscope is a remarkable piece of equipment that can be directed and moved around the many bends in the colon.  These colonscopes now come in two ways. The original purely fiberoptic instrument has a flexible bundle of glass fibers that collects the light image at one end and transfers the image to the eye piece. The newer video endoscopes use a tiny, optically sensitive computer chip at the end. Electronic signals are then transmitted up the scope to a computer which displays the image on a large video screen. An open channel in these scopes allows other instruments to be passed through in order to perform biopsies, remove polys or inject solutions.

Reasons for the Exam:

There are many types of problems that can occur in the colon. The medical history, physical exam, laboratory tests and x-rays can provide information useful in making a diagnosis. Directly viewing the inside of the colon by colonoscopy is usually the best exam. Colonoscopy is used for:

*Colon cancer-a serious but highly curable malignancy.

*Polyps-fleshy tumors which usually are the forerunner of colon cancer.

*Colitis (Ulcerative or Crohn’s)-chronic, recurrent inflammation of the colon.

*Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis-pockets along the intestinal wall that develop over time and can become infected.

*Bleeding lesions-bleeding may occur from different points in the colon.

*Abdominal symptoms, such as pain or discomfort, particularly if associated with weight loss or anemia.

*Abnormal barium x-ray exam.

*Chronic diarrhea, constipation or a change in bowel habits.

*Anemia

Preparation:

To obtain the full benefits of the exam, the colon must be clean and free of stool. The patient receiver instructions on how to do this. It involves drinking a solution which flushes the colon clean or taking laxatives and enemas. Usually the patient drinks only clear liquids and eats no food for the day before the exam. The physician advises the patient regarding the use of regular medications during that time.

The Procedure:

Colonoscopy is usually performed on an outpatient basis. The patient is mildly sedated, the endoscope is inserted through the anus and moved gently around the bends of the colon. If a polyp is encountered, a thin wire snare is used to lasso it. Electroncautery  (electrical heat) is applied to painlessly remove it. Other tests can be performed during colonoscopy, including biopsy to obtain a small tissue specimen for microscopic analysis.

The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes and is seldom remembered by the sedated patient. A recovery area is available to monitor vital signs until the patient is fully awake. It is normal to experience mild cramping or abdominal pressure following the exam. This usually subsides in an hour or so.

Results:

After the exam, the physician explains the findings to the patient and family. If the effects of the sedatives are prolonged, the physician may suggest an appointment at a later date. If a biopsy has been performed or a polyp removed, the results of these are not available for three to seven days.

Benefits:

A colonoscopy is performed to identify and/or correct a problem in the colon. The test enables a diagnosis to be made and specific treatment can be given. If a polyp is found during the exam, it can be removed at that time, eliminating the need for a major operation later.

If a bleeding site is identified, treatment can be administered to stop the bleeding. Other treatments can be given through the endoscope when necessary.

Alternative Testing:

Alternative tests to colonoscopy include a barium enema or other types of x-ray exams that outline the colon and allow a diagnosis to be made. Study of the stools and blood can provide indirect information about a colon condition. These exams, however, do not allow direct viewing of the colon, removal of polyps or the completion of the biopsies.

Side Effects and Risks:

Bloating and distension typically occur for about an hour after the exam until the air is expelled. Serious risks with colonoscopy, however, are very uncommon. One such risk is excessive bleeding, especially with the removal of a large polyp. In rare instances, a teat in the lining of the colon can occur. These complications may require hospitalization and rarely surgery. Quite uncommonly a diagnostic error or oversight may occur.

Due to the mild sedation, the patient should not drive or operate machinery following the exam. For this reason, someone should be available to drive the patient home.

Summary:

Colonoscopy is an outpatient exam that is performed with the patient lightly sedated. the procedure provides significant information used to determine which specific treatment will be given. In certain cases, therapy can be administered directly through the endoscope. Serious complications rarely occur from colonoscopy. The physician can answer any questions the patient has.

Disclaimer: This information was provided by the Hackensack Gastroenterology Associates pamphlet for patients. It is important if you are over 50 years old to take this test if there is a history in your family. Please check with your doctor on this test. Please do not delay.

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG): The Housing Authority of Bergen County.

Committed to creating and preserving affordable housing.

Homeless or at risk of becoming homeless?

The purpose of the ESG program is to assist individuals and families to quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis or homelessness. The ESG Grant is received by the County of Bergen Continuum of Care and administered through the HABC.

The Continuum of Care Program is designed to promote communitywide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness, provide funding for efforts to quickly rehouse individuals and families while minimizing the distress caused by dislocation.

Types of assistance available:

*Arrears in rental payments

*Security Deposits

*Rental Assistance (short term)

Had an unexpected event that put you behind on your rent?

Requirements:

Assistance is available to individuals and families who are:

*Homeless;

*Couch-surfing;

*Or otherwise precariously housed.

*Must meet the income limits for very low income.

*Must be able to provide birth certificate for all household members.

*Must be able to provide social security cards for all household members.

Call (201) 336-6490

If you are in need of assistance, please call the number above and leave a message with your full name and phone number. All calls are returned within the next business day.

The HABC does not accept walk ins. You must call the hotline above for your prescreening assessment.

Bergen County Housing Health and Human Services Center: The HABC works in conjunction with the Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center (HHH Center) to house the homeless and at risk population.

*The HHH Center is Bergen County’s homeless center for adult individuals.

*The HHH Center follows has a one-stop model which enables guests to get connected with other service providers in Bergen County.

*The HHH Center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To apply for shelter, individuals may apply in person at:

120 South River Street

Hackensack, NJ  07601

*Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided to guests. Lunch and dinner are provided for individuals and families at risk of homelessness who live in the community.

Lunch: 11:30am-12:30pm

Dinner: 5:00pm-6:00pm

Who We Are:

About Us:

The HABC is an extremely active agency that is very proud of its past accomplishments but at the same time continues to pave the way to do more in providing housing opportunities for all.

Who have developed a significant number of affordable condominium units for families with low and moderate incomes. We have developed over 600 units for the elderly and disabled population in Bergen County since 1964. We administer the largest Housing Choice Voucher program outside of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs in the state with over 3,500 participants. In addition, we partner with the Bergen County Office of Community Development and Continuum of Care to administer housing assistance grants for targeted populations within the community.

Visit our website to see what we are working on now.

Contact Us:

Phone: (201) 336-7600

Email: info@habcnj.org

Web: http://www.habcnj.org

Housing Authority of Bergen County

One Bergen Court Plaza 2nd Floor

Hackensack, NJ 07601

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Housing Authority of Bergen County Pamphlet. I have not used the service so I have no opinion on it, either yes or no to how good the program is but please call or email the above numbers for more information.

The Importance of Fiber:

As fiber, which is also called roughage or bulk, moves through the intestine undigested, it absorbs large amounts of water. This results in softer, bulkier stools, which reduce the pressure against the wall of the colon, easing the passage of waste. There are many health benefits from eating a high fiber diet:

*Better absorption of calcium, which leads to stronger bones.

*Better immunity, which may reduce infections.

*Healthier colon

*Lower rate of obesity.

*Better control of blood sugar.

*More ‘good’ colon bacteria.

*Fewer ‘bad’ colon bacteria.

*More regular bowel movements.

*Fewer toxins in the blood.

How much is enough?

Most Americans only eat 10 to 15 grams of fiber each day but he recommended amounts are much higher:

Recommended Fibers-Grams Per Day

Men:       38 grams (under age 50) and 30 grams (over age fifty)

Women: 25 grams (under age 50) and 21 grams (over age fifty)

The rural African diet, in contrast, is very rich in plant fiber (over 50 grams each day). This speeds up the time required to digest food and expel wastes. Rural Africans digest and eliminate the foods they eat in one-third the time it takes people who live in Western cultures. This may be why they suffer from fewer intestinal diseases than Westerns.

Fiber and Diverticulosis:

Colon diverticulosis occurs when pockets of tissue bulge out from the bowel wall. These pockets are called Diverticuli and they occur gradually over time, due to increased pressure within the bowel. Diverticuli usually cause no problems but sometimes they become infected (diverticulitis) or even break open, causing an abscess (infection) within the abdomen. A high-fiber diet reduces pressure in the colon by increasing the bulk of the stool. This may reduce or even stop the development of diverticulosis or its complications.

Fiber and Heart Disease:

One of the benefits of soluble fiber is that it can lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. This is especially true of oat fiber and the supplement called psyllium. Lower cholesterol levels may help prevent some types of heart disease.

Fiber and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is one of the most common of the lower digestive system. Recent studies suggest that patients with IBS have too many unwanted bacteria inside the colon and mild inflammation within the wall of the colon itself.

IBS is not technically a disease but the inflammation and unwanted bacteria cause unpleasant symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea (or both alternately), bloating, abdominal pain and cramps. Acute episodes can be triggered by emotional tension and anxiety poor eating habits and certain medications.

Eating more fiber can help waste pass more quickly and easily through the colon. However, IBS patients need to be careful when adding fiber to their diet. It should be in a slow and step-wise manner. This is because the extra fiber may produce some harmless gases that would cause bloating. If this happens, reduce the amount of fiber and add it back more slowly.

Fibers Content of Foods:

Breads

Cereals and Pasta

Legumes

Vegetables

Fruits and Nuts

High Fiber Diet

The colon, also called the large intestine, starts in the lower right abdomen and forms a large question mark across the abdomen, ending in the rectum. A primary function of the colon is to dehydrate and shape waste (stool) as it moves toward the rectum. The colon is packed with over 2000 different bacteria. Many of these bacteria provide health benefits to the body. The most beneficial bacteria provide health.  Having lots of these “good” bacteria can reduce the number of cancer-causing substances in the colon. This is why eating plant foods may help protect colon health.

Sources of Fiber:

Fiber is the name for parts of a plant that the human body cannot digest. Fiber is important for maintaining intestinal health, maintaining healthy weight, reducing cholesterol and controlling blood sugar. There are two types of fiber in our food insoluble and soluble.

Insoluble Fiber:

The benefit of insoluble fiber is that it absorbs water but does not dissolve in water. Its moves through the intestine mostly intact. This results in a larger, softer stool and more regular bowel movement. Have a large soft stool prevents disorders such as constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticulosis. It may also help sweep certain toxins and carcinogens out of the body help sweep certain toxins and carcinogens out of the body.

Sources of insoluble fiber:

*Whole Grains

*Corn bran (including popcorn), unflavored and unsweetened

*Nuts and seeds

*Skins from potatoes

*Most green vegetable

*Certain fruits (apples, oranges, bananas, avocados, tomato, kiwi)

Soluble Fiber:

Soluble fibers are digested and used as food by the ‘good’ bacteria in the colon. As the bacteria grow, they produce many health benefits for the body. Most plants have soluble fiber but the following have the highest amounts:

*Oats, rye, barley

*Legumes (peas, beans)

*Fruits (berries, plums, apples, bananas and pears)

*Most root vegetables

*Supplements made from the husk of a plant called psyllium.

Prebiotic Soluble Fiber:

Certain soluble fibers called inulin and fructans are the ones that the beneficial colon bacteria like the most. The best sources of prebiotic soluble fibers are:

*Asparagus

*Yams

*Onions

*Garlic

*Bananas

*Leeks

*Agave

*Chicory and most root vegetables

*Wheat, rye, barley (small amounts)

Fiber and Cancer:

Prebiotic soluble fiber can reduce levels of cancer-causing substances with the colon. This can help prevent the development of tumors in the colon.  There are also other substances in plant food called antioxidants that can help prevent heart disease, eye problems (such as macular degeneration) and some cancers (such as colon and prostate cancer). Eating lots of plant foods which are rich in fiber and antioxidants may therefore help prevent certain diseases.

Fiber and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):

IBD includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Patients with these conditions often have more ‘bad’ bacteria in the colon that ‘good’ ones and often a less diverse population of bacteria. Adding fiber, especially soluble fiber, may help with the long-term management of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Talk to your doctor about diet and IBD.

Dietary Fiber Supplements:

Most fiber supplements are plant-based, although some (such as Citrucel, MiraFiber and multodextrin) are made from chemicals. Psyllium is a type of soluble fiber that comes in many different forms. Prebiotic fibers such as Fiber Choice and Prebiotin, are effective. Go slowly with supplements to allow the bowel to adjust.

Disclaimer: this information was taken directly from the pamphlet from Meducate by GI Supply. Please check with your doctor when making a big change in your diet.