Gut health is important for everyone; however, many men tend to ignore it. In a study done by Bupa Health Clinic, researchers found that six in ten men, which is about 58% men admitted to ignoring their issues, simply hoping it goes away. However, not everyone gets the result they want. Ignoring the issue only leads to making it worse. To educate people more about this Dr Vivian Asamoah, a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist based in Texas, shared a video detailing points men must know about their gut health. 10 Gut Health Fact Every Man Should Know Dr Asamoah titled the video, ‘After Years in Gastroenterology, Here’s What Every Man Must Know About His Gut Health Before It’s Too Late.’ She listed these 10 points warning men of how things can go wrong if they are not careful. Listen to Your Partner The doctor explains that it is important to take the advice of your loved ones. If she or he tells you to "see a GI" a gastrointestinal doctor, please listen. Partners often notice subtle changes in your health, energy, or bathroom habits that you might be ignoring. They care about you, and their suggestion to see a specialist is a helpful nudge, not a nagging complaint. A Colonoscopy is Not a Prostate Exam Colonoscopies are for everyone, men and women. Do not assume that your primary care doctor or urologist checked your colon when they examined your prostate. The two organs are different, and checking the colon requires a separate, specific procedure. Getting a colonoscopy is essential for catching colon cancer early. Your Family History Isn't a Shield Saying "My dad never had colon cancer" won't protect you. While genetics matter, cancer rates are changing, and doctors are seeing colon cancer in younger people than ever before. Guidelines suggest starting screenings earlier for many people. You need to get screened based on your doctor’s advice, not just your dad's health history. Snoring Can Be a Serious Problem Loud, consistent snoring is not normal or just funny. It could be a sign of sleep apnea, a condition where you repeatedly stop and start breathing while you sleep. Sleep apnea can make acid reflux (heartburn) worse because it creates pressure changes in your chest. Get your snoring checked out—it affects your heart, brain, and gut. Tobacco Harms More Than Your Lungs You know that smoking and chewing tobacco damage your lungs, but tobacco is also a major risk factor for colon cancer. The harmful chemicals are absorbed into your bloodstream and affect your entire body, including your digestive tract. Quitting all forms of tobacco is one of the best things you can do for your gut health. The Colonoscopy Procedure is Safe and Life-Saving Yes, a colonoscopy examines the colon area, but it is a necessary and life-saving procedure, not something to dread or feel ashamed of. Doctors use it to find and remove small growths (polyps) before they turn into cancer. You are typically asleep during the procedure, and it is quick and painless. The brief embarrassment is worth the benefit of preventing deadly cancer. That "Pot Belly" is Dangerous That rounded belly is often caused by visceral fat, which is fat stored deep inside your abdomen, wrapped around your organs. This is not a badge of honor, it's dangerous because this type of fat actively releases hormones and compounds that lead to serious problems like heart disease, diabetes, and colon cancer. Losing that deep abdominal fat is crucial for a healthy gut and body. Focus on Consistency, Not Competition A healthy person typically poops 1 to 3 times per day. There is no prize for going more often than your wife or anyone else. What matters is that your bathroom routine is consistent and comfortable for you. If you have sudden, unexplained changes in how often you go, or if your stool looks different, talk to your doctor. Beer is Still Alcohol Don't let the "I'm just having a beer" excuse fool you. Beer is alcohol, and drinking any type of alcohol puts stress on your liver, the organ responsible for filtering toxins. Your liver keeps score of how much you drink over time. Heavy or regular alcohol use seriously increases your risk for liver disease and can also contribute to acid reflux and other gut issues. Improve Meat Quality, Not Just Gluten Intake Not everyone needs to stop eating gluten, but almost everyone could benefit from making smarter choices about red meat. Red meat, especially processed kinds, has been linked to increased colon cancer risk. Try to eat less red meat or, if you do eat it, choose cleaner, grass-fed sources. Focus on adding more fiber-rich vegetables, fruits, and whole grains to your diet.
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