Have you recently experienced tummy troubles? If so, you’re not alone. Digestive diseases are affecting an increasing number of Americans.

WellTuned spoke with Dr. Monica Peeler, a medical director for BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee to learn why more people are experiencing problems that affect their stomachs.

Obesity fueling growth in digestive issues

Dr. Peeler: Genetics play a role in some digestive disorders. For example, celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have genetic components.

Some digestive disorders are associated with obesity, which has been on the rise. In fact, more than 50% of adults are considered obese now. Excess weight can cause or exacerbate certain conditions. For example, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be caused by pressure in the abdominal area from excess weight.

Also, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and gallbladder disease are increasingly common. These diseases are associated with high obesity rates.

The gut-brain connection seems to also be responsible for some stomach disorders. While experts don’t know the exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), they consider it a neuro-gastrointestinal disorder. That means it’s related to a problem with the way that your brain and gut communicate with each other.

Most common digestive issues

Dr. Peeler: Almost everyone has an occasional experience with diarrhea, constipation or heartburn. But for some, digestive problems are long-lasting, or chronic.

Other common digestive issues include:

• gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• ulcers
• Crohn’s disease
• diverticulitis
• celiac disease.

Colorectal cancer is also the second-most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S.

6 strategies for managing stomach issues

Dr. Peeler: Living with a digestive disorder isn’t easy, but you can take steps to reduce some of your symptoms.

1. Improve your diet.

In some cases, losing weight may be necessary. Eating a high-fiber diet with lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help with that.

Also, certain foods can cause or exacerbate certain problems. For example, a high-fat, low-fiber diet can contribute to gallstones, constipation and acid reflux.

Some people may need to eliminate or limit certain foods. These could include milk and dairy products, beans, and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage, etc.). For some people with IBS, a low FODMAP diet may help by cutting out certain carbs and sugar alcohols that may cause stomach pain and bloating.

2. Get more exercise.

Physical activity can help keep your gut healthy. Exercise improves gut motility, or movement. An active lifestyle can help keep your digestive system moving at a healthy pace. Regular exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight.

3. Tackle your stress.

Stress can affect your gut. Practices like mindfulness meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can help.

4. Limit your alcohol use.

Alcohol can change the balance of the microorganisms that live in your gut. Also, when your body breaks down the alcohol, it creates byproducts called metabolites. Some of those can be harmful or toxic and may make you feel sick, like throwing up or having headaches, often referred to as a hangover. If they continue to build up, over time it can damage organs like the heart, liver and brain.

5. Stop smoking.

Smoking isn’t only bad for the heart and lungs. It’s also toxic to your digestive system. In fact, people who smoke are more likely to develop peptic ulcers and heartburn. Smoking increases the risk of gallstones and Crohn’s disease. It also increases the cancer risk in organs in the digestive system.

6. Get regular checkups.

Talk with your doctor about screenings for liver function, colon health and other digestive conditions. The earlier a health condition gets diagnosed, the sooner you can begin treatment.

More from Dr. Peeler on WellTuned

Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.