Programme 5: Limerick
Digestive Disorders
Coeliac disease
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disease which is triggered by the protein gluten found in wheat, barley and rye. Coeliac disease affects the lining of the small intestine.The gut is covered in millions of tiny tube-shaped growths called villi, which increase the surface area and help absorb nutrients.
If you have coeliac disease any gluten that you eat is attacked by your immune system. This causes inflammation and flattens the villi, making it difficult to absorb nutrients. Untreated coeliac disease can lead to diarrhoea, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, anaemia and osteoporosis. It can be controlled by a strict gluten-free diet.
The Coeliac Society of Ireland
Tel: 00 353 (0) 90 64 98379
www.coeliac.ie
A Gluten Free Food List is available from the Coeliac Society of Ireland.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel syndrome is a chronic disorder that affects the digestive system. It causes painful spasms, these can result in trapped wind and can lead to severe pain. Things that help are anti-spasmodic medicines, peppermint products.and a diet high in soluble fibre (fruits, vegetables, oat bran, barley, seed husks, flax seed, dried beans, lentils, peas, soya milk and soya products). Managing stress can be a key element which includes exercise and finding ways to relax.
Oesophagitus and Diverticular disease
Oesophagitus is an inflammation of the oesophagus, the tube that connects your throat to the stomach. It is caused by repeated incidents of gastric reflux.
Diverticular disease occurs lower down the digestive system in the colon. Over the years small pouches called diverticula can develop on the side of the large intestine and this can cause problems.
The key to treating diverticular disease and reducing your risk of developing the condition is to eat 18 to 30 g of fibre a day. Eating five portions of fruit and veg will help, as well as eating high fibre foods like whole grain cereals, wholemeal bread, pasta and beans.
Other conditions:
(Inguinal) Hernia
The definition of a hernia is where the contents of one cavity moves into another cavity through a weakness in the enclosing tissues. There are lots of different types of hernia. Treatment may involve surgery where the protruding tissue is pushed back and the surrounding muscles then strengthened by synthetic mesh.
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Programme 5: Useful Information
Clare Dowling
Web: claredowling.co.uk
Pilates:
University of Limerick
Arena Sports Centre
Castletroy
Limerick
Location Details:
Limerick City Youth Service
Glentworth St
Limerick
0036361 412444
