Canadian Digestive Health Foundation (CDHF)

12/24/2022

There is a lot of talk about probiotics these days, but did you know that they come in many forms?

Probiotics can come in:
-Pill forms
-Powder forms
-Certain fermented foods (yogurt and kefir)
-Certain functional foods with added probiotics such as cheese, cereals, drinks and more


It’s important that you talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or dietitian first before taking a probiotic, to ensure you know why you are taking it.
Together, you can select an appropriate probiotic that is the most suitable for you.

Check out one of our CDHF Certified products, Black Diamond® Cheestrings® Probiotic: https://cdhf.ca/en/black-diamond-cheestrings-probiotic-cdhf-certified-product/

Black Diamond

12/23/2022

Is occasional constipation normal?

Constipation is the most frequent gastrointestinal complaint that patients bring up to their physician.

Many factors can contribute to constipation, including:

1. Changes in diet- Eating very sweet of salty foods.
2. Sleepless nights- There is a strong association between insomnia and constipation.
3. Lack of water- If you aren't drinking enough water, it becomes easier for waste to get stuck in the colon and become drier and harder.

Unsure how to treat constipation and/or when to see a doctor?

Read our blog post 'Is occasional constipation normal' to learn more: https://cdhf.ca/en/is-occasional-constipation-normal/

12/22/2022

It's day 10 of our ! Today, we're talking about hemorrhoids. Just reading that word makes some people wince in anticipated pain and discomfort. Hemorrhoids can be embarrassing, uncomfortable and painful, but are rarely a cause for medical concern.

The signs of a hemorrhoid look different depending on their location and other potential complications. Hemorrhoids are often silent visitors, but may leave a few noticeable signs and symptoms, including:

-Discomfort or pain
-Itching
-Blood in stool

Learn more about the causes & signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids: https://cdhf.ca/en/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-a-hemorrhoid/-

12/22/2022

CDHF is excited to announce a new program, Gifts for Gut Health, in support of the Oakville Food Bank!

Across the world, 690 million people go to bed hungry. 1 in 5 Canadians reported going hungry at least once between March 2020 and March 2022. Hunger is a persistent issue, and food banks are one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to ensure that more people are fed.

We know millions of Canadians suffer from a digestive condition, or have specific dietary requirements, but this is not always addressed in food banks.

This holiday season, with your help, the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation would like to support the Oakville Food Bank with food, coupons for full size products, and monetary donations to help those with specific dietary needs.

Learn more about the program and purchase a gift for gut health by making a donation today: https://cdhf.ca/en/gifts-for-guts/

(A recommended donation of $25.00 per gift is recommended.)

Thank you to Black Diamond for your support in this program!

Fourfathersfoodco Activia RISE Kombucha

12/21/2022

While taking a full course of antibiotics is important for getting rid of pathogens, it also damages the commensal “good” gut microbes.

Antibiotics reduce the number of different bacteria in the gut which reduces the diversity of the ecosystem.

If we want to protect the gut microbiome while taking antibiotics, it makes sense to use a probiotic that is resistant to those drugs. As a yeast, S. boulardii CNCM I-745 is the only probiotic resistant to any tested antibiotics!

Learn more about taking probiotics while on antibiotics in our latest blog post: https://cdhf.ca/en/should-you-take-probiotics-while-on-antibiotics/

Florastor Canada

12/21/2022

Ontario is joining several other provinces and territories by expanding the use of biosimilar drug treatments for Ontarians. 🇨🇦

The Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) is implementing some changes to their biologics coverage including a nine-month transition period that is set to start March 31st, 2023 where recipients who are on an originator biologic will begin to transition to a Health Canada approved biosimilar version of the drug at no cost.

For those with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) who are being administered Humira (adalimumab), or Remicade (infliximab) you will be required to transition to a biosimilar. Exemptions to the initiative will be considered on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with their health care provider.

While we believe in patient-physician choice, we acknowledge political policy decisions and our organization is committed to providing clear and unbiased information on biosimilars.

Learn all about the Ontario biosimilars policy: https://cdhf.ca/en/ontario-biosimilars-policy/

12/20/2022

Probiotics are generally defined as live microbes which, when taken in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the person taking them. In plain language, probiotics are “good microbes.” These friendly microbes help us digest food, maintain health, and fight disease.

Recent evidence has shown that probiotics play significant roles in gut microbiome composition.

Having a rich and diverse gut microbiome has become an important biomarker for gut health as numerous studies have observed lower diversity as being associated with various diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), type 1 diabetes, obesity and other health concerns.

Learn more about one of our probiotic CDHF Certified products- The Cultured Coconut! 🥥

https://cdhf.ca/en/the-cultured-coconut/

The Cultured Coconut

12/20/2022

The holidays can be tough for those with digestive conditions- including IBS and Celiac Disease.

Whether you're entertaining or cooking at home, Jamie, a patient with IBS and Celiac Disease, put together some gluten-free and low FODMAP tips and recipes to spice up the season!

View the tips & recipes in full: https://cdhf.ca/en/enjoying-holiday-functions-with-ibs-and-celiac-disease/

12/19/2022

The Pancreas and Pancreatic Cancer - Health Insight

In an article released today with Mediaplanet, CDHF and Craig's Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society share how the pancreas is an important part of the digestive system. Read more here: https://bit.ly/3FBDW8R

View the full campaign here: https://bit.ly/3v4YOAt

The pancreas is an important part of the digestive system. It is a small organ (only about six inches long) that is located in the upper part of the abdomen, behind the stomach and in front of the spine.

12/19/2022

It's day 7 of our !

Approximately 6.8 to 7.4 million Canadians suffer from at least one food intolerance.

If you have a food allergy, your body mistakenly labels something in that food as dangerous, activating the same defense system that fights off invading viruses.

Unlike a food allergy, a food intolerance is a digestive system response and is generally not life-threatening.

Learn more about food intolerances in CDHF's blog post: https://cdhf.ca/en/what-is-a-food-intolerance/

Sperri

12/16/2022

People who are lactose intolerant have unpleasant symptoms after consuming milk or milk products. 🥛

Normally when someone consumes lactose, an enzyme that’s produced in your small intestine called lactase, breaks down lactose into its simpler components (which are simple sugars called glucose and galactose).

However, if you’re lactose intolerant, your body does not make enough lactase to break down lactose!

Learn more about the types of lactose intolerance & answers to common questions here: https://cdhf.ca/en/digestive-conditions/lactose-intolerance/

The Laughing Cow Canada

12/15/2022

During the holidays, many of us travel to visit friends and relatives, and eat lots of comfort foods. Stress, a change in eating habits and travelling can all be contributing factors to constipation.

There are plenty of proven tips and over-the-counter treatments that can prevent constipation and make it easier to pass your stools.

Learn all about treating constipation this holiday season in our latest blog post: https://cdhf.ca/en/what-causes-constipation-and-how-to-get-relief-during-the-holidays/

12/15/2022

It’s day 5 of our !

There is a lot of talk about the low FODMAP diet and what FODMAPs are.

Well, FODMAPs are types of carbohydrates (sugars) found in everyday foods. FODMAPs are carbohydrates that may be poorly absorbed in the small intestine of some people.

If you’re starting out with the low FODMAP diet, knowing which foods are allowed and which ones aren’t can be extremely daunting. Never fear – a little knowledge can go a long way, especially when utilizing Metro’s My Health, My Choices program.

Learn how to manage your symptoms with the low FODMAP diet: https://cdhf.ca/en/the-low-fodmap-diet-what-can-i-eat/

Activia Fody Food Co.

12/14/2022

Although feeling bloated is normal, if accompanied by discomfort and pain, this may be a cause for concern.

However, don’t fear! There are ways to manage your digestive health.

In this 2022 presentation, Andrea Hardy, RD and Kristina Campbell, M.S.c discuss what to do if you are experiencing symptoms such as bloating, gas, reflux and changes in bowel habits.

Watch the full presentation on Demystifying Digestive Issues: https://cdhf.ca/en/demystifying-digestive-issues/



IBgard

12/13/2022

With the holidays quickly approaching, you may experience digestive disruptions including constipation and bloating when eating foods you don't normally eat.

We've outlined our top tips for bloating and constipation in our latest blog post, "How to Aid Healthy Digestion".

Read the full article here: https://cdhf.ca/en/how-to-aid-healthy-digestion/

Dr. Amber Cohen The Cohen Clinic

12/12/2022

CDHF is excited to announce a new program, Gifts for Gut Health, in support of the Oakville Food Bank!

Across the world, 690 million people go to bed hungry. 1 in 5 Canadians reported going hungry at least once between March 2020 and March 2022. Hunger is a persistent issue, and food banks are one of the most efficient and cost-effective ways to ensure that more people are fed.

We know millions of Canadians suffer from a digestive condition, or have specific dietary requirements, but this is not always addressed in food banks.

This holiday season, with your help, the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation would like to support the Oakville Food Bank with food, coupons for full size products, and monetary donations to help those with specific dietary needs.

Learn more about the program and purchase a gift for gut health by making a donation today: https://cdhf.ca/en/gifts-for-guts/

(A recommended donation of $25.00 per gift is recommended.)

Thank you to Black Diamond for your support in this program!

Fourfathersfoodco Activia RISE Kombucha

12/12/2022

It's day two of our !🎁

You may be surprised to know that lactose intolerance is fairly common! By adulthood, up to 70% of people no longer produce enough lactase to properly digest the lactose in milk, resulting in uncomfortable symptoms when consuming dairy. 🐮

Learn how to manage lactose intolerance here: https://cdhf.ca/en/what-is-lactose-intolerance-symptoms-and-treatment/

12/09/2022

It’s the season of giving! To get in the spirit, CDHF will be sharing a new “tummy tip” each day for the next 12 days, from some of our most commonly asked questions of the year! 🎁

First up, what’s the difference between a probiotic and a prebiotic?

While they sound similar, they are very different and have different roles in gut health. Learn all about what they are, their benefits, and ways to get more of them in your diet here: https://cdhf.ca/en/probiotics-vs-prebiotics/

Be sure to follow along with our campaign for the rest of the year with , and be sure to share on your socials!

12/08/2022

Introducing the revitalized CDHF website.

Fast. Easy to navigate. Mobile-friendly. Bursting with credible information you need to protect and enhance your digestive health.

Available in both English and French.

Explore the new CDHF.ca today: www.cdhf.ca

12/07/2022

There is a strong connection between our gut and mental health. 🧠

The neurotransmitters that help us feel calm and happy (i.e. serotonin and dopamine) are mainly produced in the gut. Therefore, if you struggle with a digestive condition, you will likely benefit from some mind-body activities that can help with your mental health. 🧘🏼‍♂️

Learn more about the mind-gut connection and ways to manage your mental health here: https://cdhf.ca/en/the-link-between-the-gut-and-mental-health/

Dr. Amber Cohen The Cohen Clinic

12/06/2022

Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation, also referred to as IBS-C, is a distressing condition that can significantly affect the quality of life of those affected.

Treatment will depend on the severity of your IBS-C.

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide on ways to manage IBS-C.
For more information, visit: https://cdhf.ca/en/how-to-treat-and-manage-ibs-c/

12/05/2022

Constipation is the most frequent gastrointestinal complaint that patients bring up to their physician.

For many, our gastrointestinal tract follows a regular schedule of bowel movements. It could lead to as many as 3 bowel movements a day or as few as 3 bowel movements in a week. If this delicate schedule is disrupted, it can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms and constipation.

Learn all about the causes of and treatments for occasional constipation in our latest blog post:https://cdhf.ca/en/is-occasional-constipation-normal/

12/01/2022

It’s ! 💩

Paying attention to our p**ps is important, as they’re a pretty good indication on whether or not our insides are functioning properly!

Colour, texture, and frequency should all be monitored carefully.

Learn all about healthy, constipated and watery p**ps by reading our article, ‘Is My P**p Healthy/Normal’: https://cdhf.ca/en/is-my-p**p-healthy-normal/

11/30/2022

Today is the last day of !

If you or your loved one are looking to start a family, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure a happy and healthy pregnancy!

Learn all about the risks of pregnancy with active IBD, breastfeeding with IBD and more in our IBD and Pregnancy infographic: https://cdhf.ca/en/ibd-and-pregnancy/

11/29/2022

Notes from our supporters like this are why we do what we do!

We appreciate and rely on all of the contributions we receive from the public, and will continue to share up-to-date and necessary resources for the millions of Canadians with digestive conditions.

This , please consider donating to CDHF so we can help Canadians better manage their digestive health!

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/cdhf-canadian-digestive-health-foundation/

11/29/2022

Last week, Black Friday was the official opening of the holiday shopping season.

Today is Giving Tuesday, which marks the start of a new season.. the giving season!

This is the day when people around the world give to their favourite causes.

CDHF is a national charitable organization that needs your support so we can continue to build the trusted and reliable resources that impact the health and quality of life of you and the people you love.

We are committed to providing useful, up-to-date information and research to help Canadians better manage digestive conditions and live healthier lives.

Please consider helping us by providing a donation. Every tiny bit helps so much. Thank you!

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/cdhf-canadian-digestive-health-foundation/

🎁

11/28/2022

IBD Awareness Month is ending soon, but our resources keep coming!

In Canada, a patient with IBD's care will be transferred to adult health care providers once they turn 18. However, the transition of care can begin as early as 12 years old.

We're sharing our IBD Transition Checklist for Patients and Parents to guide you on the tasks and responsibilities you will assume as you transition your care from early to late adolescence.

Learn more by reading our latest article: https://cdhf.ca/en/ibd-transition-checklist-for-patients-and-parents/

11/28/2022

Are you unable to pay for a dietitian consult, but would like to speak to one? Do you suffer from a digestive condition?

If you answered YES to the above, this program is for you.

In collaboration with University of Calgary, and Pfizer Canada, CDHF’s Equity in Nutrition Care Program will be offering FREE online dietitian consultations for individuals to access specialized dietary and nutritional recommendations for their condition. We believe health equity is achieved when everyone can attain their full potential for health and well-being.

❗️Now open to ALL digestive conditions ❗️

Apply today: https://lyfemd.practicebetter.io/?fbclid=IwAR06PDPjT8iLSQ64SVKuq_RUkap8Ait-SdUUY5vRIYuy6GxJuxaPFo3iHEA#/62b4d3f3f05e77fee33979a1/bookings?r=6357044a185eadbf2fabf3f4&step=services