The critical role of diet and nutrition in managing inflammatory bowel disease

The persistent inflammation during inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can severely harm the GI tract. There are several symptoms of IBD, which produce discomfort, frequent bowel movements, blood in stools, loss of weight, and tiredness, which have an impact on the lives of patients and their nutritional health. Managing IBD involves paying attention to diet and nutrition. It is important to identify trigger foods for each individual using methods like keeping food diaries or following plans recommended by dietitians that are low in residue or FODMAPs. Nutritional deficiencies, common in IBD, require attention to prevent malnutrition, muscle wasting, and complications. Having a proper dietary plan and accounting for disease characteristics and patient preferences is essential. Also, medication interactions are important during dietary monitoring. Dehydration, affecting many IBD patients, underscores the importance of maintaining fluid intake. An approach to managing IBD requires teamwork among healthcare professionals, dietitians, and patients. It involves customizing plans and combining them with medical treatments to achieve the best possible control over the disease.

Prevalence of Smoking among Patients Attending Cardiac Clinic in Gaza Strip.

The aims of the study were to determine the prevalence of tobacco smoking among patients attending private clinic and to examine the socio-demographic correlates of smoking in Gaza City. A retrospective study was carried out. The case records of all patients attending private chest clinic Abu Tawelia in Gaza City from 2006-2014 were included. A total number of 1034 records of patients was included. The sample consisted of 514 males (49.85%) and 518 females (50.15%). The patients age ranged from 18 to 90 years with mean age of 54.7 years. Overall, the smoking prevalence was of 19.2%. Males smoked more than females (16.3% vs. 2.9% of total sample). Most current smokers smoked cigarettes (82.5%), but the use of Shisha was also common (17.5%). Mean smoking years was 26.16. Smoking prevailed in patients with age ranging from 28 to 58 years (48.5%). A bit less than 40% of smokers has started before 20 years of age. Health-promotion activities should be established to decrease the prevalence of smoking and prevent future adverse health outcomes.