Skip to main content

Digestive Health Archive

Articles

Common celiac disease symptoms

Celiac disease affects everyone differently. While some people develop digestive symptoms, such as bloating and diarrhea, many adults also experience non-digestive symptoms, such as anemia or osteoporosis. Others have no noticeable symptoms despite intestinal damage.

What are the risks of an Rh mismatch in a transfusion?

Blood type compatibility matters during transfusions, and an Rh mismatch can create risks that may not appear immediately.

Does a colonoscopy affect blood donation?

A recent colonoscopy may raise questions before you donate blood, but the reason behind this screening question may surprise you.

What can cause enlarged red blood cells?

Enlarged red blood cells on a routine blood test can have several explanations. Find out what your results may mean and when follow-up is needed.

Routine cancer screenings for older adults: Mammograms, colonoscopies, PSA tests, and more

Most cancer screening guidelines recommend an upper age limit to cease regular testing. But older adults should ask their doctor whether the benefits of continuing screening outweigh the risks, which may include unnecessary treatments and potentially dangerous complications.

Why might your GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase) level be elevated?

An elevated GGT result can have several explanations, from supplements and pain relievers to underlying liver conditions.

What is causing my low sodium level?

A low sodium result can have several explanations, and the clues often come from your medications, fluid balance, and overall health.

Could your heartburn medicine interfere with Plavix?

A common heartburn treatment may interact with an important heart medicine. Find out what to watch for and which options doctors may consider instead.

Are you eating too much fiber?

Most Americans need more fiber, but going well beyond recommended amounts offers no proven added benefit and can cause uncomfortable side effects. Instead, boost fiber slowly and spread it out over the day, favor whole foods over supplements, and drink plenty of fluids.

Greek yogurt: Health benefits, protein content, and how to choose the best option

Compared with regular yogurt, Greek yogurt delivers double the protein with fewer carbs—but also less calcium. Both types provide probiotics and are generally easier to digest than other dairy products. Look for unflavored versions or those with fewest added sugars, and limit saturated fat.

Free Healthbeat Signup

Get the latest in health news delivered to your inbox!

Sign Up
Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Thanks for visiting. Don't miss your FREE 32-page gift worth $29.95.

PLUS, don’t miss out on your 25% off promo code.

Sign up to get tips for living a healthy lifestyle—You’ll discover powerful, research- backed strategies for health longevity drawn from Harvard Medical School experts—ways to eat for a longer life, build strength and flexibility to stay independent, protect your bones, heart, and brain as you age, and even cultivate the habits linked with “super-agers” who stay sharp and active well into their 80s and 90s—all delivered to your email box FREE.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of Living Longer, Living Well!.

Harvard Health Publishing Logo

Stay on top of latest health news from Harvard Medical School.

Plus, get a FREE copy of Living Longer, Living Well.