{"id":58526,"date":"2024-12-09T21:44:23","date_gmt":"2024-12-09T21:44:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cdhf.staging.not4prod.com\/?p=58526"},"modified":"2024-12-09T21:59:07","modified_gmt":"2024-12-09T21:59:07","slug":"obesity-and-digestion-whats-the-connection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/obesity-and-digestion-whats-the-connection\/","title":{"rendered":"Obesity and Digestion- What&#8217;s the Connection?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/health-canada\/services\/healthy-living\/your-health\/lifestyles\/obesity.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Obesity<\/a> is a chronic disease that can be a risk factor for other medical conditions including various digestive health disorders.<sup> <\/sup>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statcan.gc.ca\/o1\/en\/plus\/5742-overview-weight-and-height-measurements-world-obesity-day\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">prevalence of obesity<\/a> in Canada is on the rise with an increase from 21% of adult Canadians in 2003 compared to 30% in 2022.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you\u2019re living with obesity, what are ways you can support your gut health in a practical way? Learn more about simple nutrition and lifestyle solutions you can focus on that can help!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and Digestive Disorders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Obesity is a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/obesity-and-overweight\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">chronic disease<\/a> where there is an excessive accumulation of fat deposits in the body. Obesity could have impacts on someone\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7019431\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">digestive symptoms<\/a> by:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Increasing abdominal pressure which could cause acid reflux&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changes in bowel motility or how quickly food passes through the digestive tract&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increase in pro-inflammatory proteins that could impact risk of inflammatory bowel disease&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changes in the gut microbiome depending on foods consumed&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Obesity is a complex disease that can feel difficult to navigate but there are lifestyle management tips outside of weight loss than can support your symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Obesity and Digestion- What&#039;s the Connection?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Tj6hOc4gkhI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and Esophageal Disease<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/digestive-conditions\/gerd\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Esophageal diseases<\/a> are conditions that effect your esophagus, or the tube that passes food from your mouth to your stomach.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">GERD<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GERD (or gastroesophageal reflux disease) is where stomach contents move into the esophagus or our mouth. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gastrojournal.org\/article\/S0016-5085(17)35977-2\/fulltext\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GERD symptoms<\/a> are usually heartburn or even vomiting of food. Obesity can increase pressure in our abdomen causing the relaxation of muscles that block food from our stomach from entering our esophagus (the esophageal sphincter).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/GERD-and-Obesity-1024x461.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58527 lazyload\"\/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/GERD-and-Obesity-1024x461.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-58527 lazyload\"\/><\/noscript><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tips for GERD:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Work with a Dietitian to determine if there are possible <a href=\"https:\/\/journals.lww.com\/ajg\/fulltext\/2022\/01000\/acg_clinical_guideline_for_the_diagnosis_and.14.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">trigger foods<\/a> that may worsen your symptoms like high fat foods, carbonated beverages or citrus foods&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Aim for a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8055252\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">2-3 hour interval<\/a> between your last meal and sleep&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slow down at meals instead of eating quickly&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Obesity and Digestion- The Effects on Our Upper GI Tract\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PSWQDbe80wY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Barrett&#8217;s Esophagus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/digestive-conditions\/barretts-esophagus\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Barrett\u2019s esophagus<\/a> is a change to tissue structure in your esophagus. The acid from your stomach entering your esophagus when you have GERD can cause tissue lining damage. Obesity related GERD may increase risk for Barrett\u2019s esophagus making <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8999972\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">management of GERD<\/a> important for disease prevention.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Esophageal Cancer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/esophageal-cancer-symptoms-diagnosis-and-treatments\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Esophageal cancer<\/a> is cancer in the esophagus. The higher risk of GERD amongst those with obesity may increase risk of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4231518\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">esophageal cancer<\/a> due to prolonged damage of the esophagus. Esophageal cancer can cause many forms of malnutrition related to pain and swallowing difficulties or blockages in the esophagus making it difficult to eat.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tips for Esophageal Diseases:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Work with your doctor and care team to manage your GERD to prevent other esophageal diseases like Barrett\u2019s esophagus or esophageal cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and the Gallbladder<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The gall bladder is an organ that stores and releases bile. Bile is an important fluid made by the liver to help digest and break down fat we consume.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A common gall bladder disease is <a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/what-are-gallstones\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">gall stones<\/a>, also called cholelithiasis. These gall stones are small, hard crystals that develop in the gall bladder. If these stones are large, they can cause symptoms of gall bladder pain called biliary colic due to the blockage of cystic ducts (the tube that carries bile from the gall bladder).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8543292\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gallstone disease<\/a> can occur in both those who do or do not have obesity. Excess body weight is linked to increased cholesterol metabolism. One reason for this is obesity may impact insulin resistance or increase insulin levels. This increase in insulin can cause large amounts of cholesterol secretion by the liver, leading to more cholesterol-dense bile and subsequently production of gall stones.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tips for Gallstones:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Increased intakes of <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/35907868\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">fruits and vegetables<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure you <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28554328\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">meet your energy needs<\/a> since a very low-calorie diet can increase risk of gallstones&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Opting for unsaturated fats more often in your diet&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and the Intestine<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The intestines include both the small and large intestine. It\u2019s a very important part of our digestive system since it is where the nutrients we eat are absorbed and used by our body like macronutrients, vitamins, minerals and water.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Irritable Bowel Syndrome<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/digestive-conditions\/irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Irritable bowel syndrome<\/a> is a disorder impacting the intestines due to how food passes through the bowels or how our brain interprets signals from the digestive tract. Common symptoms are abdominal pain and varied bowel patterns including frequency and types of bowel movements (constipation, diarrhea or a mix of both).&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are limited <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26838486\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">research findings<\/a> around the association of IBS and obesity but some individuals do report continued symptoms even if other factors are corrected. Symptoms are often IBS-M with mixed symptoms of both constipation and diarrhea. Some <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31228102\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">potential reasons<\/a> for IBS in obesity could be (but may not limited to just those with obesity):&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Dietary choices including higher fat, lower fibre diets or poorly absorbed carbohydrates. Food options may be limited because of IBS symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduction in activity levels&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Larger body weight increasing severity of digestive symptoms&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>BMI may be inversely correlated with transit time in the colon&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stress and mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, fatigue) impacting gut motility&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tips for IBS:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Working with a Dietitian to help determine foods trigger and adding nutrient dense foods back into your meals&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Crohn&#8217;s Disease<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/digestive-conditions\/ibd-crohns-disease\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Crohn\u2019s disease<\/a> is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can occur at any part of the digestive tract. It is estimated that <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34169900\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">15-40%<\/a> of those with IBD also have obesity. Crohn\u2019s disease symptoms <a href=\"https:\/\/crohnsandcolitis.ca\/About-Crohn-s-Colitis\/Signs-Symptoms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">include<\/a>:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Abdominal pain&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loose stools&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduced appetite&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sores anywhere between the mouth and anus.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31779136\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Obesity<\/a> can encourage a low-grade inflammatory environment in the body due to visceral adiposity (abdominal fat) releasing signals that affect the function of the intestinal barrier.&nbsp; Impaired gut barrier function can be a feature in obesity, which allows bacteria to move into parts of the bowels it normally is not found. There is some evidence to show that obesity may have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8132647\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">protective factors<\/a> for Crohn\u2019s disease.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Obesity may influence a patient\u2019s response to drug therapy. Obesity can affect how a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC10080699\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">drug works<\/a> by altering how the drug is absorbed, metabolized and cleared from the body. For Crohn\u2019s disease and IBD surgery, obesity may increase time in surgery or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC9262757\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">post operative<\/a> complications (infections and wound complications).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no one special Crohn\u2019s disease diet but it can feel difficult to tolerate certain foods due to your digestive symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ulcerative Colitis<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/digestive-conditions\/ibd-ulcerative-colitis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ulcerative colitis<\/a> is an inflammatory bowel disease of the large intestine, specifically the colon. Many connections relating obesity to ulcerative colitis are like that in Crohn\u2019s disease.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The evidence is mixed for outcomes with those with obesity and ulcerative colitis. Some studies show that obesity may increase of hospitalization and surgery for those with ulcerative colitis, but other findings note <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25799938\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">reduction of risk<\/a> for complications.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tips for Inflammatory Bowel Disease:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/crohnsandcolitis.ca\/About-Crohn-s-Colitis\/IBD-Journey\/Diet-and-Nutrition-in-IBD\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Working with a Dietitian<\/a> is helpful to determine which foods are best for you and meeting your nutritional needs while managing symptoms.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure you are continuing any prescribed medications by your Gastroenterologist to reduce disease activity and keep you in remission.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorporate movement and exercise into your daily routine to lower risk of active IBD disease and help with your stress management.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and The Pancreas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The pancreas is an organ responsible for producing enzymes to digest food. It also produces two hormones (insulin and glucagon) that help with blood sugar management. <a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/digestive-conditions\/pancreatitis\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pancreatitis<\/a> is when the pancreas gets inflamed and damaged.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are two types: acute and chronic <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niddk.nih.gov\/health-information\/digestive-diseases\/pancreatitis\/symptoms-causes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pancreatitis<\/a>. Common symptoms of pancreatitis are abdominal pains, fever, foul smell stools (due to fat malabsorption) and possible weight loss. Some causes of pancreatitis are gall stones, heavy alcohol consumption, and smoking.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Obesity is a risk factor of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6640854\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">acute pancreatitis<\/a> due to the higher incidence of related diseases like:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gallstones causing blockages in pancreatic ducts&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High triglycerides impairing blood flow to the organ tissue&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For those with pancreatitis, obesity may worsen <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37648552\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">symptoms<\/a> and outcomes due to the visceral fat in or around the pancreas.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tips for Pancreatitis<\/strong>:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reducing alcohol intakes and smoking cessation program can be useful for pancreatitis prevention.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and the Liver<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.liver.ca\/your-liver\/#about-the-liver\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">liver<\/a> is an important organ with many responsibilities like regulating your body\u2019s supply of energy, hormones and cholesterol, produces bile and helps metabolize and remove toxins.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (<a href=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/what-is-metabolic-dysfunction-associated-steatotic-liver-disease-masld-causes-and-symptoms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">MASLD<\/a>) is the most common liver disease in North America. It is characterized by an accumulation of fat in the liver, with those that do not have a history of large alcohol consumption. It is a common cause of other chronic liver diseases like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6367583\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NASH<\/a>) due to its inflammatory progression.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common cause of MASLD in Canada is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.liver.ca\/patients-caregivers\/liver-diseases\/fatty-liver-disease\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">obesity<\/a>. Excess body fat, especially an increase in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC10661876\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">visceral fat<\/a> around the abdomen, is linked to MASLD. Some <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC9346467\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">reasons<\/a> include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Excess fat in obesity may be stored in the liver&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Possible increase in inflammatory proteins that are derived from adipose (fat) tissues&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Higher risk of metabolic syndrome in those with obesity which is associated with MASLD&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other causes are sedentary lifestyles and eating larger amounts of refined carbohydrates and high fat foods.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Practical Tips for Liver Disease:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Incorporate physical activity you enjoy into your weekly routine&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work with a Dietitian to add nutrient dense foods into your diet and supporting healthy weight management&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and Other Chronic Health Conditions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe title=\"Obesity and Chronic Conditions\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/PLqHtYmkIwo?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Obesity is a risk factor for various chronic health conditions. <a href=\"https:\/\/obesitycanada.ca\/understanding-obesity\/health-impacts-obesity\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Obesity Canada<\/a> breaks these conditions into 4 categories:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mechanical health including sleep apnea, GERD and osteoarthritis&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Mental health including depression, anxiety and low self esteem&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monetary health including influences on education, cost of living and cost of weight management programs&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Metabolic health including hypertension, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Obesity and Diabetes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.diabetes.ca\/about-diabetes-(3)\/what-is-diabetes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Diabetes<\/a> is a condition where the body does not produce enough insulin or is unable to properly use the insulin it makes. Insulin is a hormone that helps our bodies regulate blood sugars. There are various forms of diabetes including:&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Type 1: An autoimmune disease where the body is unable to make its own insulin&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Type 2: The body is unable to properly use the insulin produced or cannot produce enough. About 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gestational: A temporary form of diabetes occurring during pregnancy&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is estimated that 80-90% of individuals with type 2 diabetes are overweight or have obesity. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8740746\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Obesity<\/a>, its related abdominal fat distribution and liver\/muscle triglyceride content can cause both insulin resistance and dysfunction of cells that make insulin.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>&nbsp;Practical Tips for Diabetes:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.diabetes.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Diabetes Canada<\/a> has many practical resources to support managing your diabetes in inclusive and positive ways&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key take-aways:&nbsp;<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Obesity is a complex chronic disease that can have direct and indirect impacts on our digestive health conditions&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There are many dietary and lifestyle factors we can control to support our health including food and beverage choices and exercise and movement.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It\u2019s important to work with your care practitioners (including Family Doctor, Nurse Practitioner, Pharmacist and Dietitian) to receive the best customized care for you!&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Conclusion:<\/strong>\u202f&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Positive health outcomes can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Weight loss is a common recommendation for those with diabetes, but this can feel difficult due to resources and access to healthy food choices, stress, managing many chronic health conditions and having the supports around you to encourage your health journey.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fortunately, there are many lifestyle changes we can positively action on that is more than the number on the scale. This article provides many of those tools to get you started!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"gradient-divider\"><\/div><div class=\"sponsor-block\"><p><p>This resource was made possible due to an unrestricted educational grant from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.novonordisk.ca\/\">Novo Nordisk<\/a>.<\/p><\/p><div class=\"sponsor-details\"><div class=\"photo\" >\n<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.novonordisk.ca\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/novo-logo.webp\"  \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/novo-logo.webp\"  \/><\/noscript><\/a>\n<\/div>\n        <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>References:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Government of Canada. Obesity. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/health-canada\/services\/healthy-living\/your-health\/lifestyles\/obesity.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/health-canada\/services\/healthy-living\/your-health\/lifestyles\/obesity.html<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Statistics Canada. (March 2024). An overview of weight and height measurements on World Obesity Day <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statcan.gc.ca\/o1\/en\/plus\/5742-overview-weight-and-height-measurements-world-obesity-day\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.statcan.gc.ca\/o1\/en\/plus\/5742-overview-weight-and-height-measurements-world-obesity-day<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>World Health Organization. (March 2024). Obesity and overweight. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/obesity-and-overweight\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/obesity-and-overweight<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Emerenziani, S. (2020). Role of Overweight and Obesity in Gastrointestinal Disease. <em>Nutrients<\/em>. 12(1):111 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC7019431\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">doi: 10.3390\/nu12010111<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Richter, J., Rubenstein, J. (2018). Presentation and Epidemiology of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. <em>Gastroenterology.<\/em>154(2): 267\u2013276. doi:\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.1053%2Fj.gastro.2017.07.045\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.1053\/j.gastro.2017.07.045<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Katz, P. Dunbar, K., Schnoll-Sussman, F., Greer, K., Yadlapati, R., Spechler, S. (2022) ACG Clinical Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. <em>American Journal of Gastroenterology<\/em>. 117(1):27-56. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/doi.org\/10.14309\/ajg.0000000000001538\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.14309\/ajg.0000000000001538<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Zhang, M. Hou, Z., Huang, Z., Chen, X., Liu, F. (2021).Dietary and Lifestyle Factors Related to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: A Systematic Review. <em>Therapeutics and Clinic Risk Management.<\/em>17:305-323. doi:\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8055252\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.2147\/TCRM.S296680<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bilski, J. Pinkas, M., Wojcik-Grzybek, D. (2022) Role of Obesity, Physical Exercise, Adipose Tissue-Skeletal Muscle Crosstalk and Molecular Advances in Barrett\u2019s Esophagus and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma. <em>International Journal of Molecular Sciences.<\/em> 23(7): 3942.doi:\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8999972\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.3390\/ijms23073942<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Alexandre, L., Long, E., Beales, I. (2014). Pathophysiological mechanisms linking obesity and esophageal adenocarcinoma. <em>World Journal of Gastrointestinal Pathophysiology. 5(4): 534\u2013549.<\/em> <em>doi:\u202f<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4231518\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>10.4291\/wjgp.v5.i4.534<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;<\/em>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parra-Landazury, N., Cordova-Gallardo, J. (2021) Obesity and Gallstones. <em>Visceral Medicine. 37(5): 394\u2013402. doi:\u202f<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8543292\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8543292\/<\/em><\/a><em>&nbsp;<\/em>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wang Y, Lu J, Wen N, Nie G, Peng D, Xiong X, Cheng N, Li B. The role of diet and nutrition related indicators in biliary diseases: an umbrella review of systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2022 Jul 30;19(1):51. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/35907868\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.1186\/s12986-022-00677-1<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Di Ciaula A, Garruti G, Fr\u00fchbeck G, De Angelis M, de Bari O, Wang DQ, Lammert F, Portincasa P. The Role of Diet in the Pathogenesis of Cholesterol Gallstones. Curr Med Chem. 2019;26(19):3620-3638. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/28554328\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.2174\/0929867324666170530080636<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pugliese, G., Muscogiuri, G., Barrea, L. (2019). Irritable bowel syndrome: a new therapeutic target when treating obesity? <em>International Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism. <\/em>18(4):395-399. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31228102\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.1007\/s42000-019-00113-9<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nagasako, C., Montes, C., Lorena, S., Masquita M. (2016) Irritable bowel syndrome subtypes: clinical and psychological features, body mass index and comorbidities. <em>Spanish Journal of Digestive Diseases<\/em>. 108(2):59-64. <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/26838486\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">doi: 10.17235\/reed.2015.3979\/2015<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Johnson, A., Loftus, E. (2021) Obesity in inflammatory bowel disease: A review of its role in the pathogenesis, natural history, and treatment of IBD. <em>Journal of Gastroenterology<\/em>. 27(4): 183\u2013190. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/34169900\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.4103\/sjg.sjg_30_21<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bilski J, Mazur-Bialy A, Wojcik D, Surmiak M, Magierowski M, Sliwowski Z, Pajdo R, Kwiecien S, Danielak A, Ptak-Belowska A, Brzozowski T. (2019) Role of Obesity, Mesenteric Adipose Tissue, and Adipokines in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.\u202fBiomolecules.\u202f9(12):780. doi:<a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/31779136\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.3390\/biom9120780.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kim, J., Oh, C., Yoo, J. (2023). Obesity and novel management of inflammatory bowel disease. <em>World Journal of Gastroenterology. <\/em>29(12): 1779\u20131794. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC10080699\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.3748\/wjg.v29.i12.1779<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jiang K, Chen B, Lou D, Zhang M, Shi Y, Dai W, Shen J, Zhou B, Hu J. (2022) Systematic review and meta-analysis: association between obesity\/overweight and surgical complications in IBD.\u202f<em>International&nbsp; Journal of Colorectal Disease<\/em>.\u202f37(7): 1485\u20131496.doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC9262757\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.1007\/s00384-022-04190-y<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crohn\u2019s and Colitis Canada. (2024). Signs &amp; Symptoms. <a href=\"https:\/\/crohnsandcolitis.ca\/About-Crohn-s-Colitis\/Signs-Symptoms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/crohnsandcolitis.ca\/About-Crohn-s-Colitis\/Signs-Symptoms<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lynn A., Harmsen W., Tremaine W., Bazerbachi F., Dayyeh B., Loftus E. (2020) Impact of Obesity on Future IBD-Related Complications in a Population-Based Cohort of Crohn&#8217;s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC) Patients.\u202f<em>Gastroenterology and Hepatology.<\/em> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8132647\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">16(7): 350\u2013359.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flores, A., Burstein, E., Cipher, D., Feagins, L. (2015). Obesity in inflammatory bowel disease: A marker of less severe disease.\u202f<em>Digestive Diseases and Sciences.\u202f<\/em>60(8):2436-45. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/25799938\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.1007\/s10620-015-3629-5.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crohn\u2019s and Colitis Canada. (2024). IBD Journey. https:\/\/crohnsandcolitis.ca\/About-Crohn-s-Colitis\/IBD-Journey\/Diet-and-Nutrition-in-IBD&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2017) Pancreatitis. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niddk.nih.gov\/health-information\/digestive-diseases\/pancreatitis\/symptoms-causes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.niddk.nih.gov\/health-information\/digestive-diseases\/pancreatitis\/symptoms-causes<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Khatua, B., El-Kurdi, B., Singh, V. (2017) Obesity and pancreatitis. <em>Current Opinion in Gastroenterology.<\/em> <em>33(5): 374\u2013382. doi: <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6640854\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>10.1097&nbsp;<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tian, Y., Huang, Q., Ren, Y., Jiang, X., Jiang, B. (2023). Visceral adipose tissue predicts severity and prognosis of acute pancreatitis in obese patients. <em>Hepatobiliary &amp; Pancreatic Diseases International Journal<\/em>. 23(5):458-462. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/37648552\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.1016\/j.hbpd.2023.08.014<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canadian Liver Foundation. (2024). Your Liver. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.liver.ca\/your-liver\/#about-the-liver\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.liver.ca\/your-liver\/#about-the-liver<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Canadian Liver Foundation. (2024). Fatty Liver Disease. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.liver.ca\/patients-caregivers\/liver-diseases\/fatty-liver-disease\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.liver.ca\/patients-caregivers\/liver-diseases\/fatty-liver-disease\/<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Divella, R., Mazzocca, A., Daniele, A., Sabb\u00e0, C., and Paradiso, A. (2019). Obesity, Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Adipocytokines Network in Promotion of Cancer. <em>International Journal of Biological Sciences<\/em>. 15(3): 610\u2013616. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6367583\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.7150\/ijbs.29599<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Karjoo, S., Auriemma, A., Fraker, T., and Baysf, H.E. (2022). Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and obesity: An Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) 2022. <em>Obesity Pillars.<\/em>100027<em>. <\/em>doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC10661876\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.1016\/j.obpill.2022.100027<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ristic-Medic, D., Bajerska, J., and Vucic, V. (2022). Crosstalk between dietary patterns, obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. <em>World Journal of Gastroenterology. <\/em>28(27): 3314\u20133333. doi: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC9346467\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10.3748\/wjg.v28.i27.3314<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Obesity Canada. (2024). Health Impacts of Obesity. <a href=\"https:\/\/obesitycanada.ca\/understanding-obesity\/health-impacts-obesity\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/obesitycanada.ca\/understanding-obesity\/health-impacts-obesity\/<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Diabetes Canada. (2024) What is diabetes.<a href=\"https:\/\/www.diabetes.ca\/about-diabetes-(3)\/what-is-diabetes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.diabetes.ca\/about-diabetes-(3)\/what-is-diabetes<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Klein, S., Gastaldelli, A., Yki-Jarvinen, H., Scherer, P. (2022). Why does obesity cause diabetes? <em>Cell Metabolism. 34(1): 11\u201320. doi: <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC8740746\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>10.1016\/j.cmet.2021.12.012<\/em><\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Obesity is a chronic disease that can be a risk factor for other medical conditions including various digestive health disorders. The prevalence of obesity in Canada is on the rise with an increase from 21% of adult Canadians in 2003 compared to 30% in 2022.&nbsp; If you\u2019re living with obesity, what are ways you can [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":58538,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"cdhf2022_sponsors_meta":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[60],"tags":[50,28],"class_list":["post-58526","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-article","tag-tags-gerd","tag-obesity"],"acf":{"article_writer":[58532]},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/obesity-and-digestion-banner.webp","author_info":{"display_name":"Sophie Allan","author_link":"https:\/\/cdhf.ca\/en\/author\/sophie-allen\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Obesity and Digestion- What&#039;s the Connection? - Canadian Digestive Health Foundation<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Are you trying to manage obesity and digestive symptoms? 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