Q: It's been a year since I had a colon resection (not laparoscopic, but invasive surgery), and I still feel discomfort and my stomach is twice its normal size. I eat healthy and eliminated stress, but I'm bloated. I supplement with herbs and vitamins. Nobody can give me an explanation for the discomfort I feel. I would've rather had the periodic pain of the diverticulitis than the ongoing discomfort that I feel now. Is there something that is healing to my intestines and my stomach? I feel every bit of food or drink that passes through.
A: First things first: Make sure you've been checked out to rule out a partial intestinal blockage, which can occur during healing. Assuming that checks out, we advise you to start crunching—not potato chips, but your abdominal muscles. Abdominal exercises—crunches, sit-ups—aren't just reserved for athletes and magazine-cover model wannabes. They'll actually help strengthen those muscles all throughout your abdomen, which could help alleviate some of your discomfort. Start by doing a few, then gradually build up until you can do them with your legs off the ground and knees toward your belly as your chest moves. (See p. 129 in YOU: The Owner's Manual for illustrations.)
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