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- $Unique_ID{BRK02309}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{Can Activated Charcoal Help Stomach Cramps?}
- $Subject{digestive system bloating bloated abdomen abdominal stomach cramp
- cramps diarrhea nutrition high fiber diet gastro intestinal intestine
- intestines activated charcoal gas flatulence}
- $Volume{I-12,I-26}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1992,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- Can Activated Charcoal Help Stomach Cramps?
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- QUESTION: I am a victim of terrible stomach cramps from time to time.
- Sometimes it seems as if anything I eat does not agree with me. Is there any
- truth to the stories about activated charcoal? My friend claims this has been
- his best way of dealing with a similar problem. Do you agree?
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- ANSWER: Yes, clinical research has shown that activated charcoal can
- significantly lower intestinal gas and its related symptoms, which include
- abdominal cramps, bloating, and diarrhea. Activated charcoal may be helpful,
- particularly to those who eat high fiber diets, which has become increasingly
- popular in recent years. Foods high in fiber consisting of fresh fruits and
- vegetables (lightly cooked or raw), whole grains (cereals and breads), and
- dried fruits (raisins, prunes, apricots), are recommended for the prevention
- of colon cancer as well as more common problems such as constipation.
- However, such diets can also cause excessive gas and flatulence, particularly
- when someone starts on the diet full blast, and over does it just a bit.
- Activated charcoal may increase the long-term tolerance of these foods, since
- even when taken in large doses and for long periods of time, it is safe and
- without adverse side effects. Discuss the problem with your pharmacist of
- physician who can help you get a supply of this material for your use.
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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