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= Lesson 77 - Gastrointestinal Diseases =

= Lesson 77 - Gastrointestinal Diseases =

== The Gastrointestinal Tract ==

== The Gastrointestinal Tract(Alimentary Canal) ==

The gastrointestinal tract begins with the mouth and ends with the anus. Disease symptoms may arise anywhere along that route if we do not follow the Laws of Life, i.e., if we live unhealthfully. A few of the most common “diseases” will be discussed and the reason for their occurrence. It is not necessary to elaborate upon every disease known, as all diseases stem from a common cause—toxicosis. First of all, it is necessary for you to have a brief review of the function and structure of the normal gastrointestinal tract.

The gastrointestinal tract begins with the mouth and ends with the anus. Disease symptoms may arise anywhere along that route if we do not follow the Laws of Life, i.e., if we live unhealthfully. A few of the most common “diseases” will be discussed and the reason for their occurrence. It is not necessary to elaborate upon every disease known, as all diseases stem from a common cause—toxicosis. First of all, it is necessary for you to have a brief review of the function and structure of the normal gastrointestinal tract.

The pharynx is the portion of the digestive tract serving is a passageway for both the respiratory and digestive systems.

The pharynx is the portion of the digestive tract serving is a passageway for both the respiratory and digestive systems.

The esophagus is a long, straight tube extending from the pharynx to the stomach. Passage of food is facilitated by ordinary gravitational forces, as well as by the type and arangement of muscles in the tube itself. It is located between the trachea and the verte-

The esophagus is a long, straight tube extending from the pharynx to the stomach. Passage of food is facilitated by ordinary gravitational forces, as well as by the type and arangement of muscles in the tube itself. It is located between the trachea and the vertebral column. Esophageal glands serve to lubricate food during its passage from the pharynx to the stomach.

 

bral column. Esophageal glands serve to lubricate food during its passage from the pharynx to the stomach.

=== The Stomach ===

=== The Stomach ===

# A number of peptidases are present. These substances are proteolytic enzymes that cleave polypeptides into their constituent amino acids.

# A number of peptidases are present. These substances are proteolytic enzymes that cleave polypeptides into their constituent amino acids.

# Asmallquantityofintestinalamylaseispresent.Thisenzymeconvertspolysaccharides into disaccharides.

# A small quantity of intestinal amylase is present. This enzyme converts polysaccharides into disaccharides.

# Four enzymes are present in the intestinal fluids that split disaccharides into monosaccharides. These include sucrose, maltase, isomaltase and lactose (in children).

# Four enzymes are present in the intestinal fluids that split disaccharides into monosaccharides. These include sucrose, maltase, isomaltase and lactose (in children).

# Anintestinallipaseisalsopresent,andthisenzymedegradesneutralfatsintofattyacids and glycerol.

# An intestinal lipase is also present, and this enzyme degrades neutral fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

==== Accessory Digestion Secretions Pancreatic Secretion  ====

==== Accessory Digestion Secretions Pancreatic Secretion  ====

# There are no villi on the surface of the mucosa.

# There are no villi on the surface of the mucosa.

# Theglandsareofgreaterdepth,aremorecloselypacked,andcontainmanygobletcells.

# The glands are of greater depth, are more closely packed, and contain many goblet cells.

# Thelongitudinalmusclelayerofthececumandcolonislimitedtothreebands,visible on the surface, called teniae coli.

# Thelongitudinalmusclelayerofthececumandcolonislimitedtothreebands,visible on the surface, called teniae coli.

# Manyextensionsoffat-filledperitoneumareapparentalongthefreeborderofthecolon.

# Many extensions of fat-filled peritoneum are apparent along the free border of the colon.

The cecum, or first portion of the large intestine, is an elongated pouch situated in the right lower portion of the abdomen. Attached to its base is a slender tube, the appendix.

The cecum, or first portion of the large intestine, is an elongated pouch situated in the right lower portion of the abdomen. Attached to its base is a slender tube, the appendix.

There are several physiologic reasons why the body has chosen this particular route of elimination.

There are several physiologic reasons why the body has chosen this particular route of elimination.

1. Osmoticdiarrheaoccurswhenexcessnonabsorbable,water-solublesolutesarepresent in the bowel and retain water in the lumen. This occurs with lactose (due to the absence of lactase), and when such nonorganic salts (magnesium sulfate and sodium phosphate)

1. Osmotic diarrhea occurs when excess non-absorbable, water-soluble solutes are present in the bowel and retain water in the lumen. This occurs with lactose (due to the absence of lactase), and when such nonorganic salts (magnesium sulfate and sodium phosphate) are taken as saline laxatives. The body dilutes these toxins with increased secretions and quickly eliminates them.

 

are taken as saline laxatives. The body dilutes these toxins with increased secretions and quickly eliminates them.

Ingestion of large amounts of the hexitols, sorbitol and mannitol, used as sugar substitutes in dietetic foods, candy, and chewing gum, results in diarrhea by a combination of slow absorption and rapid small-bowel motility. Again, the body in its wisdom moves this toxic material along the digestive tract as rapidly as possible. The severity of symptoms is proportional to the amount consumed and the condition disappears as soon as the cause is discontinued, this is, when intake stops.

Ingestion of large amounts of the hexitols, sorbitol and mannitol, used as sugar substitutes in dietetic foods, candy, and chewing gum, results in diarrhea by a combination of slow absorption and rapid small-bowel motility. Again, the body in its wisdom moves this toxic material along the digestive tract as rapidly as possible. The severity of symptoms is proportional to the amount consumed and the condition disappears as soon as the cause is discontinued, this is, when intake stops.

Laxatives and cathartics interfere with absorption of food nutrients. These drugs result in rapid peristalsis of the digestive tract and usually the food particles beyond their optimal absorptive locus. Laxatives and cathartics are divided into several classes:

Laxatives and cathartics interfere with absorption of food nutrients. These drugs result in rapid peristalsis of the digestive tract and usually the food particles beyond their optimal absorptive locus. Laxatives and cathartics are divided into several classes:

1. Wettingagents(detergentlaxatives)softenthestoolbyincreasingthewettingabilityof the intestinal water. These break down surface barriers, allowing water to enter the fecal mass, soften it, and increase its bulk. Mineral oil is one example of a wetting agent. Mineral oil itself decreases absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A and E. Serious vitamin deficiencies could result if mineral oil is taken on a long-term basis.

1. Wetting agents(detergentlaxatives) soften the stool by increasing the wetting ability of the intestinal water. These break down surface barriers, allowing water to enter the fecal mass, soften it, and increase its bulk. Mineral oil is one example of a wetting agent. Mineral oil itself decreases absorption of fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A and E. Serious vitamin deficiencies could result if mineral oil is taken on a long-term basis.

2. Osmotic agents or saline cathartics are used to prepare patients for some diagnostic bowel procedures and occasionally in the therapy of parasitic infestations. They contain poorly absorbed polyvalent ions (e.g., phosphate, magnesium, sulfate) and/or carbohydrate (e.g., lactose, sorbitol). Inorganic magnesium and phosphate are partially absorbed and may be detrimental, especially in cases where there is renal insufficiency. The sodium that is present in these preparations is also detrimental. These drugs also upset fluid and electrolyte balance.

2. Osmotic agents or saline cathartics are used to prepare patients for some diagnostic bowel procedures and occasionally in the therapy of parasitic infestations. They contain poorly absorbed polyvalent ions (e.g., phosphate, magnesium, sulfate) and/or carbohydrate (e.g., lactose, sorbitol). Inorganic magnesium and phosphate are partially absorbed and may be detrimental, especially in cases where there is renal insufficiency. The sodium that is present in these preparations is also detrimental. These drugs also upset fluid and electrolyte balance.

3. Secretoryorstimulationcathartics,suchassennaanditsderivatives,cascara,phenolphtalein, bisacodyl, and castor oil irritate the intestinal mucosa and result in neuronal stimulation. With continued use, neuronal degeneration in the colon and “lazy bowel” syndrome occur. The normal peristaltic movements of the bowels become less and the person finds that he is taking these drugs with more frequency in order to have daily bowel movements. Serious fluid and electroylyte disturbances result.

3. Secretory or stimulation cathartics, such as senna and its derivatives, cascara, phenolphtalein, bisacodyl, and castor oil irritate the intestinal mucosa and result in neuronal stimulation. With continued use, neuronal degeneration in the colon and “lazy bowel” syndrome occur. The normal peristaltic movements of the bowels become less and the person finds that he is taking these drugs with more frequency in order to have daily bowel movements. Serious fluid and electrolyte disturbances result.

The simple answer for constipation is to live normally. When you eat normally, exercise daily, procure sufficient rest, etc., bowel action will also be normal.

The simple answer for constipation is to live normally. When you eat normally, exercise daily, procure sufficient rest, etc., bowel action will also be normal.

=== Hemorrhoids ===

=== Hemorrhoids ===

It is estimated that over 40 million people in the United States suffer from hemorrhoids. In a medical study at the world-famous Mayo Clinic, it was found that more than half (52%) of those examined proctoscopically had hemorrhoids. That study was done

It is estimated that over 40 million people in the United States suffer from hemorrhoids. In a medical study at the world-famous Mayo Clinic, it was found that more than half (52%) of those examined proctoscopically had hemorrhoids. That study was done in 1959. Today statistics indicate that as many as four out of five people over 40 years of age have hemorrhoids.

 

in 1959. Today statistics indicate that as many as four out of five people over 40 years of age have hemorrhoids.

What are hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids (piles) are anal or rectal veins that have become swollen and inflamed. Such irritated blood vessels may remain entirely within the rectum where their presence may not be felt. As the condition worsens, they may slip out of the anus as firm projections and are often tender and painful. Discomfort may include itching, bleeding and mucus discharge. Physicians have cited a number of causes for this condition such as constipation, excessive sitting, straining to lift heavy objects, pregnancy and childbirth, excessive coughing or sneezing, etc. It is absurd to even consider any of these reasons for causes of the hemorrhoids.

What are hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids (piles) are anal or rectal veins that have become swollen and inflamed. Such irritated blood vessels may remain entirely within the rectum where their presence may not be felt. As the condition worsens, they may slip out of the anus as firm projections and are often tender and painful. Discomfort may include itching, bleeding and mucus discharge. Physicians have cited a number of causes for this condition such as constipation, excessive sitting, straining to lift heavy objects, pregnancy and childbirth, excessive coughing or sneezing, etc. It is absurd to even consider any of these reasons for causes of the hemorrhoids.

# Beneath anal skin—The type of blood clot most frequently experienced is that which develops beneath the modified anal skin (just within the anal opening). The swelling causes the clot to bulge outside the anus. This bulge has the appearance of a firm grape, being tender to the touch and impossible to permanently tuck back within the anus. This swelling causes pain similar to that of a large blood blister. This condition is often referred to as an “attack of hemorrhoids” or a “swelling of hemorrhoidal tissue due to inflammation.” Hemorrhoids do not “attack” you, they are developed due to a toxic condition that undermines blood vessels’ vitality.

# Beneath anal skin—The type of blood clot most frequently experienced is that which develops beneath the modified anal skin (just within the anal opening). The swelling causes the clot to bulge outside the anus. This bulge has the appearance of a firm grape, being tender to the touch and impossible to permanently tuck back within the anus. This swelling causes pain similar to that of a large blood blister. This condition is often referred to as an “attack of hemorrhoids” or a “swelling of hemorrhoidal tissue due to inflammation.” Hemorrhoids do not “attack” you, they are developed due to a toxic condition that undermines blood vessels’ vitality.

# Beneathmucosa—Whenthebloodclotoccursbeneaththemucousmembraneliningof the anal canal, it is rarely noticed due to the lack of sensitivity of that tissue.

# Beneath mucosa—When the blood clot occurs beneath the mucous membrane lining of the anal canal, it is rarely noticed due to the lack of sensitivity of that tissue.

# Beneathexternalskin—Bloodclotsmayalsoappearintissuethatiscompletelyoutside of the anus. This is often the result of prolapse of a strangulated internal hemorrhoid which obstructs the circulation, thereby causing clotting to occur in the adjacent external mass. This form of blood clot can be extremely painful.

# Beneath external skin—Blood clots may also appear in tissue that is completely outside of the anus. This is often the result of prolapse of a strangulated internal hemorrhoid which obstructs the circulation, thereby causing clotting to occur in the adjacent external mass. This form of blood clot can be extremely painful.

Blood clots will always disappear on their own without any outside “assistance.” The body’s innate wisdom knows how to take care of such abnormalities. This fact is taken advantage of by many drug manufacturers. When a person purchases a product that is claimed to “relieve hemorrhoidal symptoms” and the pain does, indeed, go away, the product is given the credit. If nothing was done at all, the pain would disappear equally as fast if not faster.

Blood clots will always disappear on their own without any outside “assistance.” The body’s innate wisdom knows how to take care of such abnormalities. This fact is taken advantage of by many drug manufacturers. When a person purchases a product that is claimed to “relieve hemorrhoidal symptoms” and the pain does, indeed, go away, the product is given the credit. If nothing was done at all, the pain would disappear equally as fast if not faster.

When drugs are administered for any reason, the body attempts to relieve itself of these powerful poisons. As this practice is repeated, the body becomes more and more enervated, all organs become depleted of vital energy, bowels become sluggish and constipation results. Subsequently, inflammation of the very lower portion of the bowel sets in that eventually gives rise to hemorrhoid formation.

When drugs are administered for any reason, the body attempts to relieve itself of these powerful poisons. As this practice is repeated, the body becomes more and more enervated, all organs become depleted of vital energy, bowels become sluggish and constipation results. Subsequently, inflammation of the very lower portion of the bowel sets in that eventually gives rise to hemorrhoid formation.

When enervation and toxicosis do not result from taking poisonous medications, they are very likely to occur when the individual leads a sedentary lifestyle, uses concentrated and refined foods, eats foods that are highly seasoned and stimulating, and neglects the other requirements for health. When such enervating habits are persisted in, the bowels become deranged and the nervous energy upon which all activity depends becomes deficient. Congestion of the blood vessels occurs and soon tumoroustype growths appear and become excessively painful. Whenever the person experiences a bowel movement, the veins become large and under the pressure of the sphincter muscle, become so overloaded with blood and toxic material that this pus and fluid escape and the person has what is called “bleeding hemorrhoid.”

When enervation and toxicosis do not result from taking poisonous medications, they are very likely to occur when the individual leads a sedentary lifestyle, uses concentrated and refined foods, eats foods that are highly seasoned and stimulating, and neglects the other requirements for health. When such enervating habits are persisted in, the bowels become deranged and the nervous energy upon which all activity depends becomes deficient. Congestion of the blood vessels occurs and soon tumorous type growths appear and become excessively painful. Whenever the person experiences a bowel movement, the veins become large and under the pressure of the sphincter muscle, become so overloaded with blood and toxic material that this pus and fluid escape and the person has what is called “bleeding hemorrhoid.”

==== What to Do If You Have Hemorrhoids ====

==== What to Do If You Have Hemorrhoids ====

# Purgativesshouldneverbetaken.Personswhotakeinternalmedicineforpilesmakea mistake. No one is ever benefited by them, nor is there any real benefit derivable from any one of the panaceas. Quack medicines are all delusions, thorough cheats, doing no good. If one is relieved thereby he is, as I have before stated, more likely than not to have, as a substitute for the piles, a disease still worse.

# Purgativesshouldneverbetaken.Personswhotakeinternalmedicineforpilesmakea mistake. No one is ever benefited by them, nor is there any real benefit derivable from any one of the panaceas. Quack medicines are all delusions, thorough cheats, doing no good. If one is relieved thereby he is, as I have before stated, more likely than not to have, as a substitute for the piles, a disease still worse.

# Whoeverhavingpileswouldgetridofthemmusteatunstimulating,simplefood.Meats, cakes, dressings of rich gravies for the table, must be abandoned, and in their place vegetables and fruits substituted. Then, if the person is so situated as not to overtax the nervous system by labor or thought, and can give to himself or herself plenty of time in the open air whereby to reinvigorate the blood and make it pure, there is good chance that the person may recover.”

# Whoever having piles would get rid of them must eat unstimulating, simple food.Meats, cakes, dressings of rich gravies for the table, must be abandoned, and in their place vegetables and fruits substituted. Then, if the person is so situated as not to overtax the nervous system by labor or thought, and can give to himself or herself plenty of time in the open air whereby to reinvigorate the blood and make it pure, there is good chance that the person may recover.”

Since hemorrhoids develop due to a general condition of toxicosis, you should consider the body as a unit and aim for total health. In other words, when general health is achieved, the hemorrhoids will disappear on their own. This can be achieved only through healthful living.

Since hemorrhoids develop due to a general condition of toxicosis, you should consider the body as a unit and aim for total health. In other words, when general health is achieved, the hemorrhoids will disappear on their own. This can be achieved only through healthful living.

# Rectal leakage and resulting irritation.

# Rectal leakage and resulting irritation.

# Malabsorption of nutrients.

# Malabsorption of nutrients.

# Foodsremaininthestomachlonger,resultinginputrefactionandfermentationwith by-products of toxin bacterial metabolism.

# Foods remain in the stomach longer, resulting input refraction and fermentation with by-products of toxin bacterial metabolism.

# Lipid pneumonia, a condition where mineral oil has coated the pharynx, thereby gaining access to the trachea and then the lungs.  

# Lipid pneumonia, a condition where mineral oil has coated the pharynx, thereby gaining access to the trachea and then the lungs.  

I do not intend here to attempt to cover all the variations from the common picture of colitis. These may occur often, but for all practical purposes, they are of little significance. As the colon is divided into a few sections, it becomes possible to have such special forms of colitis as proctitis, sigmoiditis and others, but the so-called disease is the same in each case.

I do not intend here to attempt to cover all the variations from the common picture of colitis. These may occur often, but for all practical purposes, they are of little significance. As the colon is divided into a few sections, it becomes possible to have such special forms of colitis as proctitis, sigmoiditis and others, but the so-called disease is the same in each case.

Let us look at the two “diseases” just named. There is no actual dividing line between the sigmoid and the rectum. If we imagine a hairline dividing the two continuous sec-

Let us look at the two “diseases” just named. There is no actual dividing line between the sigmoid and the rectum. If we imagine a hairline dividing the two continuous sections of the colon, we may recognize the folly of naming inflammation on one side of this line sigmoiditis, and, if it extends only an eighth of an inch over the line into the lining membrane of the rectum, calling this proctitis. It is like naming pimples on the left cheek one disease and pimples on the right cheek something else.

 

tions of the colon, we may recognize the folly of naming inflammation on one side of this line sigmoiditis, and, if it extends only an eighth of an inch over the line into the lining membrane of the rectum, calling this proctitis. It is like naming pimples on the left cheek one disease and pimples on the right cheek something else.

We make the same confusing classifications of inflammation according to locations throughout all parts of the body. Inflammation of the lining membrane of the nose is rhinitis, inflammation of the lining membrane of the nasal sinuses is sinusitis, inflammation of the bronchial tube is bronchitis; but these are only different names for precisely he same condition in the different locations. Gastritis is he same condition in the lining membrane of the stomach. To call all of these local inflammations different diseases is only to add to growing confusion.

We make the same confusing classifications of inflammation according to locations throughout all parts of the body. Inflammation of the lining membrane of the nose is rhinitis, inflammation of the lining membrane of the nasal sinuses is sinusitis, inflammation of the bronchial tube is bronchitis; but these are only different names for precisely he same condition in the different locations. Gastritis is he same condition in the lining membrane of the stomach. To call all of these local inflammations different diseases is only to add to growing confusion.

The common condition called diarrhea is simply a colitis of short duration. Not serious in the average case, and lasting but a day or two (to a few days) it is the rule of many to neglect the state of the colon and resort to means of suppressing the diarrhea. Often the condition is nothing more than a temporary irritation of the bowels by unsuitable or fermenting food. This is especially true when it develops in children. But repeated crises of this kind tend to evolve chronic colitis.

The common condition called diarrhea is simply a colitis of short duration. Not serious in the average case, and lasting but a day or two (to a few days) it is the rule of many to neglect the state of the colon and resort to means of suppressing the diarrhea. Often the condition is nothing more than a temporary irritation of the bowels by unsuitable or fermenting food. This is especially true when it develops in children. But repeated crises of this kind tend to evolve chronic colitis.

As long ago as 1918, Richard C. Cabot, M.D., of Harvard University Medical School and the Massachusetts General Hospital, wrote in his book for social workers, A Layman’s Handbook of Medicine: “Simple diarrhea or acute colitis of adults gets well as a rule in a week or ten days. The important remedies are rest and warmth and starvation.” He indicates that this same care is best for infants and children, although he thought that a purge at the outset of the diarrhea should help. The important thing for us to note, how-

As long ago as 1918, Richard C. Cabot, M.D., of Harvard University Medical School and the Massachusetts General Hospital, wrote in his book for social workers, A Layman’s Handbook of Medicine: “Simple diarrhea or acute colitis of adults gets well as a rule in a week or ten days. The important remedies are rest and warmth and starvation.” He indicates that this same care is best for infants and children, although he thought that a purge at the outset of the diarrhea should help. The important thing for us to note, however, is the recognition of the value of the fast in diarrhea. I think it should be added that a week to ten days constitutes more time than is required for most cases of diarrhea to come to an end if fasting is instituted at the first sign of diarrhea. Often two or three days are enough.

 

ever, is the recognition of the value of the fast in diarrhea. I think it should be added that a week to ten days constitutes more time than is required for most cases of diarrhea to come to an end if fasting is instituted at the first sign of diarrhea. Often two or three days are enough.

Amoebic dysentery is a form of colitis that is said to be caused by an amoeba. It is quite common in many parts of the world and I have had opportunity to handle a number of cases coming to me from Mexico and South America. I do not think that the dysentery is caused by the amoeba, but I am convinced that the amoeba and the medication aimed at this microbe tend to perpetuate a disease that, initially is but a simple inflammation of the bowel. The disease would “run its course” in a week to ten days in almost all cases, if not complicated by feeding and drugging.

Amoebic dysentery is a form of colitis that is said to be caused by an amoeba. It is quite common in many parts of the world and I have had opportunity to handle a number of cases coming to me from Mexico and South America. I do not think that the dysentery is caused by the amoeba, but I am convinced that the amoeba and the medication aimed at this microbe tend to perpetuate a disease that, initially is but a simple inflammation of the bowel. The disease would “run its course” in a week to ten days in almost all cases, if not complicated by feeding and drugging.

In either case, it is correct to say that when colitis has passed through the successive stages of irritation, inflammation, ulceration and induration, it is ready for the evolution of cancer, which needs but the addition of a continuous bath of decomposition from excess and unsuitable food. It is essential to understand that all chronic forms of inflammation begin with irritation, followed by inflammation and ulceration. If the location favors stasis—stoppage of the blood flow—induration and cancer follow. In its origin, irritation is absolutely innocent of all taint of malignancy, hence there is no reason why it cannot be remedied.

In either case, it is correct to say that when colitis has passed through the successive stages of irritation, inflammation, ulceration and induration, it is ready for the evolution of cancer, which needs but the addition of a continuous bath of decomposition from excess and unsuitable food. It is essential to understand that all chronic forms of inflammation begin with irritation, followed by inflammation and ulceration. If the location favors stasis—stoppage of the blood flow—induration and cancer follow. In its origin, irritation is absolutely innocent of all taint of malignancy, hence there is no reason why it cannot be remedied.

When ulcerative colitis is established, cancer is not far away. Indeed, the objective symptoms of cancer and ulcer are far from pathognomonic—that is, undeniably proving the presence of either. But there seems to be no reason to doubt that eating to the point of keeping the colon and rectum saturated with putrefaction is the one and only way to complete the evolution of cancer of the bowel. The beginning of the trouble is simple inflammation, which is absolutely innocent of all taint of malignancy until the diseased membrane of the colon or rectum has been mascerated, so to speak, in a continuous bath of decomposition.

When ulcerative colitis is established, cancer is not far away. Indeed, the objective symptoms of cancer and ulcer are far from pathognomonic—that is, undeniably proving the presence of either. But there seems to be no reason to doubt that eating to the point of keeping the colon and rectum saturated with putrefaction is the one and only way to complete the evolution of cancer of the bowel. The beginning of the trouble is simple inflammation, which is absolutely innocent of all taint of malignancy until the diseased membrane of the colon or rectum has been macerated, so to speak, in a continuous bath of decomposition.

The care of chronic inflammation of the colon and rectum should be successful at any stage before the beginning of malignancy. After the malignant stage is reached, hope flies out the window. This is to say, when colon disease has evolved through irritation, inflammation, ulceration and induration to cancer, any remaining possibility of recovery is wrecked by methods of diagnosis and treatment that set up psychosis or mental depression as deadly as cancer itself. Operation for cancer of the rectum or colon, making an artificial anus above the cancer, a questionable palliation, creates a blind pouch out of the cancerous portion of the colon or rectum, thus producing a miniature gehenna within the patient’s body.

The care of chronic inflammation of the colon and rectum should be successful at any stage before the beginning of malignancy. After the malignant stage is reached, hope flies out the window. This is to say, when colon disease has evolved through irritation, inflammation, ulceration and induration to cancer, any remaining possibility of recovery is wrecked by methods of diagnosis and treatment that set up psychosis or mental depression as deadly as cancer itself. Operation for cancer of the rectum or colon, making an artificial anus above the cancer, a questionable palliation, creates a blind pouch out of the cancerous portion of the colon or rectum, thus producing a miniature Gehenna within the patient’s body.

Alvarez says: “In a few cases, if no medical treatment helps, as the last resort the colon can be removed surgically.” The drug treatment he describes is purely symptomatic: barbituates to enable the patient to sleep, copavin or codeine to “quiet” the bowels and “give rest,” extra fluids, and “some iron” for his anemia. He recommends antibiotics and cortisone-like drugs for other symptoms. One gets the idea that “treat the symptoms as they arise” is still good medicine.

Alvarez says: “In a few cases, if no medical treatment helps, as the last resort the colon can be removed surgically.” The drug treatment he describes is purely symptomatic: barbiturates to enable the patient to sleep, copavin or codeine to “quiet” the bowels and “give rest,” extra fluids, and “some iron” for his anemia. He recommends antibiotics and cortisone-like drugs for other symptoms. One gets the idea that “treat the symptoms as they arise” is still good medicine.

Reverting to the article by Alvarez, he also says: “... the patient should be kept in bed awhile, on a liberal diet, and one tasty enough so that he will eat it, and not leave it on his plate. He must have enough food and vitamins so that he can keep up his nourishment.”

Reverting to the article by Alvarez, he also says: “... the patient should be kept in bed awhile, on a liberal diet, and one tasty enough so that he will eat it, and not leave it on his plate. He must have enough food and vitamins so that he can keep up his nourishment.”

This is a slightly different way of expressing it, but what he says is only a restatement of the old advice that the patient must “eat plenty of nourishing food to keep up his strength.” Eating prevents the bowel from healing and keeps alive the disease process. If the fast were instituted at the outset of the diarrhea, the formation of the ulceration could perhaps be avoided.

This is a slightly different way of expressing it, but what he says is only a restatement of the old advice that the patient must “eat plenty of nourishing food to keep up his strength.” Eating prevents the bowel from healing and keeps alive the disease process. If the fast were instituted at the outset of the diarrhea, the formation of the ulceration could perhaps be avoided.

The remainder of the advice as to treatment which is given by Alvarez may prove enlightening. He says: “He will probably need barbituates so that he can sleep at night, and he should have copavin, or codeine, to quiet his bowels and give him rest. He may need extra fluids, and he may need some iron for his anemia. One authority on this disease, Dr. J. A. Bargen of the Scott & White Clinic of Temple, Texas, gives an antibiotic, Azulfidine, which helps in some cases. Dr. Kirsner, of the University of Chicago, Dr. Ingelfinger, of Boston, and other authorities get results in some cases by giving cortisonelike drugs for a while. In a few cases, if no medical treatment helps, as a last resort the colon can be removed surgically.”

The remainder of the advice as to treatment which is given by Alvarez may prove enlightening. He says: “He will probably need barbiturates so that he can sleep at night, and he should have copavin, or codeine, to quiet his bowels and give him rest. He may need extra fluids, and he may need some iron for his anemia. One authority on this disease, Dr. J. A. Bargen of the Scott & White Clinic of Temple, Texas, gives an antibiotic, Azulfidine, which helps in some cases. Dr. Kirsner, of the University of Chicago, Dr. Ingelfinger, of Boston, and other authorities get results in some cases by giving cortisone-like drugs for a while. In a few cases, if no medical treatment helps, as a last resort the colon can be removed surgically.”

 

resort certainly does not remove the cause of the suffering. It seems to be an open confession of failure.

Apparently from this, the authorities are floundering about, trying first one thing and then another, hoping that something may prove to be of value. But without a knowledge of cause, there is nothing constructive that they can do. To remove the colon as the last resort certainly does not remove the cause of the suffering. It seems to be an open confession of failure.

It is essential to understand that irritation is absolutely innocent of the taint of malignancy, hence there is no reason why it should not be remediable. Malignancy is the ending, not the beginning of the pathological process. Those who carry out the instructions given for mucous colitis will not evolve ulcerative colitis.

It is essential to understand that irritation is absolutely innocent of the taint of malignancy, hence there is no reason why it should not be remediable. Malignancy is the ending, not the beginning of the pathological process. Those who carry out the instructions given for mucous colitis will not evolve ulcerative colitis.

While, perhaps overeating and eating food combinations that impede normal digestion may be regarded as the chief causes of chronic irritation of the stomach, the habits of eating in a hurry, failure to properly masticate the food, eating hot and cold foods, eating when fatigued, when emotionally stressed, when cold, and the practice of eating a hearty meal and returning immediately to work, impede the digestive process. All such abuses help to lay the ground work for disease of the stomach.

While, perhaps overeating and eating food combinations that impede normal digestion may be regarded as the chief causes of chronic irritation of the stomach, the habits of eating in a hurry, failure to properly masticate the food, eating hot and cold foods, eating when fatigued, when emotionally stressed, when cold, and the practice of eating a hearty meal and returning immediately to work, impede the digestive process. All such abuses help to lay the ground work for disease of the stomach.

While taking such stimulants as tea, coffee, and cocoa, and such narcotics as tobacco and alcohol contribute towards the causation of gastric impairment, the habit of using condiments is often worse. Acrid sauces, burning peppers, pungent spices, stinging mustard, mordant vinegar, biting alcohol, irritation-causing salt—when, how, and why did man begin the practice of abusing his digestive system with these piercing, caustic substances? Curry and cayenne, mustard and horse radish, chili and tobasco sauce, whiskey and gin—what unfit substances to introduce into the human stomach! They have no food value, are indigestible and retard the digestion of the real foods. When taken regularly, they keep the stomach in a state of chronic inflammation. They damage the intestines

While taking such stimulants as tea, coffee, and cocoa, and such narcotics as tobacco and alcohol contribute towards the causation of gastric impairment, the habit of using condiments is often worse. Acrid sauces, burning peppers, pungent spices, stinging mustard, mordant vinegar, biting alcohol, irritation-causing salt—when, how, and why did man begin the practice of abusing his digestive system with these piercing, caustic substances? Curry and cayenne, mustard and horse radish, chili and tobasco sauce, whiskey and gin—what unfit substances to introduce into the human stomach! They have no food value, are indigestible and retard the digestion of the real foods. When taken regularly, they keep the stomach in a state of chronic inflammation. They damage the intestines and liver also. They lack a single redeeming feature and none of the defenses of their “use” are valid.

 

and liver also. They lack a single redeeming feature and none of the defenses of their “use” are valid.

It should be understood that any act, habit, or indulgence that lowers functioning power, this is to say, anything that causes enervation, will lessen digestive function and pave the way for the evolution of chronic gastritis. Overwork, loss of sleep, lack of rest, stimulation, food deficiencies, emotional stresses, etc., by lowering the power of the nerves to maintain normal function, produce indigestion.

It should be understood that any act, habit, or indulgence that lowers functioning power, this is to say, anything that causes enervation, will lessen digestive function and pave the way for the evolution of chronic gastritis. Overwork, loss of sleep, lack of rest, stimulation, food deficiencies, emotional stresses, etc., by lowering the power of the nerves to maintain normal function, produce indigestion.

To carry the picture a bit further, however, let us briefly think of the case in which thickening of the pyloric membrane results from the long-continued irritation and inflammation. This obstructs the pyloric valve (the valve opening to let the digested food pass into the intestine), thus preventing normal emptying of the stomach, with the resulting pains of obstruction. The treatment of this is usually the gastroenterostomy, or the formation of a fistula between the stomach and the duodenum, thus bypassing the pyloris.

To carry the picture a bit further, however, let us briefly think of the case in which thickening of the pyloric membrane results from the long-continued irritation and inflammation. This obstructs the pyloric valve (the valve opening to let the digested food pass into the intestine), thus preventing normal emptying of the stomach, with the resulting pains of obstruction. The treatment of this is usually the gastroenterostomy, or the formation of a fistula between the stomach and the duodenum, thus bypassing the pyloris.

This is the same of medico-surgical malpractice. It is as easy to reduce a thickened pyloric mucosa (membrane) by fasting as it is to reduce a thickened membrane in the nose that obstructs the nasal passage and compels mouth breathing. We can watch the

This is the same of medico-surgical malpractice. It is as easy to reduce a thickened pyloric mucosa (membrane) by fasting as it is to reduce a thickened membrane in the nose that obstructs the nasal passage and compels mouth breathing. We can watch the process in the nose; we can “see” it in the stomach only symptomatically. We can see the symptoms of pyloric obstruction clear up and normal emptying of the stomach take place.

 

process in the nose; we can “see” it in the stomach only symptomatically. We can see the symptoms of pyloric obstruction clear up and normal emptying of the stomach take place.

Perhaps no state of impaired health is more responsive to the physiological rest than chronic indigestion. It should not be necessary to have to say that all causes of enervation, all causes of impaired digestion, all causes of stomach irritation should be removed. No recovery of health is possible so long as these remain. Remove these causes and provide the disabled stomach with a much-needed rest and it will repair its damages, recuperate its forces and begin to function normally again.

Perhaps no state of impaired health is more responsive to the physiological rest than chronic indigestion. It should not be necessary to have to say that all causes of enervation, all causes of impaired digestion, all causes of stomach irritation should be removed. No recovery of health is possible so long as these remain. Remove these causes and provide the disabled stomach with a much-needed rest and it will repair its damages, recuperate its forces and begin to function normally again.