Fasting: What You Need to Know
Ever considered fasting? Our doctors talk about the benefits and science behind intermittent fasting.
How to Prevent Food Poisoning
Our experts offer advice on how to steer clear of foodborne illnesses.
What Causes Stomach Ulcers?
If you believe stress and spicy foods cause stomach ulcers, think again.
Featured Articles

How to Reduce Gas and a Bloated Belly
Learn the most common reasons for that sudden belly expansion, and how a few lifestyle adjustments can help.

Women: What to Know About Your Digestive Tract
For reasons both physical and hormonal, women’s digestive systems function differently from men’s. Learn what that means for your body.

Soothing Heartburn
Heartburn (acid reflux) happens when stomach juices splash up into your esophagus. Find out why you shouldn’t ignore it.
Ask an Expert
Andrelyn C. Almario, N.P.
Sutter Medical Foundation
My boyfriend (44) is constipated. He has taken three or four different kinds of laxatives but they don't seem to be helping him. What will help him?
Constipation means difficult and less frequent bowel movements. The stool becomes hard, dry and sometimes painful to pass. At one time or another, almost everyone gets constipated. In most cases, it lasts a sho... continue reading about My boyfriend (44) is constipated. He has taken three or four different kinds of laxatives but they don't seem to be helping him. What will help him?
Andrelyn C. Almario, N.P.
Sutter Medical Foundation
I've always been very regular, but now in menopause I'm constipated. I eat whole grains, fruits and vegetables, drink a lot of water. I'm normal weight and I exercise. I eat prunes and take Benefiber, but I still have small movements with lots of gas.
Constipation is a condition (not a disease) where a person passes small amounts of hard, dry stool, usually fewer than three times a week. The person may also have a feeling of incomplete elimination of stool. ... continue reading about I've always been very regular, but now in menopause I'm constipated. I eat whole grains, fruits and vegetables, drink a lot of water. I'm normal weight and I exercise. I eat prunes and take Benefiber, but I still have small movements with lots of gas.
More Resources

Drug Guide
Look up prescription and over-the-counter drug information.

Medical Library
Look up helpful health information.

Diseases and Conditions
See our full library of diseases and conditions.

Patient Information
Practical info for Sutter patients.

Tools and Quizzes
Online tools to help you make decisions about your health.