Maker Halts Distribution of Generic Zantac Due to Possible Carcinogen

THURSDAY, Sept. 19, 2019 -- Novartis, the maker of a generic form of the popular heartburn drug Zantac, said Wednesday it will cease distribution of the medicine after investigations suggested that generic and branded versions contain a known carcinogen.

A distribution halt is not the same as a full recall, and it means that generic Zantac (ranitidine) remaining on store shelves can still be sold, CBS News reported.

Drink Coffee, Avoid Gallstones?

MONDAY, Sept. 9, 2019 -- To the many ways in which coffee seems to confer unexpected health benefits, add a lowered risk of painful gallstones.

After tracking nearly 105,000 Danes for an average of eight years, researchers found that those who downed more than six cups per day of the world's most popular beverage saw their gallstone risk drop by 23%.

More Antibiotics, Higher Odds for Colon Cancer?

WEDNESDAY, Aug. 21, 2019 -- Taking certain antibiotics -- especially multiple times or for long courses -- may put you at risk for colon cancer, a large new study suggests.

The researchers found that as people's antibiotic use increased, their odds of being diagnosed with colon cancer inched up. Specifically, the risk was tied to antibiotics that kill anaerobic bacteria -- which include common drugs like penicillins and cephalosporins such as Keflex.

Lots of Gluten During Toddler Years Might Raise Odds for Celiac Disease

TUESDAY, Aug. 13, 2019 -- Too much white bread and pasta fed to at-risk kids under age 5 could increase their odds of developing celiac disease, a new international study has concluded.

Every extra daily gram of gluten a young child eats increases their risk of celiac disease, if they are genetically predisposed to it, researchers found.

Tips for Preventing Diverticulitis

FRIDAY, Aug. 9, 2019 -- Although colonoscopy screens for cancer, it can also uncover a common condition called diverticulosis.

This is when one or more pockets develop in the colon wall, often in the large bowel. These pockets occur over time, possibly from not getting enough fiber in your diet or eating too much red meat. They're so common that about 50% of people have them by age 50, according to the American Gastroenterological Association.

Are You Still Putting Off Colon Cancer Screening?

FRIDAY, Aug. 9, 2019 -- No one looks forward to a colonoscopy, but it can save your life. So you might be wondering whether a home test is a good alternative.

These tests involve mailing a stool sample to a lab. Older types of tests check for blood, which could signal a cancerous growth. Precancerous polyps are harder to find with these tests, because they tend not to bleed. Newer types of stool tests look for changes in DNA that could be signs of cancer. They're also better at finding advanced polyps. You'll need to have a colonoscopy if a home test shows any positive results.