What is Gut Health?
Gut or digestive health refers to the proper functioning of the digestive system, which includes your stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas, and other organs involved in breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste.
Good digestive health is completely connected to overall well-being, as it ensures that your body receives the necessary nutrients to function correctly.
What is the Connection Between the Microbiome and Gut Health?
A healthy microbiome is essential for optimal gut health and overall well-being. This diverse community of microorganisms residing in our digestive tract plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption, vitamin synthesis, inflammation, and immune system regulation. Additionally, a balanced microbiome helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. Research suggests that imbalances in the gut microbiome (dysbiosis) can contribute to a wide range of health issues, including digestive disorders,
autoimmune diseases, allergies, and even mental health concerns. Through advanced DNA stool analysis, we can help determine your microbiome status and give you a customized treatment plan to improve your gut health.
What are the Symptoms of Gut Health Disorders?
Symptoms of gut or digestive health disorders can vary widely depending on the specific condition but often include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heartburn
- Nausea
- Other symptoms may include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and changes in appetite.
Common digestive disorders include:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Crohn's disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Celiac disease
- Gallbladder disorders
How Does My Gut Health Affect My Overall Health?
A healthy digestive system ensures efficient nutrient absorption, which is vital for energy, growth, and repair. Poor gut health can lead to nutrient deficiencies, weakened immunity, and chronic inflammation, contributing to various health problems such as fatigue, skin issues, mental health disorders, and autoimmune diseases.
Moreover, the gut-brain connection means an unhealthy gut can negatively impact your mood and cognitive function.
How Can I Support My Digestive Health?
Supporting your digestive health involves several strategies. Below are common first line approaches to healthy gut health.
- Eat a balanced diet - choose fiber, vegetables, proteins, and probiotic-rich foods.
- Stay hydrated - drink water to aid in digestion and prevent constipation.
- Exercise regularly - move your body to stimulate intestinal contractions and help maintain a healthy weight.
- Manage stress - participate in practices like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga.
- Avoid trigger foods - limit inflammatory foods.
- Get adequate sleep - restful sleep is essential for gut healing
The Most Common Gut Health Conditions We Treat
- SIBO, SIFO, and dysbiosis
- Intestinal candida
- Intestinal parasites
- Intestinal permeability (leaky gut syndrome)
- IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
- IBD (irritable bowel disease)
- Gas and bloating
- Food allergies and food sensitivities
- Diverticulosis and diverticulitis
- Abdominal trigger points
- GERD and ulcers
- Hiatal hernia
- H. pylori
- Malabsorption
Tests We Offer to Diagnose Gut Health Conditions
- DNA stool analysis - to evaluate gut microbiome, infections, inflammation
- Leaky gut testing
- Food allergy & sensitivity testing
- Nutrient testing
Common Gut Health Treatments We Offer
- Nutraceuticals
- Botanical medicine
- Peptides (ex. BPC-157)
- Medications (ex. low dose naltrexone (LDN))
- Abdominal treatments (ex. ultrasound therapy, laser therapy, electrostimulation)
- Rectal ozone therapy
- Dietary support
Ready to find relief from your gut symptoms?