Gut Health
& Digestion

Gut Health & Digestion

Gut health and digestion are really important for our overall health and well-being. Digestive symptoms can have a significant impact on quality of life and may affect much more than just the digestive system itself. Symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, constipation, diarrhoea, acid reflux, indigestion, food sensitivities, and irregular bowel movements are increasingly common and can affect day-to-day wellbeing, energy levels, and confidence.

We regularly support clients with a wide range of digestive concerns, including IBS, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, acid reflux, indigestion, food sensitivities, suspected microbiome imbalances, inflammatory bowel conditions, coeliac disease, and other chronic digestive complaints. Every individual is different, which is why a personalised assessment is an important first step.

 

Gut Microbiome

Our gut microbiome (also known as the gut microbiota) plays an important role in supporting digestion, while also having an effect on immune system function, cognitive health, and even hormonal health. This relationship is often referred to as the gut-brain axis (GBA), which describes the communication between the enteric nervous system (the millions of nerve cells lining our digestive tract) and the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord).

 

What Can You Do About It?

There are many lifestyle interventions which can be very useful when it comes to digestive health management. Healthy habits around meal times are crucial and are often a good place to start. For example, not rushing your meals, chewing thoroughly, and avoiding distractions during mealtimes are all beneficial habits for both children and adults when it comes to supporting healthy digestion.

However, in many cases there may be underlying factors or gut imbalances requiring more personalised attention. At our naturopathic and herbal medicine clinic, we utilise traditional herbal medicine informed by current scientific evidence, nutraceuticals such as vitamins and minerals, nutritional support, lifestyle medicine, and functional testing where appropriate. Combining these modalities gives us a better opportunity to not only support symptom management, but also identify and address factors that may be contributing to digestive health concerns.

 

Herbal Medicine

At our clinic, we create fully bespoke personalised herbal formulae. For digestive health, these may include antispasmodic herbs, digestive stimulant herbs, and antimicrobial botanicals. Depending on your individual health history, additional herbal extracts may also be considered to ensure your health is supported in a comprehensive and personalised manner.

 

Antispasmodics: Herbs possessing this action may assist in easing cramping within the digestive tract and reducing discomfort associated with digestive tension. Some commonly used antispasmodic herbs include Chamomile, Passionflower, Ginger, and Cramp Bark.

 

Food Intolerance & Allergy Testing

We offer food intolerance testing through a trusted laboratory which measures IgG antibodies against over 200 food and drink items. Food sensitivities may contribute to digestive symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, and altered bowel habits in some individuals.

We also offer allergy testing, which measures IgE antibodies against common food and environmental allergens.

 

Microbiome Testing

We offer comprehensive microbiome testing to assess markers associated with microbial imbalances, digestive function, intestinal permeability, and inflammation. Testing may also include markers such as calprotectin, which is commonly used to assess intestinal inflammation.

We also offer gluten sensitivity testing. Additional functional testing may be recommended where appropriate, including genetic testing (DNA Diet), helping us tailor recommendations to your individual needs.

 

Our Approach

At our clinic, we take an evidence-based, highly personalised, and integrative approach to complementary medicine. Rather than relying on a single therapy, we combine clinical herbal medicine, nutraceutical support, nutrition, and lifestyle medicine to create individualised plans tailored to each client's needs. Where appropriate, we also utilise functional testing and review existing blood tests, medical reports, and investigations to help build a more complete picture of your health. We believe the best outcomes are often achieved when complementary and conventional healthcare work together, and we are always happy to collaborate with your GP, consultant, or other healthcare providers as part of your support plan.

By combining evidence-based herbal medicine, nutritional support,  lifestyle interventions, and appropriate testing, we aim to provide comprehensive support that addresses both your current symptoms and your long-term health goals.

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Don't hesitate to get in touch to learn more about the services, testing options, and personalised support available through our clinic.

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This information has been prepared by Rita Tarvydaite, Clinical Herbalist & Naturopath, and is intended for educational purposes only. Individual recommendations may vary depending on your health history and circumstances.