Digestive issues are common but what most patients don’t realize is that there are different stages of digestive issues that require different approaches in managing them. This is where naturopathic medicine and dietary interventions come into play. Naturopathic doctors and dietitians are trained professionals that can guide patients through the different stages and triggers of digestive issues. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the three stages of digestive issues and how to identify them.
The first stage of digestive issues is characterized by occasional discomfort, bloating, constipation or diarrhea and indigestion. Most patients don’t seek medical attention during this stage instead they would usually buy over-the-counter medications to alleviate digestive issue symptoms. While these medications can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause of the issue. During this stage, patients should start making dietary changes such as eliminating inflammatory foods like processed foods, sugar, and gluten.
The second stage of digestive issues is when symptoms become more frequent and severe, to the point of affecting the patient’s quality of life. This stage is usually caused by an imbalance of gut bacteria, which can lead to chronic inflammation in the gut lining. During this stage, patients will need to undergo diagnostic testing to identify the root cause of the issue. Naturopathic doctors use comprehensive stool analysis to determine which bacteria are overgrown or underrepresented. Once the results are in, they will create treatment plans that include herbal supplements, dietary changes, and probiotics.
The third and final stage of digestive issues is when the gut lining is so inflamed that it becomes permeable, allowing toxins and bacteria to escape into the bloodstream. This is commonly referred to as leaky gut syndrome. During this stage, patients often have an autoimmune disease or another chronic health condition. To treat this stage, naturopathic doctors and dietitians will use advanced lab testing to determine the root cause of the issue. They will then create a comprehensive treatment plan that includes dietary changes, herbal supplements, and intravenous nutritional therapies.
It’s important to identify the stage of digestive issues you’re experiencing so you can receive proper treatment. While over-the-counter medications can provide temporary relief during the initial stages, they don’t address the underlying cause of the problem. Naturopathic doctors and dietitians offer a holistic approach to digestive issues, focusing on identifying the root cause of the issue and providing individualized treatment plans. By working with a naturopathic doctor or dietitian, patients can avoid the frustration of treating symptoms and instead, achieve long-lasting relief from digestive issues.
If you have any questions or would like to explore naturopathic medicine further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Michael Torreiter, ND, CFMP, or another Waterloo Naturopath at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
