Gastrointestinal Health

Many digestive health matters cause discomfort and have an impact on your quality of life. Though not life-threatening, if left untreated, some ailments can lead to more serious disorders. Thus, it is vital to be aware of subtle changes in digestion, as these early warning signs may help to prevent the development of more serious conditions. Common digestive concerns include:

• Indigestion, Bloating
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Crohn's Disease
• Hemorrhoids
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
• Acid Reflux, Heartburn
• Stomach/ Intestinal Ulcers
• Colitis

Naturopathy: The gastrointestinal tract is not strictly a vehicle for digestion, absorption, and elimination; it is also an active immune center. Thus, digestive imbalances not only impact your intestinal health; they can impair immunity and compromise overall wellbeing. With all digestive disorders, it is imperative that you understand what agents or foods are aggravating your digestive system. Food sensitivities can have adverse effects not only on digestion, but also on the body as a whole. For instance, the link between food and mood has been well established. For some, a simple sensitivity to wheat can bring about fatigue, irritability, and depressive moods. Hence, it is imperative to learn how to safely remove or find substitutions for offending foods in your diet. Eliminating these irritants and repairing the digestive system through naturopathic treatments can significantly improve symptoms. A detoxification program may also be utilized to help revitalize sluggish digestion. Managing stress is extremely important in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Persistent and unresolved stress has been shown to significantly impact intestinal absorption. If left untreated, this dynamic can create a perpetual cycle of ill health and frustration.

Acupuncture and GERD (Acid Reflux): Acupuncture has long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat stomach ailments. Electrical stimulation of an acupuncture point on the wrist reduces the number of relaxations in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). Temporary relaxations in the LES can allow stomach acids to back up into the esophagus. These relaxations are the primary mechanism by which acid reflux and subsequent heartburn symptoms occur. Acupuncture can help alleviate the worst symptoms of gastro-esophageal reflux, such as, heartburn, pain, heaviness in the stomach, abdominal distention, belching, and other physical discomforts.

Massage Therapy: Massage therapy can help to improve digestion by increasing contraction of the muscles that move food through the intestines, thus helping to prevent and alleviate constipation. Moreover, massage therapy promotes the release of enzymes responsible for breaking down food, aiding digestion and absorption of nutrients. Improved absorption consequently has a positive effect on all systems of the body.

Self Treatment Techniques: A balanced digestive system is an integral component of the body’s overall health. Hence, it becomes essential to bring awareness to one’s whole body by evaluating dietary patterns, genetic predispositions, sleep habits, posture, stress levels and other lifestyle components, such as physical activity and overall sense of wellbeing.

Your body is a unique entity, thus your treatment should be tailored specifically to your needs. You should always seek the advice of your health care practitioner to guide you along the path of optimal wellness.

To maintain bowel regularity, we recommend incorporating ground flaxseed into your diet, as it is a rich source of fiber. Remember to drink plenty of water, as too much fiber and too little water can contribute to constipation.

To prevent food sensitivities from developing, remember to rotate your foods so that you maintain a varied diet. This practice prevents your body from being overexposed to certain foods.