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Beating Bali Belly: How to Get Your Gut Back on Track After Getting Sick on Holiday

 

How to Get Your Gut Back on Track After Getting Sick on Holiday

 Coming back from a holiday with a sore gut as your souvenir is never fun.

Infections that cause traveller’s diarrhoea can lead to chronic digestive issues if you don’t repair the damage done.

Let me explain.

Traveller’s diarrhoea is simply a form of gastroenteritis (un-affectionately known as ‘gastro’), an intestinal infection that triggers inflammation and injury in your gut.

Like other forms of gastro, it causes symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue and fever, which typically pass with the infection.

However, even in the weeks following the infection, the damage to your intestinal lining can interfere with your gut’s ability to create digestive juices (required to digest your food properly) and house healthy gut bacteria, which make up your gut microbiome (the beneficial bacteria that play an important role in gut health (discussed further here).

Together, the loss of these bugs and the injury to your gut may cause ongoing digestive discomfort, such as chronic bloating or changes to bowel habits.

If left untreated, in some people it may progress to chronic digestive disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (discussed further here)..

‘Traveller’s diarrhoea is simply a form of gastroenteritis (un-affectionately known as ‘gastro’), an intestinal infection that triggers inflammation and injury in your gut.’

If this sounds like you, or someone you know, it might be time to discover the three most important strategies that can help you get your gut back on track with the help of a natural healthcare Practitioner at Your Wellness Centre, outlined below.

Step 1: Start with a Snapshot

Whether you develop chronic gut symptoms after Bali belly depends on a couple of factors.

One is how healthy your gut was, to begin with: if you started off with a lower number of beneficial bacteria, due to factors such as a low-fibre diet or frequent antibiotic use which can disturb your gut bacteria, you may be more likely to develop chronic gut issues following Bali belly.

The second is the type of bug: a super destructive bug can decimate even the healthiest microbiome to the point where knock-on issues start to arise (such as chronic bloating).

Regardless of the situation, if you’ve experienced Bali belly and don’t feel like your gut is back to normal yet, get a snapshot of your gut bacteria through microbiome testing (discussed further here).

This test allows you to assess the damage by revealing every single type of bacteria in your gut (beneficial vs less beneficial) and how they may be impacting your gut health.

his information, you and your naturopath can create a plan together to bring your gut microbiome back into balance.

Step 2: Repair and Regenerate your Gut

After surveying the state of your gut microbiome, it’s time to start repairing your gut using a combination of probiotics, nutrients and herbal extracts.

Probiotic strains including Saccharomyces cerevisiae (boulardii) (SB), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG®) and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis (BB-12®) have been shown to assist with the consequences of traveller’s diarrhoea by:

  • Preventing infections from escalating (blocking infectious bugs from being able to ‘stick’ to your gut lining and causing havoc);
  • Protecting your gut from tissue injury caused by gastro;
  • Restoring a good balance of beneficial gut bacteria lost to infection or treatment with antibiotics.

It’s important to note that these benefits are unique to the above types of probiotic strains; you can’t take just any old probiotic and get the same results.

As such, it’s always worth selecting probiotic strains that are supported by scientific evidence, especially when it might mean the difference between symptom recovery or relapse (discussed further here about why choosing a specific strain matters).

Similarly, nutrients, such as glutamine and zinc, in addition to herbal extracts, such as aloe vera and boswellia, can also repair the damage to your gut lining, by reducing inflammation and providing the nutritional building blocks your gut needs to heal. As such, by combining the power of probiotics, herbs and nutrients, you can help your gut return to its former glory.

‘It’s important to note that these benefits are unique to the above types of probiotic strains; you can’t take just any old probiotic and get the same results. As such, it’s always worth selecting probiotic strains that are supported by scientific evidence, especially it when it might mean the difference between symptom recovery or relapse.’

Step 3: Eat your Way to Gut Health

Eating to maintain your gut health is fundamental to your recovery process, as this helps to restore your beneficial bacteria and can promote gut healing. Start with following these simple tips:

  • Minimise your intake of inflammatory foods (e.g. alcohol or foods high in sugar), as these can make it difficult for your gut to heal;
  • Aim to eat an abundance of plants, particularly a variety of colourful vegetables, as these contain prebiotics known as polyphenols, which help feed and rebuild your good gut bacteria;
  • Limit foods that cause you bloating or discomfort, such as dairy or wheat, just for a few weeks, whilst the gut rebuilds and regains its ability to digest these foods properly.

These are just a few small ways to better your diet and get back on track after Bali’s belly, but for specific dietary advice to suit your unique needs, speak to our qualified and experienced naturopath at Your Wellness Centre.

Destination: Gut Regeneration!

Nothing can make you appreciate the value of good gut health like a bout of gastro! And with the help of a naturopath, you can score a one-way ticket back to living your life without the lingering effects of traveller’s diarrhoea.

Start by being proactive, getting a snapshot of your gut followed by taking steps to heal the gut in conjunction with a healthy diet, so you can get back to your wanderlusting adventures over at your next expedition!

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Stomach Ulcers and their Treatment

Ulcers (also known as peptic ulcers or gastric ulcers) are Man Experiencing Ulcers (also known as peptic ulcers or gastric ulcers)areas of damaged and inflamed tissue in the upper digestive tract that cause pain, indigestion, and discomfort. These lesions can occur in the tissue lining the stomach (gastric ulcer) or the first part of the small intestine that leads out of the stomach, called the duodenum (peptic ulcer). It was once commonly thought that stress, smoking, and diet were the only causes of stomach ulcers.

However, the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterium is now known to be responsible for most ulcers. This bacterium burrows into the lining of the stomach, causing pain and damaging the stomach lining.

H. pylori infection causes about 60 – 80% of all stomach and duodenal ulcers.

What are H. pylori?

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a corkscrew-shaped bacterium that makes itself at home in your digestive system, where it literally burrows into the lining of your stomach or duodenum, causing inflammation and damage.

Over time, H. pylori may lead to the development of an ulcer. For some people, H. pylori infection causes no signs or symptoms and doesn’t lead to any complications, but for most sufferers, H. pylori cause indigestion and reflux, and, eventually, ulcers.

Are you one of the 1 in 4 people that have H. pylori?

H. pylori infections are very common – with as many as 25-30% of all Australians and New Zealanders being affected. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, you may have an H. pylori infection:

     • Decreased appetiteCork-screw shaped bacteria - Stomach Ulcers - Your Wellness Centre
     • Acid taste in the mouth
     • Bad breath
     • Nausea and/or vomiting
     • Indigestion and reflux
     • Frequent burping
     • Bloating
     • Unexplained weight loss
     • An ache or burning pain around your stomach

Natures Answer to Help Manage Ulcers

Unfortunately, modern medicines prescribed for H. pylori infection can cause many unpleasant side effects, and treatment is not always successful.

Some strains of H. pylori are even resistant to antibiotic treatment.

Fortunately, there are effective natural medicines that can be used to assist with the eradication of H. pylori, without the side effects. These include:

  • Lactoferrin: Lactoferrin is a protein found naturally in the human body and in milk. It has antibacterial, antiparasitic, and antifungal actions, and is particularly useful for H. pylori infections.
  • Turmeric: H. pylori infections can result in pain, refluxTurmeric - Curcuma - Your Wellness Centre and indigestion. Turmeric has been shown to be very effective for stomach pain and reflux and has been used traditionally as a digestive soother. Turmeric is also clinically proven to heal ulcers.
  • Essential oils: Essential oils can support a healthy upper digestive system and help kill H. pylori. Wild marjoram and cinnamon essential oils have been used traditionally to improve sluggish digestion. These oils also support the antimicrobial actions of lactoferrin and turmeric, due to their antibacterial and antifungal actions.
  • Zinc carnosine: Zinc carnosine is a form of zinc shown to inhibit the growth of H. pylori and reduce the inflammation associated with an H. pylori infection.
  • Fermented soy protein: Fermented soy protein has been shown to reduce the symptoms of stomach ulcers,
    including heartburn, indigestion, and digestive discomfort.

Reduce the Risk

There are many factors that can increase your risk of getting an H. pylori infection and developing an ulcer, including:
     • Stress
     • Smoking
     • Excessive alcohol consumption
     • Excessive consumption of coffee and/or tea
     • Taking certain anti-inflammatory medications on a regular basis

To reduce the risk of developing an ulcer, avoid the above risk factors, and eat a healthy well-balanced diet, high in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and fish.

Exercise and relaxation are also important lifestyle factors, to help reduce inflammation and stress.

Talk to Us Today!

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of H. pylori infection, or have been diagnosed with this or an ulcer, make an appointment today. Your Natural Healthcare Practitioner can support you in making simple diet and lifestyle changes and recommend the right natural medicine to help assist you in getting your digestive system in tip-top condition once again!

For more information on these natural medicines, come in and speak to one of our Practitioners today.

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Natural Appetite Suppressants

Natural Appetite Suppressants You Can Eat Every Day

Do you avoid pharmaceutical appetite suppressants because of the many serious side effects? If so, you’ll be glad to discover that there are certain foods and spices that can help you lose weight by naturally suppressing your desire to overeat.

Consider trying these natural ingredients in your diet:

GINGER

1. Ginger doesn’t have many calories, but it has a strong, pleasant flavor, and helps you avoid overeating. It’s a popular addition to meals and teas. Ginger root and ginger tea may help you lose weight.

  • You can add it to smoothies, juices, and other drinks, and can also be part of curries or other spicy dishes. You can even eat slices of crystallized ginger.
  • It has fiber, amino acids, and other nutrients that promote health. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce the risk of some diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular issues.

 

AVOCADO

2. Avocado. You may benefit from its monounsaturated fat, which has natural appetite suppressant properties. Avocadoes can make you feel full, so you’re less likely to crave other foods or overeat.

  • Avocado is a healthy choice that has good fats. Although there are many calories and fats in avocados, they are a healthier option than junk food and sugary treats.
  • Consider adding a slice of avocado to your toast in the morning. You can also add it to salads and smoothies or use it as a base for sauces and dips. You can add avocados to pancake batters, quiches, omelets, pizzas, or sandwiches. A slice of avocado on a piece of bread with meat, cheese, and tomato tastes delicious.

 

cayenne pepper

3. Cayenne pepper. Research shows that cayenne pepper and similar strong spices may suppress appetites and help weight loss. One study found that using cayenne pepper can make you eat fewer calories.

  • The chemicals in cayenne pepper may help boost the metabolism and make you feel less hungry. They may also help burn fat in the body.
  • Cayenne pepper can be added to your meals as you cook. It can be sprinkled on salads and added to soups. It can top almost any dish in moderation.

 

apples on the table

4. Apples are an inexpensive and convenient way to suppress the appetite. The fiber and pectin in apples can make you feel full, so you’re less likely to stray from your diet and overeat. Plus, you can enjoy these other appetite-suppressing characteristics of apples:

Apples taste sweet without an enormous amount of calories, so they can feed the craving for sugar without resorting to eating a box of doughnuts.

  • Apples take more time to chew than other foods. This gives your body the time to process what you’re eating and send signals to your brain that you’re full faster. They have also been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels in the body.
  • The multiple varieties of apples also keep things interesting, and you’re less likely to get bored if you eat different types. So, the next time you’re wondering what to eat, grab an apple from the kitchen!

Enjoy these natural appetite suppressants as you diet. Keep in mind that exercise and a generally healthy overall eating plan are also important for losing weight.

 

Read more:

How to Strengthen the Immune System Naturally

Healthy Habits that Help the Immune System

 

Take the step toward a healthier you!
Call 9879 9596 and book an appointment today!

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Good Gut Health in Weight Loss

Gut Bacteria and their Effect on your Weight

If you’ve been doing everything else to lose weight without the success, then it’s worth taking a look at your gut health.

We all know that exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate sleep are all needed for maintaining a healthy weight.

Fundamental to good gut health is Gut Bacteria. So let’s look further at their role in weight loss.

Besides this, evidence is now revealing that your gut bacteria also need to be healthy because it dictates how your body regulates and maintains its weight!

This collection of 37 trillion organisms (mainly bacteria) within your digestive tract is known as your microbiome or gut microbiota.

microbiome pictures

Your Microbiome: Fat Burning or Storing? 

While each person’s gut microbiota is unique, clear trends show the gut bacteria in a lean person is different from that in an overweight person.

Healthy gut microbiota in a lean individual is seen as having a diverse range of beneficial bugs, with very few ‘bad’ microbes that disrupt the health of the gut.

Once the gut microbiota is in this healthy state, these good bacteria send messages to the body to maintain its weight within a healthy range.

This means it could prevent weight gain.

Alternatively, the gut bacteria in an overweight person is often shown to have less of these good bacteria.

This imbalance in the gut is a condition known as “dysbiosis”.

In a state of dysbiosis, bacteria begin to act differently: extracting more calories from food, storing more energy as fat, and triggering inflammation within the gut itself.

All of these factors result in the body storing more fat, especially around the waist (known as visceral fat).

probiotic foods

Increasing Your Good Bugs

Therefore, supporting your microbiome to be as healthy, diverse, and free from bad bacteria as possible may be a crucial step in maintaining a healthy weight.

Probiotics are a potent way to positively influence the health of your microbiome, as they work by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria while reducing the growth of unwanted microbes.

However, it is very important to select the right probiotic strain for your needs, as different strains have different actions and health benefits.

A specific probiotic strain displaying benefit for the microbiome and body weight is Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis (B420™).

Evidence shows it improves the health and diversity of the microbiome, decreases the inflammation caused by dysbiosis, and reduces energy uptake from food.

Which together results in overall reductions in weight gain – helping to keep your waist trim.

Your Trim and Terrific Toolkit

Beyond probiotics, employing key diet and lifestyle strategies is also imperative to maintaining ideal body composition:

Regular exercise: such as walking, yoga, swimming, and weights.

This helps to burn fat for energy and can reduce high levels of hormones such as adrenaline that promote weight gain.

Filling up on fruits, vegetables, lean meats, legumes, and healthy fats helps to naturally regulate your appetite and curb cravings.

As a bonus, high fiber foods are the favorite fuel source of your good bacteria!

 

Take the step toward a healthier you!
Call 9879 9596 and book an appointment today!

 

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy Melbourne

 

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Understanding Abdominal Cramping and Digestive Symptoms

Abdominal Cramping, Bloating, Flatulence, Constipation, and Diarrhoea

Since we often see clients who have abdominal cramps along with either bloating, constipation, diarrhoea or flatulence, we thought we’d look at the connection between abdominal cramps and these types of digestive issues.

We’ll start by looking at your stomach which is one of the hardest working systems in your body.
The action of your stomach is to digest food and extract nutrients to sustain you.
However, if something disturbs this, digestive symptoms such as those mentioned above can result.

While many of these are normal, others may indicate something more serious.
Understanding these symptoms and their implications is important for maintaining overall wellness.

 

Bloating Flatulence Constipation Diarrhoea - Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy

Normal, Everyday Symptoms:

Transient Belly Bloating

Occasional bloating, which is a sensation of fullness or swelling in the abdomen can result from dietary changes or larger meal portions, leading to trapped gas. Chewing food thoroughly, having smaller meals, and aiming for a moderate carbohydrate and fibre intake can help reduce bloating.

Flatulence

Passing gas is normal, and is influenced by diet and gut bacteria. Moderating intake of certain foods, particularly, refined processed foods can reduce flatulence.

 

Health Caution - Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy

Symptoms That Require Attention:

Chronic Constipation

Infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools often accompanied by discomfort, may indicate insufficient fibre intake or dysbiosis (an imbalance in the types and levels of gut bacteria).

Additionally, chronic constipation is associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a condition that affects the function of the bowel.
Increasing fibre-rich foods, including fruit and vegetables, and drink enough water, as well as prebiotic and probiotic supplements can aid in relieving constipation.

Diarrhoea

Frequent, loose or watery stools that occurs more than three times daily may mean infection or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Seeking professional diagnosis and treatment is required for managing these conditions.
However, if your symptoms are associated with antibiotic use, we supply Metagenics Ultra Flora Intensive Care, which may help to restore healthy intestinal bacteria and relieve diarrhoea.

Malodorous Gas

Imbalances in gut bacteria can lead to smelly gas. Probiotic supplements containing specific strains may help restore a healthy balance.

 

 

Gut Pain - Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy

Abdominal Cramps or Pain

Sharp, dull, stabbing, cramp-like, or twisting pain in your abdomen.
Different types of abdominal pain can have various causes, the most common being gas pain, food intolerances or allergies, or indigestion. Abdominal pain can also be a sign of something more serious, including appendicitis, gallstones, ulcers, infections, kidney stones. Persistent or severe abdominal pain needs to be addressed by a healthcare professional.

 

The Connection Between Abdominal Cramps and Digestive Symptoms

Abdominal Cramps often occurs together with one of these: Bloating, Constipation, Diarrhoea, or Flatulence.

Abdominal Cramps and Bloating: Bloating, characterised by abdominal swelling, often accompanies abdominal cramps due to trapped gas in the digestive system. Dietary choices and underlying digestive issues can contribute to both symptoms.

Abdominal Cramps and Constipation: Infrequent bowel movements and difficulty passing stools are common issues associated with abdominal cramps. Insufficient fibre intake and poor bowel habits can exacerbate both constipation and cramping.

Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhoea: Loose stools and frequent bowel movements often coincide with abdominal cramps, indicating disturbances in the digestive system. Infections, dietary triggers, and gastrointestinal conditions can contribute to both symptoms.

Abdominal Cramps and Flatulence: Excessive gas production and abdominal cramps can occur due to imbalances in gut bacteria and dietary factors. Managing flatulence often involves dietary modifications and addressing underlying gut health issues.

Identifying Common Causes and Effective Management Strategies

As mentioned above, several factors contribute to the development of abdominal cramps, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, and flatulence.
Dietary triggers such as high-fat foods, food intolerances, and excessive consumption of gas-producing foods can aggravate digestive discomfort.
Additionally, lifestyle factors like stress, inadequate hydration, and sedentary habits can impact digestive function and contribute to cramping.

The Impact of Gut Health:

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is important for digestive health and overall well-being. Imbalances in gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis, can disrupt digestive processes and contribute to symptoms like abdominal cramps, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea.
Supporting gut health with probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary modifications can help restore balance and reduce symptoms.

Managing abdominal cramps and their associated symptoms requires an approach tailored to individual needs.
Dietary modifications, such as increasing fibre intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding trigger foods, can help alleviate digestive discomfort.
Probiotic supplements, digestive enzymes, and lifestyle changes like stress management and regular exercise can also support digestive health and reduce cramping.

Seeking Professional Guidance

Persistent or severe symptoms accompanied by other warning signs need professional treatment. Diagnostic tests can help identify underlying causes and lead to appropriate treatment options, ensuring personalised care for individuals experiencing digestive discomfort.

Conclusion

Understanding the connection between abdominal cramps and digestive symptoms is crucial for effective management and overall gut health. By addressing dietary, lifestyle, and gut health factors, individuals can alleviate symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Remember to consult a healthcare practitioner at Your Wellness Centre for personalised professional guidance and optimal digestive wellness.

If you regularly experience one or more problematic symptoms, particularly if they’re new or getting worse, consult with a Natural Health Practitioner at Your Wellness Centre for further investigation to devise an individualized comprehensive plan of attack that is suitable for you.

Our healthcare practitioners have a suite of testing available to investigate the driver behind your symptoms.

A stool analysis test enables us to identify all of the bacteria and other microorganisms that inhabit your gut and how they contribute to your gut function and digestive symptoms.

You can read more about MetaBiome™ testing here.

 

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy Melbourne

 

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Best Way to Detoxify your body

Best Way to Detoxify

detox - Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy

One of the best things you can do for your health is to detoxify.
If you’re reading this, you probably already feel that a detoxification process could be helpful.
So, to reinforce what you’re thinking, here are some indicators that are a sure sign that a detox could be useful.

Choosing the best way to detox will be good if you are feeling sluggish, are a bit hormonal, or are overweight.
Also great if you frequently experience digestive symptoms such as constipation, wind or bloating, or if are you in pain!
Supporting detoxification will not only help increase your energy but also improve digestion, aid weight loss, reduce pain, balance hormones and support a healthy mood.

However, if you’re wondering if, and to what extent you might be a  “Detox Candidate”  you might want to do our Detox Questionnaire which you can download here.

So just what is the Best Way to Detox?

You may well be asking…
With so many choices out there and so many quick fixes on pharmacy and health food store shelves, it’s not surprising if you are confused!

The best thing to do is to find out what you really need and, our detox questionnaire can help with this.

On the other hand, you can talk to our Detox Naturopath about whether detox is indicated for you, and which program is most appropriate for your needs. Here are the types of programs that we recommend:

  1. The Health Reset Program is suitable for most individuals. It helps to optimise your detoxification capacity, supports your overall health, and keeps you feeling energised.
  2. The Gut Pathogen Elimination Program is indicated for people with persistent gut conditions, helping to reduce digestive symptoms such as pain, bloating, and wind.  This will leave you with a happier digestive system.
  3. The Liver Chemical Clearance Program is ideal for those with known exposure to chemicals and heavy metals. It enhances the elimination of these toxins to leave you feeling regenerated and vibrant.

Key Ingredients to Enhance Your Detox

When detoxing, there are some special ingredients that do the job well. So I’ve listed those which are key to the success of  your detox program:
Spirulina - Your Wellness Centre NaturopathySpirulina: supports detoxification because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions. It’s particularly useful in assisting the removal of heavy metals from the body.
Milk thistle: reduces the impact of toxins on the liver.
Cape jasmine: protects the liver from damage caused by toxin exposure and aids in the elimination of toxins.
Amino acids (from rice protein): bind to toxins and facilitate their removal.

Detox Your Diet

Not only is it important to take the right supplements, but it is critical to support their actions by making sure you eat a detox-friendly, healthy diet.
This type of diet should include plant-based foods, with plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, legumes, spices, nuts, seeds and whole grains.
It is also important to stay hydrated by drinking 2 to 3 litres of water daily.
As well as this, to maximise its success, it’s best to avoid sources of toxin exposure. This includes avoiding alcohol, caffeine and processed foods.

Detox Your Home and Lifestyle

A detox is a perfect time to give your home a spring clean too!
This can be achieved by choosing natural cleaning products as well as selecting more natural skincare products. In doing so you avoid chemical ingredients that can be absorbed through the lungs and skin.

Other detox tips for best results include:

Keep moving!
Aim for 30 to 40 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise three or four times a week, plus one or two strength training sessions.
Dry skin brushing before your shower for 5 to 10 minutes each day can assist in toxin elimination through the skin.
Reduce toxic emotions and stress by reading positive affirmations that inspire you to fight off negative thoughts.

Toxin Reduction is A Balancing Act

While toxin exposure cannot be avoided, it is possible to improve your ability to cope with and eradicate toxins efficiently.
By completing detox, you effectively reduce your toxin burden by decreasing your level of exposure to various toxins.
You will also improve your ability to process and eliminate toxins from your body (known as toxin resistance) for improved health…so what are you waiting for?!

For more comprehensive support,
Talk to us about a Naturopath Guided Clinical Detox Program, and begin an exciting journey to a happier, healthier you!

Take advantage of our Detoxification Consultation Offer by bringing  this voucher to your Detox appointment:

Detox for Spring 2023

$50 off a Detox Consultation
normally valued at $195 

Now only $145

Valid until Thursday 28th September 2023
(not valid with any other offer)

 
Ring 9879 9596 for an appointment or Book online
Your Wellness Centre
102A Oban Rd

Ringwood North 3134

 

Want to see how you fare?

Take our Detox quiz by clicking here

 

Further information on Detoxification can be found by clicking the links below:

Detoxification

Is It Time to Consider a Detox?

13 Reasons Why You Should Do a Detox Now

 

 

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy Melbourne

 

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What is the Microbiome?

With the ‘Microbiome’ being a hot topic right now for anyone interested in health, it’s worth Understanding the Gut Microbiome,  taking a closer look at what it is and what affects it.

Your gut is home to an ecosystem of microorganisms, and this internal community, known as the gut microbiome, plays a crucial role in your well-being.
It is made up of a massive 38 trillion microbes that includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more.

In short, your microbiome is a flourishing and diverse ecosystem containing a wide variety of beneficial bacteria and microorganisms.

Why would you need a Healthy Microbiome?

When your microbiome is healthy and balanced, it has hardly any potentially harmful or disease-producing bacteria and has wide-reaching beneficial health effects. Here are some of it’s critical functions.

  • Digestion:  Gut bacteria help break down and digest food. In doing so, nutrients are more accessible to your body.
  • Immune System Support: A healthy gut microbiome can strengthen your immune system, helping you fight off infections and diseases. And you get rid of waste products effectively.
  • Mood and Brain Health: Your gut health can affect your mood and mental well-being.
  • Metabolism: The microbiome can influence your metabolism and even play a role in weight management.
  • Inflammation: A balanced gut microbiome can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to various chronic diseases.

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy - Leaky GutBut, if your gut microbiome (or gut ecosystem) is not as good as it could be and needs a little attention, life in general and even your waistline may be quite uncomfortable.

“You might find that If you feel and look bloated regularly without overindulging, your gut microbiome might be trying to tell you something!”

This brings us to looking more closely at something called Dysbiosis, a term used when our gut Bugs are Out of Balance.

So let’s look more closely at this term, Dysbiosis

Disruption to your internal microbial community can create an environment where pathogenic (disease-causing) organisms are able to grow and flourish.

This means there is a reduction in both the number and/or diversity of the beneficial microorganisms in your gut.

This imbalance in your gut microbiome is termed ‘dysbiosis’ and can lead to a number of negative health effects.

This can be digestive complaints, nutrient deficiencies and a compromised immune system which can lead to allergies and/or frequent illness.

Put plainly, dysbiosis disrupts the healthy functioning of your gut.

When this happens you could experience some uncomfortable symptoms like digestive pain and bloat.

It could also lead to nutritional deficiencies or even a compromised immune system.

Five ways you can upset your microbiome and cause Dysbiosis

  1. Eating a low fibre diet: as your gut microbes rely on the fibre in your food for fuel, a low fibre diet leads to a reduction in the diversity of your microbiome.
  2. Alcohol intake: the consumption of alcohol can result in dysbiotic changes in your intestinal microbiome.
    It also triggers gastrointestinal inflammation. So, If you’re consuming more than one standard drink per day, your microbiome’s probably keen for you to abstain a bit more often!
  3. Unmanaged stress: when you are stressed, the release of the stress hormone cortisol, and adrenaline sensitise your body to inflammation, including gut inflammation. This disrupts the gut environment, compromising the conditions your beneficial microbes need to flourish.
  4. Leading a sedentary lifestyle: lack of exercise has also been linked to reduced microbial diversity in the gut – another reason to get moving!
  5. Antibiotic use: a round of antibiotics does lead to some loss of core commensal organisms (antibiotics are supposed to kill off bacteria however in this instance the good stuff goes too). This leaves the gut susceptible to microbiome imbalances and dysfunction. Due to this disruption, up to 10% of people experience gastrointestinal side effects5 from antibiotic use, referred to as antibiotic-associated diarrhoea (AAD).

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy - Gut Benefits of ProbioticsDysbiosis and bloating have also been linked with digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as well as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

SIBO is a type of chronic infection in which bacteria that usually live in the large bowel reproduce in large numbers and travel to the small intestine, somewhere they should not be.

This can cause excessive bloating, flatulence and digestive discomfort.

“If you suffer from a digestive disorder, you could have an imbalance in your gut microbiome that needs addressing.”

Gut Bacteria that release methane gas

Some of the bacteria involved in dysbiosis, release methane gas.

If you have dysbiosis, these gut bacteria, also known as ‘methanogens’ may well be lurking in your gut.

When they break down fibre from your food, these bacteria release methane gas.

This can cause bloating, sluggish digestion, slow transit time (the amount of time food takes to travel from your mouth, through your gut, and out the other end), constipation, bloating, flatulence and gut discomfort.

Because excess methane production is connected with chronic constipation, it may be worth finding out if methanogens are making you feel stopped up.

Gut Discomfort - Your Wellness Centre NaturopathyIn short, Bad Bugs cause disruption!

By disrupting your internal gut microbiome, dysbiosis can create an environment where disease-causing organisms have the opportunity to flourish.

How do we get these disease-causing organisms?

Well, we simply pick up potentially harmful bacteria and stubborn yeasts in our daily activities!

As mentioned above, This could be from our dietary choices, some antibiotic use, a lack of exercise or unmanaged stress.

If our gut microbiome is really good, it is able to kill off and dispose of these critters very effectively.

On the other hand, if our gut microbiome is struggling, disease-causing bugs can take over.

Perhaps you have had a bout of gastro?

This brings us to when you first noticed your gut issues.

Perhaps it coincided with a nasty bout of gastro or if you’ve been overseas where you had a bad case of Bali’s belly!

Now such an infection even though successfully treated, can leave you with dysbiosis that can persist. What this can do is leave you vulnerable to further infection.

It’s not unusual to find that after traditional treatment, you have lingering symptoms that can include bouts of nausea, gut pain, loose bowels, constipation, brain fog and severe bloating.

Find the reason for your Chronic Bloating! We now understand that there are multiple reasons why you could be chronically bloated.

So let’s look at the best way to find out what’s going on in your gut. This is by taking a microbiome test.

The results of the Metabiome™ test can help you bring balance back to your gut microbiome and reduce those uncomfortable gut symptoms.

You can read more about Microbiome Testing Here.

It’s Best to Test

Many of our patients with gut issues, have an obviously distorted belly and explain how they can’t tie their belt…

If you sometimes feel like they do, it might well be your microbiome showing these symptoms of bloating, discomfort or dysbiosis.

The results of the Metabiome™ test can highlight what needs to be done to bring balance back to your gut microbiome and reduce those uncomfortable gut symptoms.

Make an appointment with us to have this simple test and get some answers.

 

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy Melbourne

 

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Leaky Gut and Gut Health

Since gut pain, bloating, gastric discomfort and other digestive problems may also have underlying leaky gut problems, I thought you might like to have a read of this information on Leaky Gut.

Leaky Gut

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy - Leaky GutPut simply, Leaky Gut syndrome happens when large spaces (or holes) develop in the gut wall.

This allows bacteria, toxins, and food particles to leak into the bloodstream from the gut… hence its name “Leaky Gut”.

The definition of Leaky Gut Syndrome is an “increase in permeability of the intestinal mucosa to bigger molecules, antigens, and toxins associated with inflammatory degenerative and or atrophic mucosa or lining.”

Let’s look at the Digestive Tract

The digestive tract is an elaborate system that involves organs from the mouth to the colon.

The small intestine performs an essential barrier function in keeping the body free from allergies.

The intestine’s membrane acts as a wall separating undigested food and the bloodstream.

When intact and healthy, the digestive tract organs break down food into smaller, usable molecules, which then are sent through the bloodstream to nourish the body’s tissues.

Some amount of wall permeability is common.

In people with a normal, intact gut, up to 20 percent of undigested protein can pass through the mucous membranes.

Excessively permeability causes problems

But when there is inflammation in the gastrointestinal mucosa, the intestinal wall becomes excessively permeable (lots of little gaps or holes form)– a condition called ‘leaky gut syndrome.

If bits of food has not been properly broken down due to imbalances in the digestive tract, food molecules, which are usually too large to pass through the intestinal barrier, slip through the gaps in the gut wall and enter the bloodstream.

When this happens, the immune system treats these foreign substances as antigens (antigens can cause food intolerance and/or allergies).

This sets off an allergic response in which antibodies are secreted in the bloodstream to bind with these foreign substances.

Leaky Gut Syndrome may cause the intestinal lining to become inflamed and the microvilli become damaged or altered.

The damaged microvilli cannot then produce the enzymes and secretions that are essential for healthy digestion and the absorption of nutrients.

Leaky Gut Syndrome is a very common problem in modern society.

Common causes of both Leaky Gut

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy - Gut Benefits of Probiotics

Common causes of both leaky gut and digestive dysfunction are antibiotics, certain drugs, enzyme deficiencies, parasites, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, viruses, toxins, mercury, alcohol, stress, and certain food intolerances.

And of course, we all at some time or other have been prescribed necessary antibiotics or even non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

They both damage the natural balance of good microbiota that the bowel requires to operate at its best.

And over time we may start getting the overt symptoms of Leaky Gut.

Of course, there are natural ways to effectively treat this.

If you would like more information, simply let us know by contacting us here. 

 

Take the step toward a healthier you!
Call 9879 9596 and book an appointment today!

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy Melbourne

 

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Gut Health Quiz

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Polyphenols and Gut Health

One of the lesser-known benefits of consuming a diet high in polyphenols is its beneficial impact on your gut bacteria.

Polyphenols help the Gut

They selectively encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria.

They are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in many of your favourite foods like blueberries and chocolate and they act like good food for your microbiome.

It contributes to good intestinal health by supporting the gut microbial balance by encouraging the production of beneficial bacteria and discouraging the growth of bad bacteria.

Benefits of Polyphenols

The portion of these foods that are beneficial to your inner health is the part that your body does not digest at all.

You see, once consumed, only about 5-10% of polyphenols are directly absorbed in the small intestine, while the rest make their way to the colon. 

The undigested part of the polyphenol-rich foods that make it to the colon increases the good guys and decreases the bad guys helping create a healthy microbiome.

And with a healthy microbiome comes more energy better moods better sleep less pain happier belly and more balanced immunity. 

Good health starts with the gut, so eat lots of polyphenol-rich food to keep your bugs happy and so to keep you healthy.

Foods that contain Polyphenol

wine, dark chocolate, berries, avocado, greens, fish, nutsThey are found in foods such as tea, wine, chocolates, fruits, vegetables, and extra virgin olive oil, just to name a few.

You can benefit by specifically including apples, blueberries, plums, strawberries, cherries, raspberry, pomegranate, broccoli, spinach, rosemary, thyme, basil, curcumin, and other spices; dark chocolate, flaxseed meal,  red wine,  resveratrol containing foods,  weak black tea, peppermint tea, green tea.

So worth looking into including more of these to support a healthier gut.

 

Your Wellness Centre Naturopathy Melbourne

 

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