What is it?

In order for our bodies to function optimally, we need to have a well functioning digestive system. This means at least one, fully formed, easy to pass bowel movement per day, with little to no bloating. Our digestion can get thrown off by many factors including, but not limited to, stress, chronic antibiotic use, bacterial infection, and diet or eating patterns. When constipation, diarrhea, or severe gas and bloating arise, your digestive system is not functioning properly and this affects your overall heath.

Step-by-step approach to treatment

Comprehensive intake and relevant lab testing
We always start by gathering your complete health history, assessing not only the symptoms specific to your digestion, but also those which relate to the foundations of health - including diet, lifestyle, stress, energy levels and sleep. Depending on the digestive concern and how long you’ve been struggling with it, relevant lab testing is always discussed. By obtaining lab results, specifically bloodwork, we get a clearer insight into the function of your body’s physiology. These insights are a great tool for guiding treatment.

Lab tests commonly run to assess digestive concerns include:

• Inflammatory markers (to assess for intestinal inflammation)

• Nutrient status (due to the possibility of decreased nutrient absorption)

• Fecal occult blood test (to look for blood in the stool)

• SIBO testing (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)

• GI Map test (Comprehensive stool analysis)

• Thyroid panel

Supporting the foundations of health
As with any health concern, supporting the foundations of health is essential improving digestion, and always where treatment starts.This includes assessing and addressing stress levels, sleep quality, energy levels, inflammation, insulin regulation, digestive function and nutrient deficiencies.

Customized treatment plan
Once lab results have been interpreted, a customized treatment plan will be created just for YOU. This is not a one-size-fits-all treatment plan, but rather one that is specific to your individual health concerns that addresses your body’s physiology. You will leave your appointment with your written treatment plan as well as any relevant handouts so that you feel equipped to start your treatments when you get home.
We understand that starting on a new regime of supplements and implementing lifestyle and dietary changes can be overwhelming. If you need support along the way, know that we are here for you. Additional check-in appointments can be made to support you on your journey to optimal health.

Follow up testing and treatment adjustments
Typically we book a follow up appointment 3 months and 6 months after starting your treatment plan so we can assess symptoms and retest necessary labs. It is our goal that, after treatment has begun, you will start to feel noticeable improvements. In some cases it’s not that simple and further assessment is required. Know that if you’re not seeing improvements, we can always reassess, do further testing and make adjustments to your plan along the way. The goal is to get you not only feeling better, but feeling like YOU again!

Maintenance - addressing any new concerns
While we are here for you at any time along your health journey, it is not our goal to have you come in for regular appointments. Once you’ve started to have success with your treatment plan you may only require annual, bi-annual or as-needed appointments. In these appointments we assess the original concerns you presented, as well as any new symptoms or concerns you are experiencing.