For what seems like a millennium, humans have been asking, “How does the gut work, and which functions are normal?” We know the basics—what goes into our bodies will be digested, then eventually come out. But what about the in-between process? What about the deeper functions and structure of the gut? The microbiome is one of the most complex parts of the human body, and it’s crucial in maintaining our health and well-being. 

The microbiome refers to a community of microorganisms—including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa—that live in and on our bodies. We coexist with some of these organisms in a synergistic and symbiotic manner, but others can wreak havoc on our health, especially when they take over in abundance. This overgrowth is commonly referred to as excess dysbiosis. If the excess includes inflammatory bacteria, you might experience gut pain, as well as joint pain and other uncomfortable symptoms.  

The beneficial microbes support your digestion in the breakdown of food and nutrient absorption. They can also protect against the harmful pathogens we can be exposed to through contaminated food or water. Beneficial, balanced microbes also influence out weight, blood sugar, brain health, sleep, and skin, just to name a few.   

We need beneficial microbes to support our immune system and protect us against infection. If we do not have enough of them, we can suffer from deficiency dysbiosis. Either an excess or deficiency can cause digestive issues, both of which are uncomfortable and difficult to treat with conventional medical strategies.  

What we eat and how we live are essential to maintain a balanced strong microbiome. Consuming a diverse and nutrient-rich diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins will provide beneficial microbes with the necessary fuel to thrive. You might have experimented with fiber or pre- and probiotics, only to find no change in symptoms (or they became even worse). The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics can disrupt your microbiome, killing both harmful and beneficial bacteria, so limit these to when you absolutely need them.   

Stress increases inflammation and promotes the overgrowth of opportunistic and inflammatory bacteria. Incorporating meditation, yoga, and massage is an essential strategy to reduce chronic stress. So, how can you figure out what your microbiome makeup is?  

First, identify the symptoms that are not normal such as gut pain, bloating, acid reflux, vomiting, gas, diarrhea, constipation, fecal incontinence, and visible blood. Depending on your circumstance and health history, some of these symptoms will require immediate referral to gastroenterology and diagnostic procedures such as colonoscopy and endoscopy. If you have already been down this road, but the symptoms continue to persist, then consider pursuing functional medicine treatments. 

Specialized testing will help determine your specific gut makeup and treat it with plant-based supplements, lifestyle changes, and other targeted protocols. In my opinion, stool analysis is the premier way to understand how to optimize your gut health and resolve symptoms that are disturbing your quality of life.  

Changes in diet are generally advisable, especially if the symptoms are in direct response to consumption. For example, fatty or fried foods can slow digestion and cause bloating, discomfort, or diarrhea. Spicy foods might cause acid reflux or heartburn. Dairy products can lead to bloating, gas, or diarrhea in those with lactose intolerance. High-fiber foods like beans and some vegetables can lead to gas and cramps if you have excess dysbiosis. Gluten-containing foods can cause digestive issues like diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal pain in those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Sugar alcohols like sorbitol can cause bloating, diarrhea, and smelly flatulence. So, what can you do to help resolve these issues? 

Seek specialized help, undergo tests, then follow a treatment plan which includes targeted nutritional supplementation to eliminate pathogens, reduce overgrowth of disruptive bacteria, increase beneficial bacteria, balance the microbiome, support organs of digestion, heal the lining of the stomach, and seal a leaky gut. Incorporate lifestyle strategies to reduce stress, increase exercise, and maintain optimal hydration. Modalities like acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic can also mitigate symptoms related to a gut disorder.  

Remember, it’s not normal to restrict numerous food groups from your diet because eating them causes pain, bloating, or other symptoms. You can reclaim control of your health, seek specialized help, assess your microbiome, and repair the imbalances that exist. It is possible to change your wellness and quality of life—starting with your gut.  

Dr. Captain is a highly skilled expert in the field of Acupuncture. She has performed over 200,000 patient treatments in her career which spans over two decades. In addition to lecturing and teaching across the country and globe, her practice in Sarasota serves as a training facility for healthcare practitioners all over the U.S. and internationally. Dr. Captain's knowledge and enthusiasm for wellness has earned her a nationwide reputation as a qualified lecturer, keynote speaker, and expert teacher. For more information, visit https://www.sarasotacenterforacupunctureandnutrition.com/ or call 941-951-1119.