Often when my clients talk about GI issues (you know ’em – constipation, diarrhea, pain, gas, bloating) I am surprised to hear them say that it has been going on for so long that they are just used to it. Matters worse – is that often they avoid certain foods, even entire food groups and take over the counter medications to treat the symptoms. My response? It doesn’t have to be this way.
Many of my clients have a defined GI diagnosis or at least have the symptoms of constipation, diarrhea, pain, gas, bloating… etc. Of course this has a totally negative effect on daily living; but also what often comes from these issues is that their body is truly not getting the nutrients that it needs to support a healthy immune system. Your immune system is very dependent on things like vitamin C, antioxidants like glutathione and vitamin E, and protein or amino acids. When intestinal dysfunctions arise, the body’s ability to digest and even absorb is compromised. This can be a huge problem long term as we start to see other symptoms or conditions (especially food sensitivities) that begin to arise.
Testing for nutritional deficiencies, especially in those with IBS or other intestinal problems, is essential and most times very enlightening. Good news: testing quality is better than ever and it’s affordable too!
I always recommend prebiotic foods (think leeks, asparagus, artichokes, onions, garlic) and probiotic foods (think yogurt, sauerkraut, miso soup, kimchi, kombucha). Be mindful – probiotic supplements are not all created equal- they have different potencies, can contain allergens, and some use bacteria strains that are not really helpful. It is important to choose wisely.
Don’t get comfortable with dealing with daily GI issues – if these things are going on for you, I can show you a better way. You don’t have to settle. https://kyoungnutrition.com/schedule-now/
Kimberly Young, M.S. is a practicing Nutritionist in Dallas, Texas. Learn about her integrative and functional approach to diet and nutrition at kyoungnutrition.com
Leave a Reply