Healthy Digestion
Do you suffer from heartburn, reflux, gas and bloating, constipation, or other digestive discomforts? Have you been diagnosed with IBS but do not see any improvement? Do you feel unwell, sluggish, foggy, or unfocused? Improve your digestion and improve your health!
Visit a Dietitian in Seattle specializing in digestive health, food intolerance, and wellness.
"Digestion is the seat of good health"; "We are only as healthy as our digestion"- these are some of my favorite phrases as they sum up the holistic perspective on digestion and health. Some say that the digestive system functions in reaction to the world around us; it is actually an open system and is continually called upon to evaluate our environment.
Did you know that we actually have a second brain in the gut? Referred to as the "enteric nervous system" it communicates directly with the Central Nervous System and contains more neurons than the spinal cord! The human digestive tract also contains up to 4 pounds of bacteria. These bacteria have multiple functions such as nutrient absorption and even generation of some vitamins, they also effect the functioning of the immune system and our general digestive health. A healthy gut ecosystem contains a balance of healthy bacteria.
The nutrient depleted modern diet can wreak havoc on the delicate balance of intestinal bacteria and a high stress lifestyle can compromise the neurotransmitter function of our gut. These insults to our digestive tract can manifest as heartburn, gastritis, gas and bloating, pain, constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), food allergies, skin disorders and nutrient deficiencies. Poor digestion can also aggravate emotional issues and vice versa.
Restoring digestion involves improving the diet, clarifying and removing potential allergens, supporting adequate digestion, supporting the healthy growth of the cells that line the intestines, rebuilding healthy bacteria, and restoring ecological balance. When healing digestion, it is also critical to look at stress and lifestyle and promote mind-body balance.
Some people see immediate improvements with dietary changes while some need additional supplementation. A detox diet is a powerful tool to "reset" the body systems.
Some simple ways to support digestion are: eat plenty of fiber from a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, eat "probiotic" foods such as kefir, yogurt, kim chee, tempeh, kombucha, and other naturally fermented foods, eat smaller, more frequent meals, chew well and have relaxing mealtimes, and cut down on added sugars and avoid processed foods.
Some people may also benefit from additional support such as digestive enzymes, probiotics, and herbal teas. Whole grains, nuts, seeds, and beans can also be soaked and sprouted for easier optimum nutrient utilization.
Make an appointment today to find out what can work for you! Support your digestion and improve your health