Well, numerous studies have shown a strong correlation between a healthy gut microbiome and overall well-being. Your gut health is at the core of your overall health, and when it’s optimized, it significantly reduces your risk for various diseases.
Unfortunately, gastrointestinal or digestive concerns are often ignored by traditional healthcare systems. Many individuals hesitate to discuss their bowel habits and gut health with their healthcare providers, and even when they do, there’s often a lack of time to thoroughly address these concerns.
Gut health refers to the balance of microorganisms in your large intestine, known as the microbiome. A healthy gut means that the microbiome has a balanced mix of beneficial and harmful microorganisms. However, an imbalance, called dysbiosis, can occur when there is an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and a decrease in beneficial ones. This imbalance can affect how your body breaks down and absorbs nutrients from food, which, in turn, impacts immune, brain, and hormonal health. Dysbiosis is often associated with an increase in intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as leaky gut.
Scientific research has shown that the gut microbiome influences various aspects of health, including weight and obesity, diabetes, immunity, sleep, and skin. Moreover, the inflammation caused by poor gut health can contribute to conditions such as arthritis, depression, and the development of certain cancers.
But what can your bowel habits tell you about your gut?
Well, your gut is home to a wide range of microorganisms. The presence of too few healthy bacteria and an overabundance of unhealthy bacteria can influence your bowel habits. The frequency and quality of your bowel movements provide valuable insights into your gut health. Consistency, color, and frequency can indicate your ability to digest and absorb nutrients, as well as eliminate toxins. Abnormalities in bowel habits may indicate underlying inflammation, infections, or other issues.
Your gut and immune system are intimately connected. In fact, nearly 70% of your immune system resides in your gut. It is crucial to improve your gut health to maintain a balanced and resilient immune system. A healthy gut lining acts as a barrier, preventing the leakage of toxins and foreign molecules that can trigger autoimmune responses, leading to organ, nerve, joint, and skin damage.
At OWM Integrative Wellness, we offer naturopathic medicine, which combines centuries-old knowledge and a nature-centric philosophy with the latest research on health and human systems. Our naturopathic physician, Dr. Kim Howes, integrates conventional, scientific, and empirical methodologies to identify and treat the underlying causes of poor gut health and inflammation. Unlike conventional medicine, we provide the time necessary for in-depth discussions of your health concerns. We also have access to innovative specialty tests that can measure blood inflammatory markers and various stool markers, helping us identify the root causes of intestinal dysbiosis and permeability.
Based on the test results, we develop individualized treatment plans that aim to rebalance the microorganisms in your microbiome. These plans may include supplements, herbal recommendations, dietary modifications, and lifestyle support, including stress management techniques.
Our gut health evaluation is beneficial for anyone who experiences bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, brain fog, joint pain and stiffness, or unexplained skin rashes. We understand the strong connection between gut health and physical and emotional well-being. Dr. Kim Howes will work closely with you to identify the root causes of your gut issues and develop a comprehensive roadmap to your recovery.
To learn more about Dr. Kim Howes and OWM Integrative Wellness, visit our website: owmintegrativewellness.com. Watch a brief video where one of Dr. Howes’ clients shares her gut healing story: https://youtu.be/efDCsGZjXK8. You can request a gut health consultation online or call our office at 716.453.2252.
We look forward to helping you improve your gut health and overall well-being.
