Gut Health Specialists Near Me

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FAQs:

What is Gut Health?

Gut health refers to the overall health of your digestive tract. It is a term that's come to prominence over the last couple of decades as more research has been done into what constitutes a healthy gut and how the well-being of your gut affects your health overall.

How Does Your Gut Affect Your Health?

Gut bacteria are an important component of the microbiota ecosystem in the human gut, which is colonized by 1014 microbes, ten times more than the human cells. Gut bacteria play an important role in human health, such as supplying essential nutrients, synthesizing vitamin K, aiding in the digestion of cellulose, and promoting angiogenesis and enteric nerve function. However, they can also be potentially harmful due to the change of their composition when the gut ecosystem undergoes abnormal changes in light of the use of antibiotics, illness, stress, aging, bad dietary habits, and lifestyle. Dysbiosis of the gut bacteria communities can cause many chronic diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, cancer, and autism. This review summarizes and discusses the roles and potential mechanisms of gut bacteria in human health and diseases.

Can Poor Gut Health Cause Anxiety?

The brain has a direct effect on the stomach and intestines. For example, the very thought of eating can release the stomach's juices before food gets there. This connection goes both ways. A troubled intestine can send signals to the brain, just as a troubled brain can send signals to the gut. Therefore, a person's stomach or intestinal distress can be the cause or the product of anxiety, stress, or depression. That's because the brain and the gastrointestinal (GI) system are intimately connected.

How Long Does it Take to Improve Gut Health?

With research in the gut microbiome — the thousands of microorganisms that live in our digestive system — booming over the past decade or so, scientists have explored how gut health can impact issues like inflammation, metabolism, and immune health as well as mental health and overall well-being.

In one study, researchers fed one group of people a plant-based diet and another one heavy on meat, but low on fiber. The microbiomes of both groups changed drastically within 24 hours. They also “bounced back” when the subjects reverted to their normal diet. That’s good to know because it demonstrates that small lifestyle lapses need not be devastating to your microbiome.

Even though it shifts rapidly, if you go back to what you did before, it will likely revert. Follow-up work showed that eating a gut-friendly diet for about six months helped solidify positive changes in the gut.

Can Bad Gut Health Cause Scalp Problems?

The health of the gut and its microbiome, or bacterial intestinal environment, can affect the scalp and hair. The scalp, the skin, the mouth, and the nose all have their microbiota with a delicate balance of microorganisms. Any alteration of this balance can result in certain symptoms and even diseases. The scalp and intestinal microbiota are intertwined and responsive to one another.

Do Children with Type 1 Diabetes Have Issues with Gut Health?

Type 1 diabetes most often occurs in children and adolescents and is a disease in which a person’s pancreas produces little or no insulin. The prevalence of type 1 diabetes in children is related not only to genetic predisposition but also to environmental factors such as gut health and gut microbiota composition. The gut microbiome is a community of bacteria within the gastrointestinal tract that has a major influence on metabolism, body weight, the development of disease, and the immune system.

Does Gut Health Affect the Immune System?

Your gut contains a thin wall of cells that work as a barrier between what stays in your intestine and what passes into your bloodstream. Behind that barrier are cells linked to your immune system that are constantly sensing what is in your gut. These cells are a vital part of the body’s immune response when you’re sick.

Every time we eat, our gut bacteria break down our food and use it to grow. As this process occurs, healthy gut bacteria produce beneficial compounds that help you function optimally and are beneficial for the way your immune system functions.

It is also possible that if you have an imbalance of bacteria in your gut they can produce compounds that lead to an inflammatory response that isn’t supportive for your overall health and immunity. This can be caused by stress, a highly-processed diet, or repeated bouts of antibiotics, amongst other things.

That’s why eating a diet that encourages a healthy balance of bacteria is so important – to ensure your gut bacteria (gut flora) aren’t wasting their precious immune response resources fighting inflammation. Having a gut containing plenty of healthy bacteria leaves the immune system with plenty of time to handle its many complex everyday functions.

How Does Gut Health Affect Mental Health?

The brain and the gut are intimately connected and send signals back and forth. Emerging evidence suggests that imbalances in the gut microbiota can disrupt this communication, potentially leading to mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and even neurodevelopmental conditions.

The gut microbiota produces and interacts with various compounds, including neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), playing crucial roles in regulating mood and emotions. Serotonin, known as the "happy hormone," is primarily produced in the gut and influences mood, sleep, and appetite. Scharf says disruptions in the gut microbiota can interfere with the production and signaling of these neurotransmitters, contributing to mental health disorders. Studies have found higher rates of depression and anxiety in patients with GI disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis.

Is Eczema Linked to Gut Health?

The link between eczema and gut health lies in the gut-skin axis, which refers to the way intestinal flora influence the microbes that live on the skin. Scientists are not sure how this works but believe that an imbalanced microbiome may play a role in the inflammation and immune response that causes eczema.

Microbiome imbalance, or dysbiosis, is when someone has too many “bad” species of microbe, not enough “good” species, or a general lack of diversity.

Making changes that promote a healthy microbiome, such as eating a plant-based and anti-inflammatory diet, may help some people with their symptoms. However, more research is necessary to understand how the microbiome may be relevant to eczema treatment.

Is Fasting Good for Gut Health?

Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that involves periods of the day where you don’t eat — or days where you significantly reduce your food intake — alternating with periods where you eat as normal. Initial evidence suggests that intermittent fasting may benefit your gut health, particularly by increasing the diversity of your gut microbiome and the “good” gut bugs that make their home there. Certain foods may improve your gut health while intermittent fasting, as well as help support you during fasting periods. These include fermented foods containing probiotics, as well as plant foods and whole grains — especially those with prebiotics that provide fuel for your gut bugs.

Can Poor Gut Health Cause Weight Gain?

Scientists are currently determining whether our gut microbes influence our appetite and if so, whether by controlling our gut microbes we might find an effective tool to aid weight management. One research team concluded that gut bacteria may play a part in controlling when and how much we eat. They found that gut microbes produce the hormones needed for appetite regulation 20 minutes after being given nutrients. Other research highlights the importance of probiotics and prebiotics in their ability to influence our food consumption. However, more clinical studies are needed to determine what is the optimal amount required for long-term weight management.

Is Keto Good for Gut Health?

Studies on the ketogenic diet and gut health provide conflicting results. On one hand, this eating pattern may reduce inflammation and help treat some digestive disorders. On the other hand, it may harm your gut microbiome and lead to digestive issues like constipation. If you decide to follow a ketogenic diet, be sure to eat a variety of gut-friendly foods to promote digestive health.

What is a Leaky Gut?

Leaky gut is a condition in which the lining of the intestines becomes inflamed, damaged, or irritated, allowing microbial toxins and undigested food particles to flood into the bloodstream. This leaking of matter from the gut into the bloodstream can cause infections and widespread inflammation, and it may even increase the risk of certain autoimmune disorders. Plus, it can have implications for nutrition. Symptoms often include bloating, nausea, and cramping, but because the gut impacts our entire body, it can also cause headaches, rashes, fatigue, and joint pain.

Why is Gut Health Important?

The gut breaks down the foods you eat and absorbs nutrients that support your body’s functions. The importance of the gut to our overall health is a topic of increasing research in the medical community. Research is showing us that our gut microbiome can affect every organ in our body. It is understood that there are links between gut health and:

- the immune system

- mental health

- autoimmune diseases

- endocrine disorders – such as type 2 diabetes

- gastrointestinal disorders – such as irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease

- cardiovascular disease

- cancer

- sleep

- digestion.

A higher level of diversity in gut bacteria is an important indicator of the health of your microbiome. While research is ongoing, it appears that your gut health plays an important role in your overall health.

Signs of Poor Gut Health

Many factors affect your gut health, like your family and genetic history and how your body is built. There are also factors you can control, like stress and diet. When your gut functions properly, there’s a good balance of bacteria helping your body process and get energy from the foods you eat, clear toxins, fight against disease, and boost your mood. You’re also free of symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, loose stools, gas, bloating, and abdominal pain.

Here are 10 warning signs you may have an unhealthy gut.

1. You have an upset stomach. Frequent discomfort, gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn could be signs that your gut is having a hard time processing food and eliminating waste.

2. You feel tired more often than not. People with chronic fatigue may have imbalances in the gut. One study found that almost half of people with fatigue also had IBS.

3. You have trouble sleeping in general. An unhealthy gut can cause insomnia or poor sleep, which leads to fatigue. The majority of your body’s serotonin, which affects mood and sleep, is produced in the gut. So, when there’s bacteria or inflammation in the gut, your sleep may be affected as well.

4. You are intolerant to some foods. Food intolerances may be caused by poor quality of bacteria in the gut. You may have a food intolerance if you struggle to digest certain foods. This can cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.

5. You have extreme food cravings, especially sugar. Eating too much sugar can cause too much “bad” bacteria in the gut. High amounts of sugar, especially high-fructose corn syrup, are linked to inflammation in the body and put you at risk for other diseases.

6. You have unintentional weight gain or loss. When your gut is imbalanced, your body may struggle to absorb nutrients, store fat, and regulate blood sugar. Weight loss or gain may be caused by bacteria overgrowth or lack of nutrients.

7. You have skin irritations. Some skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis may be related to gut issues.

8. You get migraines. There may be a link between headaches and gut health, especially if you experience nausea or vomiting with migraines. Studies suggest that people with frequent headaches are more likely to have gastrointestinal disorders too.

9. You have autoimmune problems. Some “bad” gut bacteria may trigger autoimmune conditions like thyroid issues, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes.

10. You have frequent mood changes. Gut problems and inflammation in the nervous system can lead to anxiety and depression.

15 Foods for Good Gut Health

Food should be varied, colorful, and high in fiber however, remember that portion sizes should always be in the right proportions for your energy expenditure and should be eaten at regular intervals throughout the day ideally three meals a day. So here’s our guide to the best foods for gut health. In no particular order, here are some tasty and unusual foods that are also good for your insides.

1. Yogurt

Live yogurt is an excellent source of so-called friendly bacteria, also known as probiotics. Look out for sugar-free, full-fat versions, and add your own fruit for a tasty breakfast. Yogurt drinks can contain high numbers of bacteria that are good for the gut, far more than you would find in a normal yogurt.  Do be mindful though as they can have a high sugar content. 

2. Kefir

This probiotic yogurt drink is made by fermenting milk and is packed with good bacteria (which can help to reduce a leaky gut). It originated in the mountainous region between Asia and Europe, as well as Russia and Central Asia. It also makes a great addition to smoothies and soups, or you can use it as a base for salad dressing (add lemon juice and seasoning).

3. Miso

Miso is made from fermented soya beans, plus barley or rice, and contains a range of goodies such as helpful bacteria and enzymes. A savory paste used in dips, dressings, and soup, it can also be used as a marinade for salmon or tofu. It’s a staple of Japanese cooking and suitable if you’re avoiding dairy. There is uncertainty within the research that the bacteria effectively reach the gut, nevertheless, in regions where Miso is a staple fermented food source, the population has better gut health and less bowel disease. 

4. Sauerkraut

This is finely chopped cabbage that has been fermented. This great source of probiotics, fiber, and vitamins is best known as a German dish, but versions exist in Eastern and Central Europe. Choose a product that has not been pickled in vinegar, as that doesn’t have the same benefits. It’s delicious served with sausages, and can be cheap and easy to make at home. 

5. Kimchi

This Korean specialty of fermented vegetables brings the benefits of probiotic bacteria along with vitamins and fiber. Use it as a lively side dish with meat, salad, or eggs. It’s so popular that Koreans say “kimchi” in the same way that we say “cheese” when they have their photos taken.

6. Sourdough

This is very fashionable at the moment, but there’s a good reason for that. Made by fermenting the dough, it’s more digestible than regular bread and its energy releases slowly. It makes fantastic toast too.

7. Almonds

These have good probiotic properties, which means they are a treat for your gut bacteria – high in fibre, and full of fatty acids and polyphenols. A handful of almonds makes an excellent snack when you’re feeling peckish.

8. Olive oil

Gut bacteria and gut microbes like a diet of fatty acids and polyphenols. These are found in olive oil. Studies have shown that it helps reduce gut inflammation. Use it for salad dressing or drizzle it over cooked vegetables. Some studies have also found olive oil to be beneficial in easing indigestion problems and can also benefit your pancreas by lowering its requirement to produce digestive enzymes. 

9. Kombucha

We all know water is crucial for gut health, but what else can you drink? Kombucha is a fermented tea drink thought to have originated in Manchuria that is full of probiotic good bacteria. It has a sharp, vinegary taste and can be used as a refreshing drink on its own or mixed with fruit and spices. It also makes the base for great cocktails.

10. Peas

Gut bacteria need fiber to flourish, so the more fruit and vegetables you consume the better. Peas are full of soluble and insoluble fiber to help keep your system in balance. Add peas to stir-fries, soups, or salads.

11. Brussels sprouts

Much more than a festive staple, they contain the kinds of fiber that good bacteria like and sulfur compounds that help combat unhealthy bacteria such as H pylori. Stir-fry with garlic and bacon for a delicious side dish.

12. Bananas

One of nature’s handiest and healthiest snacks, bananas are full of the kind of fiber that good bacteria enjoy. They also contain healthy minerals.

13. Roquefort cheese

Live, runny, smelly French cheese* will give your gut bacteria a boost – but eat it in moderation. Add it to salads or spread it on your sourdough. Whilst we cannot be ensured that all of the bacteria survive digestion to be beneficial it is believed that other properties help preserve some bacteria during digestion.    

14. Garlic 

Garlic, with its antibacterial and antifungal properties, can help keep “bad” gut bacteria under control and help balance yeast in the gut. Use it as a flavoring for savory dishes. The properties within garlic act as a fuel source to allow the bacteria to do their job better which overall improves gut function and can help heal your gut. 

15. Ginger

Fresh ginger can help in the production of stomach acid and it stimulates the digestive system to keep food moving through the gut. Add freshly grated ginger to soups, stews, smoothies, or stir-fries. Pour boiling water on grated ginger to make refreshing ginger tea.

Top 10 Worst Foods for Gut Health

Making wise dietary choices is essential for preserving gut health. Because of this, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten foods you should avoid if you want to significantly improve your gastrointestinal health.

1. Processed foods

Processed foods are high in additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats, which can harm your gut microbiome.

2. Refined sugar

Refined sugar can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut, leading to inflammation and digestive issues.

3. Gluten

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye and can cause inflammation in the gut for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

4. Dairy products

For many people, dairy products can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

5. Fried foods

Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats that can harm your gut microbiome and contribute to inflammation.

6. Red meat

Frequent consumption of red meat can contribute to inflammation and an increased risk of colon cancer.

7. Artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut and contribute to digestive issues.

8. Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can harm your gut microbiome, leading to digestive issues and decreased immunity.

9. Caffeine

While moderate caffeine consumption is generally safe, excessive consumption can cause digestive issues such as acid reflux and heartburn.

10. High-fructose corn syrup

High-fructose corn syrup is a highly processed sugar that can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut and contribute to inflammation.

The Best Vitamins and Supplements for Gut Health

Research and expert advice suggests the following vitamins and supplements could potentially bolster gut health. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for recommended dose information and a list of potential drug interactions before making a purchase or consuming any supplement.

1. Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can change the composition of microflora in the gut. A healthy gut is considered to have a balanced amount [and variety] of probiotics. They are found naturally in fermented food sources, such as Greek yogurt, kombucha, and kimchi. They can also be consumed in supplement forms, such as powders, capsules, and tablets.

2. Prebiotics

Prebiotics are fibers that the body can’t digest but instead use as fuel for probiotic bacteria to support their growth in the gut. Prebiotics are typically higher in fiber and can be found in most fruits and vegetables. Eat as much prebiotics through fruits and vegetables as possible to optimize one’s amount of probiotics. Beyond food sources, prebiotics also come in supplement form and can be combined with probiotics.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a vinegar made from the fermented juice of apples. It contains pectin, which is considered a prebiotic. Additionally, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar “with the mother” may contain probiotic bacteria that are beneficial for the gut microbiome. However, no significant clinical research in humans directly connects ACV with potential benefits for gut health.

4. Psyllium Husk

It’s generally best to consume fiber from food sources. However, if a person doesn’t meet their recommended fiber intake each day, a fiber supplement like psyllium husk can help. Psyllium husk creates a gel-like mass when it comes into contact with water, which can help move waste through the intestines and potentially alleviate constipation. Psyllium husk also helps bulk up stool, which can provide relief from diarrhea.

5. Vitamin D

One 2020 research review indicates that vitamin D may have anti-inflammatory properties in the digestive tract and help regulate balance in the gastrointestinal wall. However, some of the studies in the review relied on animals instead of human participants, so further research is needed to confirm this connection.

6. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin, which means the body excretes excess amounts rather than storing them, and it must be consumed daily via food or supplements. Vitamin C can potentially increase the body’s production of short-chain fatty acids that can act as mediators in the gut-brain connection and provide protection for the intestinal barrier. Vitamin C is readily available in citrus fruits like oranges and in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, as well as in supplement form.

7. Butyrate

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid that can potentially benefit gut health by feeding and bolstering the cells lining the colon. Butyrate is produced naturally when gut bacteria break down fiber, but it’s also available in supplement form. With that said clinical studies on butyrate supplementation in humans yield mixed results.

8. Glutamine

Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid that may have beneficial effects on the gut. A 2021 research review in Food Science and Human Wellness suggests glutamine might support the gut microbiome, modulate inflammatory responses, and promote the integrity of the gut mucosal wall. Additionally, a 2019 clinical trial in the journal Gut exploring glutamine supplementation in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found that glutamine helped improve IBS symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating more than the placebo. However, larger randomized trials are needed to confirm these effects.

9. Ginger

Ginger is a root that may possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A 2020 study in Frontiers in Microbiology suggests short-term intake of ginger juice may have a positive impact on gut microbiota. In the study, 123 healthy men and women drank either fresh ginger juice or a sodium chloride placebo for two week-long periods. At the end of the study, researchers found those in the ginger group had greater bacterial diversity in their gut microbiomes. With that said, further research and long-term studies are needed to explore ginger’s potential as a gut health supplement.

10. Curcumin

Curcumin, a polyphenol most commonly found in the spice turmeric, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Research in the journal Nutrients also suggests that curcumin may promote the health of beneficial gut bacteria strains, but other studies yield mixed results in humans, so further research is needed.

How to Restore Gut Health After Antibiotics

Fortunately, there are ways you can restore your gut health after taking antibiotics. Here are some tips for restoring balance in your GI tract:

1. Eat probiotic foods.

Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi contain beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in your gut. Eating these types of foods regularly can also help to prevent any future digestive problems.

2. Take probiotic supplements.

Probiotic supplements are a great way to supplement your diet with beneficial bacteria. Look for a product that contains a variety of different probiotic strains to get the most benefit.

3. Eat prebiotic foods.

Prebiotics are certain types of fiber that help the “good” bacteria in your gut flourish and fight off harmful bacteria. Good sources of prebiotics include asparagus, onions, garlic, bananas, and oats.

4. Avoid processed foods.

Eating a diet that is high in processed and sugary foods can further deplete the beneficial bacteria in your gut, so it's best to avoid them as much as possible.

5. Get plenty of rest and exercise.

Getting enough sleep and exercising regularly can also help to restore balance in your gut. Exercise helps to reduce inflammation and increases the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut while getting enough rest can help reduce stress levels which can further impair digestive health.

How to Improve Gut Health

Scientists have discovered that the trillions of bacteria in our gastrointestinal tract don’t just process the food we eat. These bacteria help our body maintain balance and stay healthy. But what does it mean to have ‘good gut health’, what does it feel like and what can we do to improve the health of our gut? Read on to learn more.

1. Reduce stress levels – stress causes the digestive process to slow or be disrupted. This can lead to maldigestion of foods, prompting undesirable bacteria overgrowth.

2. Limit alcohol intake – alcohol changes the ratio between beneficial bacteria (such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium) and pathogenic bacteria (such as Bacillus spp).

3. Stay physically active – moderate exercise boosts the level of gut microbes, producing a substance called butyrate. This has many health benefits, from producing satiety hormones that curb hunger to promoting gut motility.

4. Eat insoluble AND soluble fiber to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. These fibers act in different ways, the insoluble variety found in wholewheat, wheat bran, etc. provides bulk to your stools, allowing them to pass more easily, whilst your gut bacteria ferment soluble fibers found in oats, fruit, and vegetables. Both types of fiber promote a healthy gut.

5. Reduce sugar intake – a diet high in processed sugar and refined foods may increase inflammation, which may decrease the amount of beneficial gut bacteria.

6. Eat a rainbow of fruit and vegetables – colorful fruit and vegetables provide polyphenols, and plant chemicals that promote gut health. Studies suggest that by eating 30 different plant foods each week you may help increase the diversity of the microbes in your gut. This isn’t as difficult as it might sound because fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs, and spices all count.

7. Include fermented foods – when fermented foods are included regularly in your diet they may bestow benefits such as improving your digestion.

How Exercise Improve Gut Health

Exercise is one of the most powerful ways you can boost your gut microbiome. Exercise improves your gut health because it:

1. Improves gut motility (movement)

Your digestive tract has its rhythm that keeps things moving. When it’s too fast, you might be running to the bathroom. Too slow, and you’ve got bloating, gas, pain, and nausea. Neither option is going to help you have your best day. Regular exercise allows your gut to find its perfect pace. Your digestive tract is a muscle, and moving your body is good for all your muscles, your gut included. When we’re physically inactive, the muscles in our gut also become less active, too. Over time, they lose their natural coordination and strength.

2. Boosts circulation

During exercise, your heart pumps harder and faster to deliver extra blood and oxygen to your muscles. Some of that extra goodness also goes directly to your gut. Exercise improves circulation throughout your body, including to your gut and other organs. When your digestive tract is better perfused (or has a good flow), it becomes stronger, healthier, and better able to maintain the right balance of healthy bacteria.

3. Tones your digestive muscles

Many people think they’re not constipated because they have regular or frequent bowel movements. But you might be going frequently because your colon isn’t emptying. You could be going several times to get one bowel movement out. Exercise makes your gut’s contractions known as peristalsis more powerful and more effective. Higher quality peristalsis means your gut can empty more effectively. It’s a key part of your digestive health because it moves the waste out of your body before it can disrupt your microbiome.”

4. Keeps your metabolism healthy

Your metabolism is your body’s process of turning calories into energy. Physical activity helps you maintain or speed up this process, which helps with digestion and better balance in your gut. If your metabolism slows down, your body has to select which functions are more important. “Your body sees digestion as a lower priority than vital organs like your heart, lungs, and brain. It takes some energy away from your gut and can lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria, bacterial translocation (passage of bacteria from the GI tract to other tissues or organs), and complications from slower motility (such as megacolon, hemorrhoids, and diverticulitis).”

5. Sets you up for sleep

Getting enough quality sleep is great for your gut. If you find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, getting some exercise could be the natural remedy you need. Regular exercise can lead to better sleep overall and can improve some sleep disorders. When you sleep, your body, including the gut, repairs itself, breaks down waste, and builds up your immune system.

Signs to See a Gut Health Specialist

Two categories of symptoms should prompt you to seek professional help: those that are important due to their link to gut health and those that are alarm signs indicating a potentially serious issue in the gut.

These symptoms are more severe and could indicate serious underlying conditions that need immediate medical attention.

1. Persistent or Severe Abdominal Pain: Continuous or intense abdominal pain that doesn’t improve, potentially indicating serious conditions like appendicitis, pancreatitis, or perforation.

2. Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant and unintentional weight loss that could indicate conditions like cancer, severe infections, or chronic diseases.

3. Blood in Stool: Blood in the stool could be a sign of colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or inflammatory bowel disease.

4. Persistent Heartburn or Acid Reflux: Frequent heartburn or acid reflux that may indicate GERD, Barrett’s esophagus, or esophageal cancer.

5. Difficulty Swallowing: Pain or difficulty swallowing can be a sign of esophageal cancer or strictures.

6. Severe Bloating or Distention: Extreme and persistent bloating might indicate bowel obstruction, tumors, or severe infections.

7. Fatigue or Anemia: Unexplained anemia or fatigue could be a sign of internal bleeding, malabsorption syndromes, or cancers.

8. Vomiting: Persistent and severe vomiting, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, which can indicate blockages, severe infections, or poisoning.

9. Changes in Stool Color or Consistency: Black, tarry stools or very pale stools may indicate internal bleeding or liver/pancreatic issues.

How to Find a Gut Health Specialist Near Me

Here are the 7 top tips for finding a good gut health specialist:

1. A good Gut Health Specialist has experience with functional testing

Specifically, you want to look for a practitioner who has experience with functional stool testing, SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) testing, and Organic Acid Testing (OAT) as a baseline. These tests provide a clinical insight into the health of your microbiome and digestive function. The more experience a practitioner has with these functional tests the more they can read between the lines and understand the nuances of functional testing about your case. Therefore, ask the practitioner or clinic you are considering if they have experience with these functional tests.

2. A good Gut Health Specialist should have experience with chronic gut health conditions and/or have an experienced mentor

You want to seek out a practitioner who has experience working with chronic gut health conditions. The more years of experience a practitioner has, the more they understand the bio-individuality that comes with treating the gut. It allows the practitioner to become well-versed in how to use an array of tools alongside time to learn from clinical experience. Alternatively, if a practitioner does not have years upon years of experience, ensure they have a reputable mentor that they work closely with. 

3. A good Gut Health Specialist can be a Clinical Nutritionist, Naturopath, or even a Dietician

A Gut Health Specialist should not be pigeonholed to a gastroenterologist. In saying this, a good Gut Health Specialist would know when to refer to a gastroenterologist for further investigations and not hold all the cards thinking they have all the answers. Essentially, whether you are considering a GP, Integrative Doctor, Naturopath, Nutritionist, or Dietician you want to ensure they meet the requirements above and below and have an accredited Bachelor's Degree. Please also ensure your practitioner is also part of an Association recognized by the TGA. No cereal box qualifications, please.

4. A good Gut Health Specialist knows your case history is more important than any functional test

Functional testing is a fabulous modern-day tool and a Gut Health Specialist with experience in this area is highly recommended. However, nothing is more important than individualized case history and gathering a detailed background of your client's health. This should also involve a detailed dietary recall and history of your diet. Realistically a practitioner will need a minimum of 60min – 90min for an initial to gather enough information and then a minimum of 30 minutes for a follow-up appointment. 

5. A good Gut Health Specialist listens

A good Gut Health Specialist listens wholeheartedly to their client. They have the aforementioned knowledge, but they also take that knowledge and use it appropriately through listening and communicating in a way with clients so they feel respected and heard. Look at Google Reviews and ask around. 

6. A good Gut Health Specialist pivots and learns with you

A good Gut Health Specialist should talk openly about bumps in the road of treatment plans, the ups and downs, and the need to pivot treatment when needed. They should be open about what they don’t know and not give you shady answers that seem hollow. They should be open to working with a team of other practitioners and know when to let go if a case is outside their scope. Again, realistically the best way to know if a practitioner has these attributes is through a referral or looking at reviews. You can also look at any social media or other educational tools a clinic or practitioner may share. 

7. A good Gut Health Specialist educates

A good Gut Health Practitioner will ensure that one of their major purposes throughout the consultation and treatment process is to educate you on understanding your own health needs and requirements for long-term success. Look for practitioners and clinics that speak of this on their services page and also check out reviews and what other clients have to say. You will also find that good Gut Health Specialists will have endless free resources through websites, social media, and podcasts where they can channel their passion for education.

Sources:

BBC Good Food

Jessica Cox

Circle Health Group

Harvard Health

Vital Force

Endocrine Society

LLU Health

Medical News Today

ZOE

Northeast Digestive

Discover Magazine

NIH

LIVI

BBC Good Food

Healthline

Better Health

Benenden

Gastro Con SA

Forbes Health

Frederick Health

Cleveland Clinic

TIME

GIC