Gut Health Nutritionist in San Antonio

Symptoms of Poor Gut Health (That You Can Overcome!)

• Fatigue or Loss of Energy

Fatigue or loss of energy can be a symptom of various issues, including gut-related problems. Your gut microbiome exists in a delicate balance, and if that balance is off, you’ll experience inflammation and poor nutrient absorption. These cascading consequences can lead to feelings of tiredness and reduced energy levels. 

The gut plays a crucial role in absorbing nutrients from the food we eat, and disruptions in this process can impact overall energy levels. Feel tired all the time? We help people in San Antonio get to the bottom of their gut issues.

• Belly Fat or Stubborn Weight Gain

Belly fat or stubborn weight gain can sometimes be linked to gut health. An unhealthy gut microbiome, characterized by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and an imbalance of beneficial bacteria, might contribute to weight gain, especially around the abdominal area. This is because an imbalanced microbiome can affect metabolism, inflammation, and the way the body processes food.

• Gas or Bloating

Gas and bloating are common gut symptoms that can be caused by various factors. These might include swallowing air while eating, consuming gas-producing foods, imbalances in gut bacteria, and slow digestion. Excessive gas and bloating can be uncomfortable and indicate issues with the way your digestive system is functioning.

• Diarrhea or Constipation

Diarrhea and constipation are opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to bowel movements. Diarrhea involves loose, watery stools and can be caused by infections, food intolerances, or other gastrointestinal issues. Constipation, on the other hand, refers to infrequent or difficult bowel movements, often accompanied by hard stools. Both diarrhea and constipation can be linked to imbalances in gut bacteria, poor diet, and other gut-related factors.

• Reflux

Gut health plays a significant role in the development and management of reflux by influencing the function of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscular valve that separates the stomach from the esophagus. An imbalanced gut microbiome can contribute to inflammation and compromise the integrity of the LES, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, triggering reflux symptoms. Learn how our San Antonio gut health clinic can help you get rid of this troubling symptom.

• High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar levels can be influenced by gut health, particularly in relation to insulin sensitivity. Insulin resistance, which can result from chronic inflammation and poor diet choices, is linked to imbalances in gut bacteria and can contribute to elevated blood glucose levels. An unhealthy gut microbiome might impair the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar properly.

Other Surprising Gut-Related Symptoms

• Reflux
• Allergies
• Brain Fog
• Depression or Anxiety
• Eczema or Psoriasis
• Generally Red/Blotchy Skin
• Migraine/Chronic Headaches
• Fibromyalgia
• And More  

Common Gut Health Disorders Treated at Our San Antonio Gut Health Clinic

Nutrition-based gut health doesn’t just improve general symptoms, it can target and reverse common conditions and disorders. At Sarah Treat Nutrition in San Antonio, we take a holistic and personalized approach to address various gut conditions. By targeting the underlying causes of gut disease, we can help you achieve true healing.

• Crohn’s Disease

Functional medicine nutrition for Crohn’s Disease involves identifying trigger foods and nutrients that can exacerbate inflammation and gastrointestinal symptoms. A personalized elimination diet may be implemented to remove potential irritants and allergens while ensuring proper nutrient intake. Nutritional supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and certain vitamins, can be recommended to support inflammation reduction and gut healing. Collaborative care between the functional medicine practitioner, gastroenterologist, and registered dietitian is essential to manage symptoms, maintain nutrient balance, and optimize overall health.

• Leaky Gut

Functional medicine nutrition addresses leaky gut by focusing on restoring gut barrier integrity and balancing the gut microbiome. A gut-healing diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods, and high in fiber can promote beneficial bacterial growth and improve gut lining integrity. Specific nutrients like glutamine, zinc, and vitamins A and D are often emphasized to support gut lining repair. Probiotic and prebiotic foods or supplements may be recommended to enhance microbial diversity and strengthen the gut barrier, ultimately reducing the permeability that characterizes leaky gut.

• Autoimmune Disorders

Functional medicine nutrition recognizes the connection between gut health and autoimmune disorders. Emphasis is placed on an anti-inflammatory diet that eliminates potential trigger foods, such as gluten, dairy, and processed sugars. The goal is to reduce systemic inflammation and support the immune system. Specific nutrients like antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D are often included to modulate immune responses and manage symptoms. The gut microbiome’s role in immune function is addressed through dietary and lifestyle interventions aimed at promoting a diverse and balanced microbial community.

• Arthritis

Functional medicine nutrition for arthritis focuses on an anti-inflammatory diet that includes foods rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help manage systemic inflammation that can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Gluten and dairy elimination might be recommended for some individuals, as they can potentially contribute to inflammation in susceptible individuals. A well-balanced intake of nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and magnesium supports joint health and overall immune function, which is important in managing autoimmune-related arthritis.

• Celiac Disease

Functional medicine nutrition for celiac disease centers around strict gluten avoidance, as gluten ingestion triggers an immune response and damages the small intestine lining. A diet based on naturally gluten-free whole foods is emphasized to ensure proper nutrient intake while avoiding gluten-containing grains. Nutrient deficiencies common in celiac disease, such as iron, B vitamins, and calcium, are addressed through targeted supplementation and dietary adjustments. Healing the gut and managing inflammation are key aspects of the functional medicine approach to support those with celiac disease.