The functional approach to IBS, SIBO and food sensitivities

Ibs -what is it

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a complex gut condition that is very common- but unfortunately, many do not receive much help for their symptoms in conventional medicine. Recurring bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation or a combination of both can be debilitating. When we address the root causes with functional medicine testing and nutrition we get long-lasting results and relief!

Here is how Aline approaches IBS:

• Every IBS patient is unique and received a completely tailored approach. After the initial consult, I will give you personalised strategies to get you started feeling better sooner.

• Advanced functional lab testing to identify root causes: This can be SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), parasites and other pathogens, gut inflammation, leaky gut, comprehensive microbiome testing and also considering hormonal imbalances or other root causes.

• Once testing results are in, we sit together and discuss your unique and personalised protocol, which might include diet changes, specifically tailored pre-and probiotics, herbal or nutritional supplementation, nervous system regulation and more.

• Once root causes have been addressed, we move on to a maintenance

SIBO- Small Intestinal Bacterial OVergrowth

Bloated, looking like 5 months pregnant, food sensitivities and going between either constipation or lose bowel movements? Sounds a lot like IBS, and often SIBO is part of the underlying issue/root cause of IBS. SIBO is when bacteria or archaea overgrow in the small intestine, leading to increase gas production which then cause symptoms. This condition is well researched by Dr. Mark Pimentel (Gastroenterologist) but either totally neglected in the conventional system or treated with rounds of antibiotics, which causes more damage to the gut. This leaves many struggling with ongoing symptoms and long-term health effects. Many practitioners are not trained or unfamiliar with testing, interpretation and ways to treat SIBO.

Here is how Aline approaches SIBO, or symptoms of bloating and food sensitivities:

• Advanced functional lab testing to identify which bacteria/archaea are present, and at what level. This is a double breath test or triple substrate breath test to avoid false positives and negatives as well as rule our fructose or lactose malabsorption issues.

• A personalised strategy to target test results with herbal, nutraceutical and dietary interventions, as well as giving you education on timeline of healing, and digging deeper for causes of SIBO.

• Relapse rates are quite high for SIBO, so you will get a relapse-prevention strategy to achieve long-lasting resolution and set realistic expectations.

• Repairing and restoring function to the gastrointestinal tract, to achieve overall health and prevent relapse with pre- and probiotics as well as herbal compounds.

Food Sensitivities: Lactose, Fructose, Gluten, and more

Do you find yourself reacting to all kinds of foods? Do you get bloated eating onion, or garlic? Or can you not tolerate beans, lentils or chickpeas? How about cauliflower, fermented foods or fruit?

Maybe you have tried cutting out gluten or dairy, but you still get bloated or have changing bowel movements.

OR you have skin conditions such as eczema and need a better idea on how food causes reactions on your skin.

Figuring out on your own if you do react to certain foods and which ones, is frustrating and confusing. You need testing, clarity and a comprehensive workup so nothing is missed.

Here is how Aline approaches food sensitivities, or when you come in with symptoms but unsure what is causing them:

• Comprehensive history intake to start the investigation. Excluding auto-immunity, Coeliac Disease, and allergies. Getting you started with transit time testing, and a stool diary.

• Advanced functional lab testing to uncover hidden causes: commonly SIBO testing comes back positive, and once SIBO is addressed you can re-introduce foods without reactions and enjoy your food again. Other testing such as leaky gut available as well.

• Herbal, nutritional and lifestyle approach to your root causes.