Our digestive tract is the absolute foundation for vibrant wellbeing. As a Nutritional Therapist, I prioritise gastrointestinal health and work to support its optimal function.
Function of the Digestive Tract
The majority of food we eat is too large to be absorbed by our cells and therfore must be broken down. This process is called digestion and absorption. In order for this to happen efficiently
- your stomach should be producing correct amounts of stomach acid
- your pancreas should be producing sufficient digestive enzymes
- the bacteria and microbes in your small and large intestine should be in careful balance
- your gut lining should be healthy and well
- your gallbladder should be producing bile
A careful balance of gut bacteria also promotes metabolic and hormone balance as well as inhibiting the growth of pathogenic (disease forming) bacteria, yeasts and parasites. Alternations in gut bacteria may lead to changes in digestive function and health.
As a Nutritional Therapist, I will be looking to support optimal gut function using foods, food-based supplements and biological agents (probiotics).
Common digestive health complaints
- Acid reflux, acid stomach, heartburn or indigestion
- Constipation and/or diarrhoea
- Bloating and gas
- Candida
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Bad breath
- Nausea
Liver Function
A healthy digestive system supports liver function. Our liver is responsible for metabolising proteins, carbohydrates and fats; and detoxifing hormones, toxins and drugs. The liver makes bile which is necessary for fat and fat-soluble vitamin absorption. Bile and pancreatic enzymes may also help destroy unwanted micro-organisms in the digestive tract.
As a Nutritional Therapist, I will be looking at supporting your liver function to encourage good detoxification and elimination, and metabolic and hormonal balance.