The gut and brain share a profound and intricate connection that significantly influences our overall health. Disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI), previously known as functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs), are conditions that highlight the complexity of this relationship. These disorders manifest as chronic or recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms without an identifiable structural or biochemical cause. As a naturopathic doctor, understanding and addressing DGBI through a holistic lens can provide significant relief and improve the quality of life for many patients.
What Are Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction?
DGBI result from disturbances in the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain. Essentially there is a mis-wiring and mis-firing between the gut and the brain, resulting in motility issues, visceral hypersensitivity, altered mucosal and immune function, imbalances in gut microbiota, and central nervous system processing abnormalities.
Some common DGBI include:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or both.
- Functional Dyspepsia: Upper abdominal discomfort or pain, often related to eating.
- Functional Constipation: Difficulty in passing stools or infrequent bowel movements.
- Functional Diarrhea: Chronic, watery, and loose stools without an identifiable cause.
- Functional Abdominal Pain Syndrome: Chronic abdominal pain without a clear structural cause.
The Naturopathic Approach to DGBI
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are uniquely positioned to help patients with DGBI through a holistic and individualized approach that addresses the root causes of these disorders. Here are some key strategies NDs use to manage DGBI:
1. Comprehensive Assessment: NDs conduct thorough assessments, including detailed medical histories, dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and stress levels. This comprehensive evaluation helps identify potential triggers and contributing factors for DGBI.
2. Dietary Modifications: Food sensitivities, intolerances, and poor dietary habits can exacerbate DGBI symptoms. NDs may recommend dietary changes, such as:
- Personalized meal timing and composition
- Healthy patterns of eating vs. structured diets
- Elimination Diets: Removing common trigger foods, then re-introducing to determine personal tolerance.
- 3-Phase Low FODMAP Diet: Reducing fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols to alleviate symptoms, then reintroducing to identify personal triggers and expand diet.
- Modified Low FODMAP Diet
- Incorporating more nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory, gut supportive foods to improve gut health and overall health.
3. Gut Microbiota Balance: An imbalance in gut microbiota, known as dysbiosis, is a common factor in DGBI. NDs may use the following to restore a healthy gut flora balance and promote optimal digestive function:
- Probiotics,
- Fermented foods
- Prebiotics
- Low FODMAP diet or Mediterranean Diet
- Antibiotics
- Antimicrobials herbs
4. Stress Management: Acute and chronic stress can significantly impact gut-brain axis and exacerbate DGBI symptoms. An ND will help you find stress-reduction techniques and gut-brain axis support that suit your lifestyle and promote stress resilience and recovery. Nervous system support is an essential component in the management of DGBIs.
5. Herbal and Nutritional Supplements: NDs use professional grade herbs and nutrients to support gut health and mental health, improve symptom management and treat underlying imbalances that may be contributing to DGBI symptoms, such as HPA axis (cortisol) dysregulation and dysbiosis.
6. Lifestyle Modifications: NDs work with patients to create sustainable lifestyle changes that support digestive function, healing and overall well-being.
7. Mind-Body Therapies: Since DGBI involves the gut-brain axis, mind-body therapies can be particularly effective. Techniques such as biofeedback, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and hypnotherapy can help modify the brain’s response to gut stimuli and reduce symptoms. NDs can help patients find the tools that work best for them.
Disorders of gut-brain interaction can significantly impact daily life, but a naturopathic approach offers hope through holistic, personalized care. By addressing the root causes and considering the whole person, naturopathic doctors can provide effective relief and help patients reclaim their gut health and overall well-being.
If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic or recurrent GI symptoms, consider consulting with Dr. Brown to discover her multi-faceted approach to symptom management and gut healing.
