Gut Microbiome-how to heal naturally

Gut bacteria dysbiosis is the epicenter of conditions like IBS, GERD, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, constipation, allergies/immunodeficiencies, nutrient malabsorption and psychological imbalances.

Some of the health problems associated with gut dysbiosis, as highlighted in this NIH article, include:

  • Immune-Mediated Diseases: Conditions where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, potentially exacerbated by an imbalanced gut microbiome.

  • Metabolic Disorders: Diseases like diabetes and obesity, which have been linked to changes in gut microbiota composition.

  • Neurodegenerative Diseases: Disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, where dysbiosis may influence disease progression.

  • Psychiatric Disorders: Conditions like depression and anxiety, which studies suggest may be connected to gut microbiota imbalances.

Acupuncture

There's some fantastic research (multiple studies) that show acupuncture impacts the digestive tract by:

  • Regulating gastric motility, how food moves through the digestive tract. Acupuncture has an especially strong impact on the motility of the stomach and colon.

  • Reducing inflammation of the mucosal lining (essentially the protective barrier) of the digestive tract.

  • Regulates GI sensitivity, i.e., abdominal pain, bloating, irregular bowel movements.

  • Impacts the brain-gut axis, which is essentially how the brain communicates with the digestive tract and vice versa (endocrine + neurotransmitter regulation).

To learn more about the physiological changes that acupuncture & electroacupuncture create in the entire GI tract, you can read the World Journal of Gastroenterology article here.

 Lifestyle Suggestions

To further support and enhance your gut microbiome:

  • Incorporate Probiotic-Rich Foods: Regular consumption of fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha introduces beneficial bacteria into your digestive system, promoting a balanced gut microbiome.

  • Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is essential for maintaining the mucosal lining of the intestines and supporting the balance of good bacteria in the gut.

  • Prioritize Quality Sleep: Establishing a regular sleep schedule and ensuring sufficient rest each night can positively influence gut health, as disruptions in sleep patterns may affect the gut microbiome balance.

  • Limit Intake of Processed Foods and Added Sugars: Diets high in processed foods and sugars can negatively impact the gut microbiome, reducing beneficial bacteria and promoting the growth of harmful strains.

  • Consider Prebiotic Supplements: Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria. Supplementing with prebiotics can support the growth and activity of these microbes, enhancing gut health.

    This blog is intended for educational purposes. Always consult a licensed professional before integrating new treatments.