Gut dysbiosis

Dysbiosis is an imbalance in the microbiology of the small and/or large intestine and the most common cause of Impaired Bowel Function (IBF). There are normally over 70 trillion bacteria living in the digestive tract, whose job it is to process and absorb food and nutrients, providing protection from 'bad' bacteria by providing a barrier along the length of the digestive tract.

Imbalance of the gut can be caused by many predisposing factors including antibiotics, acute stress, exposure to parasites or viral agents. The use of antacids and acid blockers can also cause a change in PH (acid-alkaline balance) of the gut which allows proliferation of 'bad' bacteria resulting in dysbiosis.

This condition can create digestive and eliminatory difficulties, leaky gut, and increase likelihood to food allergies.

Treatment will vary between individuals but must include restoration of the gut flora, implementation of restriction diets (such as gluten free) to relieve digestive disturbance, and most importantly, intake of natural anti-inflammatory agents. Fish oils capsules may be recommended at high dose, with vitamin/mineral support to "feed" the gut and replenish the body of lost nutrients. If severe, gentle detoxification may also be required. Many Natural Health Practitioners liken this treatment to a "weed, seed, and feed" program, meaning "weeding" out detrimental bacteria, "seeding" the gut with prolific beneficial cultures, and "feeding" these with key nutrients for greater vitality, abatement of symptoms, and return to wellness.