If you struggle with IBS-type symptoms, here are some common root causes that could be contributing to how you feel!
Why am I experiencing IBS type symptoms?
If you’re dealing with gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux, or abdominal discomfort, there’s likely an underlying issue in your gut.
At my practice, we take a comprehensive Functional Medicine approach. We use lab tests to identify the root cause of your symptoms. Instead of masking symptoms with temporary solutions, we focus on uncovering hidden stressors that contribute to your discomfort.
Now, let’s explore some common lab results for clients with IBS-type symptoms. This helps us better understand what’s going on and how to find lasting relief.
H Pylori
Helicobacter pylori is a common pathogen that causes intestinal inflammation. Many people are carriers and may be asymptomatic. However, high levels can lead to bloating, gas, digestive issues, stomach ulcers, and low stomach acid. Low stomach acid is a major contributor to acid reflux.
Dysbiosis
Dysbiosis occurs when there’s an imbalance between beneficial and harmful gut bacteria. For example, you may have high levels of opportunistic bacteria and low levels of commensal. This imbalance can lead issues like poor digestion, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea.
Candida Overgrowth
Candida albicans is a yeast naturally found in the gastrointestinal tract. When it overgrows, it can cause digestive issues and inflammation in other areas of the body. As a result, Candida overgrowth often leads to fatigue, carb and sugar cravings, a white coating on the tongue, brain fog, joint pain, bloating, poor digestion, and more.
Low Elastase
Elastase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that helps break down proteins in the small intestine. If levels are low, food isn’t properly digested, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, undigested food in stools, and digestive distress. Left untreated, low elastase can lead to nutrient malabsorption, making it hard for your body to absorb essential vitamins and minerals.
These are just a few examples of what could contribute to your symptoms. In reality, many other markers provide insights into why you’re experiencing certain issues. We check for parasites, viruses, gluten sensitivity, SIBO, and more. Symptoms often stem from a combination of multiple imbalances. Fortunately, with the right diet and supplement protocol, we can restore balance and improve your health.
If you’re feeling lost and want to dig deeper, let’s chat! In my Health Building Program, we run labs to uncover the root cause of your digestive issues.
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