GI Health

The gastrointestinal tract is truly the second brain of our bodies. Nearly all nutrition, vitamins, bioidentical hormones and medications must go through this system. If there is inflammation, disease, or irritation then individuals could be compromised. Gut dysfunction can lead to poor absorption of nutrition and more. You may have common symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and reflux but many patients have poor digestion without symptoms.

Did you know that many of the neurotransmitters that our brains use are made in the gastrointestinal tract? Approximately 70% of all serotonin is made in the gastrointestinal system. This is the amino acid that virtually all anti-depressant technology is based upon. If you have problems with your gut, it could affect your brain and your mood.

The majority of our immune system also lies within our gut. A healthy GI system allows us to maintain the best defense against stress and illness.

We realize that if we address the dysfunction of the GI system, we will promote overall improved health.

We use DNA BASED tests to evaluate the presence of inflammation, immunity, bacteria, parasites, yeast and more. This test far exceeds the capability of culture based analysis by detection of organisms that cannot be cultured. Correcting any problem here facilitates the proper function and absorption of the gut. We then take the next step and recommend the right supplements to restore vitality to your GI tract. We will show you what to take for normal digestion such as prebiotics, probabilistic, and digestive enzymes.

FOOD INTOLERANCE TESTING is another way that we can evaluate and promote better GI health. As humans we are creatures of habit and often eat the same foods repetitively. This however often pushes our system to become intolerant to these foods. Inflammation can increase and the system/body can be compromised. Testing for sensitivity to food has been beneficial for reducing IBS, improving immunity, losing weight, asthma, skin disorder, headaches, and more.

Unfortunately, the American diet is nutritionally poor. Our food industry changes food so that they are processed or modified to stay on the shelf longer at the grocery store.  If you compound that with the fast food nation we have become, we are at a disadvantage even when we try to eat as healthy as possible.

By understanding the gastrointestinal tract and what the underlying problems may be, we can create a state of ultimate digestion plus maximal absorption for food, supplements, and medicines.

Here are 10 Rules to Promote Optimal Gut Function and Weight Loss

1. The 80/20 Rule

If you don’t give yourself a break once in a while you will fall off your diet program. Be diligent 80% of the time and give yourself a treat for the remaining 20%. (Example: one beer, a glass of wine, small dessert, etc) Remember to regain your focus if you have the occasional indulgence.

2. The Rule of Whites

Avoid white sugar, flour, rice and salt. These things have little nutritional benefit and actually may strip your body of vital nutrients. Strive to eat whole grain, brown rice, sea salt, and stevia type sugar substitute instead.

3. Eat Protein with every Meal

Our bodies, brain, and muscles need protein for fuel and metabolic activity. We should have a minimum of 20 grams with each meal.

4. Portion Control

The American Diet is out of control! We have grown up on huge portions and a supersize mentality. Start focusing on eating smaller portions of better foods. If you go out to eat, get in the habit of splitting a meal with a friend or taking half home.

5. YOU NEED WATER

Most of us walk around dehydrated.  Water helps us detoxify our body. Adequate water intake also reduces overeating.  Some of your hunger cravings could actually be thirst!  Divide your body weight (lbs) by 2. That is the amount of ounces you should consume daily.

6. Journal your Exercise and Calories

If you make an effort to record what your intake is on a daily basis then you are less likely to make poor choices. Documenting your exercise lets you see the calories you burn. Having a daily calorie goal gives you a target that will result in weekly weight loss. A variety of free internet sites and phone applications can assist you with documenting your foods and exercise.

7. Exercise

You will not achieve your weight loss goals or attain optimal health without exercise. Start at your comfort level and then push yourself.Strive for 40 minutes of exercise 5 days a week. A variety of exercise will prevent you from becoming burned out. Find something fun or buddy up with a friend to increase your focus and success.

8. Avoid Processed Foods

You should stay away from foods that contain MSG (monosodium glutamate), partially hydrogenated anything, genetically modified GMO, high fructose corn syrup, etc. The more lean meats, fruits and raw vegetables you can eat the better. A handful of almonds and is a great snack to satisfy cravings between meals.

9. Smoothies

A great meal (especially for breakfast) is a smoothie shake. There are tons of these on the market but beware of high carbs, fructose, and calories. Premier Health and Wellness has created a new type of ‘Slender’ Smoothie that is a detoxifying meal replacement shake. We use a hypo-allergenic pea protein (20g) for optimal metabolism. It is low calorie, low carb, and low sugar. If you replace 1-2 meals a day with a smoothie, you have reduced your calorie total tremendously heading into your evening meal!

10. Consider a Nutritionist Consultation

Most of us have had little or no training on how to eat well. Invest some time in your health and get the proper information.