Digestion and Naturopathic Medicine

Food Allergy and Food Sensitivity Testing

Food allergies and sensitivities can cause digestive problems as well as systemic symptoms like fatigue, acne, headaches, psoriasis, and aches and pains. Dr. Katie uses blood testing to evaluate IgG sensitivities and IgE food allergies. IgE allergies are commonly tested by allergists and can cause symptoms such as facial swelling, airway obstruction, and hives. IgG food sensitivities on the other hand, produce a delayed reaction. Symptoms may not occur for up to 72 hours after ingesting a sensitivity. This delay makes it very difficult to pinpoint a specific food sensitivity, which is why Dr. Katie offers food sensitivity testing that can be completed at home with a simple finger prick test. Food sensitivity testing can also be used to evaluate leaky gut syndrome. Dr. Katie provides a complete diet plan and natural treatments for a successful reintroduction phase.

Stool Analysis Testing

Many of our digestive issues stem from dysbiotic intestinal flora. We all have essential bacteria in our gut that keeps us healthy, prevents illness, aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, and maintains a healthy gastrointestinal tract. The insults of our diet, medications, environmental toxins, and food sensitivities can significantly impact the health of our intestinal tract, leading to a variety of symptoms and conditions. Stool analysis testing gives the clues Dr. Katie needs to uncover the cause of your digestive problems. Dr. Katie often discovers an imbalance of bacteria in the gut or an overgrowth of yeast (oftentimes candida). Stool analysis testing can also evaluate your ability to digest your food and absorb the nutrients effectively.

Breath Testing

Breath tests are used to diagnose SIBO, fructose intolerance, and lactose intolerance. Breath testing can be completed in the comfort of your own home.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition of the intestine where the immune system reacts to the gluten proteins found in food. Gluten is a protein found naturally in wheat, but is also used in numerous other products. Celiac disease can result in significant damage to your intestinal tract if a proper gluten-free diet is not strictly followed. Studies have shown higher rates of celiac disease in those with autism and infertility. Celiac disease also causes delayed growth in children. Improvement with the removal of gluten and blood testing can help with the diagnosis of celiac disease. However, a small intestinal biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing. Dr. Katie can help diagnose celiac disease, implement dietary changes, and improve your digestion.

Digestion and Gastrointestinal Issues Effectively Teated by Naturopathic Medicine

  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Gas and bloating
  • Celiac disease
  • Food allergies
  • Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) – Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease – GERD (heartburn, indigestion, reflux)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Candida overgrowth or dysbiosis
  • SIBO – small intestinal bowel overgrowth