How we treat constipation in Guelph

Our experienced team of naturopaths helps people with constipation in Guelph and the surrounding area.  Constipation is not a disease but rather a symptom.  Numerous factors cause chronic constipation, therefore, there’s no “one treatment fits all” approach.  Every person is unique and requires their own individual treatment. Our approach typically involves exploring the following:

Constipation help in Guelph
How we treat constipation at the Guelph Naturopathic Medical Clinic
  • Identify food sensitivities – Food sensitivities (not to be confused with food allergies) are a common cause of chronic constipation.  These food intolerances are usually caused by an immune reaction involving IgG antibodies that can be identified using a blood test (1-3).  Elimination diets can also help identify the culprits. (4)
  • Promote digestion – Sluggish digestion can cause food to sit in the digestive tract.  Certain herbs can help stimulate digestion and ensure the rapid breakdown and descent of food.
  • Bulking agents – Certain fiber-rich foods can improve stool consistency, thus promoting regularity.
  • Osmotic laxatives – Dry stools become difficult to pass. Some minerals can help pull water into the bowels helping to hydrate the stool.
  • Manage stress – Although stress is not the primary cause of constipation, it can aggravate and precipitate episodes.  Stress management may help improve constipation. (4, 5)
  • Improve gut flora –  Some “bad” bacteria produce methane gas that inhibits peristalsis and leads to constipation.(6)  Reducing these “bad” bacteria and supplementing with “good” bacteria can help resolve constipation.
  • Remove bloating – Herbs rich in essential oils can help reduce symptoms associated with constipation including bloating and gas.

Who can help relieve your constipation in Guelph area?

Matt-Gowan-naturopath-guelphDr. Matt Gowan is a naturopathic doctor with over 15 years of clinical experience.  He has a special interest in digestive conditions including bloating, IBS, colitis, heartburn, diarrhea, infantile colic, and constipation.  In addition, he is a professor, author, and researcher. He currently sees patients at Guelph Naturopathic Medical Clinic. Please contact him to get help with your constipation in Guelph.

Click here to read his full bio.

Move your bowels!

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References

1. Atkinson W, Sheldon T, Shaath N, Whorwell P. Food elimination based on IgG antibodies in irritable bowel syndrome: a randomised controlled trial. Gut. 2004;53(10):1459-1464. [PubMed]
2. Drisko J, Bischoff B, Hall M, McCallum R. Treating irritable bowel syndrome with a food elimination diet followed by food challenge and probiotics. J Am Coll Nutr. 2006;25(6):514-522. [PubMed]
3. Shahbazkhani B, Sadeghi A, Malekzadeh R, et al. Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity Has Narrowed the Spectrum of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2015;7(6):4542-4554. [PubMed]
4. Konturek P, Brzozowski T, Konturek S. Stress and the gut: pathophysiology, clinical consequences, diagnostic approach and treatment options. J Physiol Pharmacol. 2011;62(6):591-599. [PubMed]
5. Ibrahim N. A systematic review of the prevalence and risk factors of irritable bowel syndrome among medical students. Turk J Gastroenterol. 2016;27(1):10-16. [PubMed]
6. Ghoshal U, Shukla R, Srivastava D, Ghoshal UC. Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Particularly the Constipation-Predominant Form, Involves an Increase in Methanobrevibacter smithii, Which Is Associated with Higher Methane Production.Gut Liver. 2016 Nov 15;10(6):932-938.[PubMed]

Disclaimer: This content is subject to change. The information is intended to inform and educate; it does not replace the medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. © 2018 Guelph Naturopathic Medical Clinic. All rights reserved.