Supplements To The Rescue

gastrogirl
Oct 12, 2016
3 min read

Health Update: I have finally gotten my bulk order of supplements that my functional medicine nutritionist has recommended that I take for the next 60 days of treatment! While I am a bit under the weather and cannot physically feel any immediate improvement after 1 full day of taking the supplements, I am so excited to see how they will work and mend the digestive and adrenal functions in my body!

*Before reading, please note that these supplements are to be administered by your doctor/FM nutritionist/naturopath etc. Do not take without consulting a professional!

*This post will be updated in 3 weeks to see if I have found any relief or success with these supplements!

Why Take A Supplement?

Firstly, I think it is important to note that no one is the same and everyone's body has its own unique genetic blueprint, which includes genetic weaknesses. For those with gastrointestinal issues, our bodies tend to be a bit more 'sensitive' to the curves that life throws and our ability to handle stress or sickness can be challenged if our digestive system is jeopardized.

Prior to the SIBO diagnosis, I have never taken more than a vitamin D or C supplement a couple times a week. Supplements can come in handy when there is a specific jeopardization in the body, as they work to improve our health and provide us with essential nutrients.

Supplements & Sibo

While research goes back and forth on whether or not those diagnosed with SIBO should take probiotics, there is one supplement that all docs seem to agree on: Digestive Enzymes

My friend, Nika, who suffered from SIBO as well, was the one who first told me all the benefits and dire necessities of taking digestive enzymes as soon as you get diagnosed. If you think about it, it is quite simple:

You have SIBO, which means your small intestine is compromised. The bacteria in your small intestine have been sneakily stealing all the nutrients from your food... So while you've been starving, those selfish buggers have been having a gluttonous party. With SIBO, the bacteria that is commonly found in the colon is present in the small intestine. This can happen when the bacteria migrate backwards into the small bowel or when there is low stomach acid or poor pancreatic enzyme production. Digestive enzymes are an excellent supplement to help mend and serve your body's weakened digestive process; if your pancreas is unable to produce the enzymes needed to break down food, likewise with low stomach acid, then digestive supplements may be something your nutritionist/doctor will recommend!

They are typically taken with every meal, up to 5-6 times a day, while you are eating. In addition to helping break down your carbs, proteins and fats, digestive enzymes help to support the immune system and will ensure that your body is properly absorbing the nutrients― something your body has long been missing since the SIBO manifestation!

Why I Need These Supplements

After my blood test results to test for hyperthyroidism (genetic link), my nutritionist and I were surprised to find that almost everything was working smoothly... My iron levels were off the charts and my white blood cell count was completely normal. I had no thyroid problems or anything else out of the ordinary, except for weak adrenal glands, which explained why I would get sick so frequently and for extended amounts of time.

Why does this matter? There is a strong link between those with hyperthyroidism and SIBO and so it was imperative to rule this connection out. The results concluded that my SIBO problem was not caused or worsened by my thyroid. From a peace of mind perspective: I was really glad Tanya conducted a blood test... the last time I had a blood test was 6 years ago when I got diagnosed with mono for the second year in a row! To be able to see that my body is 'normal' everywhere except the gut, was a relief.

So, in order to treat my weak adrenal glands and continue to fight SIBO, Tanya has prescribed the following for me:

1. Optimal Liposomal Vitamin C

1tsp x day

2. Enzymix Pro by Apex Energetics

1-2 per meal (during meals)

3. Adaptocrine by Apex Energetics

4 x day (during meals)