Chronic Digestive Issues

Holistic approach to digestive issues for women in Houston

OUR HOLISTIC APPROACH

What Is a Chronic Digestive Issue?

Digestive health is crucial to overall well-being, as it affects nutrient absorption, immune function, and even mental health. Our approach is comprehensive, focusing on identifying and addressing the root causes of your digestive symptoms.

Conditions We Treat

We specialize in treating chronic digestive issues, helping thousands of patients overcome conditions such as:

  • Chronic constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
  • Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
  • Parasites and fungal overgrowth
  • Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease
  • Food reactivity
  • Celiac Disease

Comprehensive Testing for Accurate Diagnosis

To create a tailored treatment plan, we utilize advanced diagnostic testing, including:

  • Stool Testing: Evaluates the gut microbiome and metabolic function, detects parasites and fungal overgrowth, and assesses intestinal inflammation. and checks for markers of leaky gut.
  • Breath Testing: Identifies the presence of SIBO, helping to pinpoint bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine.
  • Food Sensitivity Testing: Determines specific food intolerances and screens for celiac disease, guiding dietary adjustments.
  • Urine Mycotoxin Testing (needed in certain cases): Assesses exposure to harmful toxins that may be impacting digestive health.

These tests provide a detailed understanding of your digestive system, allowing us to create a personalized treatment strategy.

Our 5R Approach to Treating Chronic Digestive Dysfunction

  1. Removal: This step involves identifying and eliminating factors that are damaging your digestive health. This may include removing harmful foods, pathogens, or environmental toxins contributing to your symptoms.
  2. Replacement: In this phase, we focus on replacing essential digestive components that may be lacking. This can involve introducing digestive enzymes or hydrochloric acid to enhance nutrient absorption and improve overall digestion.
  3. Repair: Here, we work to heal the gut lining and restore optimal gut function. Nutritional support, such as glutamine and other healing nutrients, may be used to repair the intestinal barrier and reduce inflammation.
  4. Reinoculation: To restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, we reintroduce beneficial probiotics and prebiotics. This helps repopulate the gut microbiome, improving digestion and overall gut health.
  5. Rebalancing: Finally, we focus on maintaining long-term digestive health through dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support. This may involve stress management techniques, exercise, and regular monitoring of your digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the most common chronic digestive issues?

    Common chronic digestive issues include bloating, constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and food intolerances. These conditions can persist over time and often require ongoing management.
  • What causes chronic digestive problems?

    Chronic digestive problems can be caused by poor diet, stress, gut microbiome imbalance, food sensitivities, infections, or underlying conditions like IBS or acid reflux. Lifestyle factors often play a significant role.
  • What are the symptoms of chronic digestive issues?

    Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and heartburn. These symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go over time.
  • How do you know if you have a digestive disorder?

    You may have a digestive disorder if symptoms like bloating, irregular bowel movements, or abdominal discomfort persist for weeks or interfere with daily life. Medical evaluation can help confirm the diagnosis.
  • Can stress cause digestive problems?

    Yes, stress can significantly affect digestion by disrupting gut function and increasing inflammation. It may worsen symptoms like bloating, cramps, and changes in bowel habits.
  • What foods trigger digestive issues?

    Common trigger foods include processed foods, dairy, gluten, fried foods, caffeine, and spicy foods. Identifying personal food sensitivities can help reduce symptoms.
  • How are chronic digestive issues diagnosed?

    Diagnosis may involve reviewing symptoms, medical history, stool tests, blood work, and sometimes imaging or endoscopy. A comprehensive evaluation helps identify the root cause.
  • Can digestive problems be treated naturally?

    Yes, many digestive issues can be improved through diet changes, probiotics, stress management, hydration, and lifestyle modifications that support gut health.
  • When should I see a doctor for digestive issues?

    You should see a doctor if symptoms persist, worsen, or include warning signs like unexplained weight loss, severe pain, or blood in stool.
  • How long do chronic digestive issues last?

    Chronic digestive issues can last for months or years if not properly addressed. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, symptoms can often be managed effectively.

About the Author

Dr. Shezana Kirmani, MD

Founder & Medical Director, My Pure MD® | Houston, TX

Board-Certified Internist · Board-Certified in Integrative Medicine (ABOIM) · Certified in Functional Medicine (IFMCP) · Bredesen Protocol Certified · ISEAL Diplomat

Dr. Kirmani has spent more than 24 years at the intersection of conventional internal medicine and root-cause functional care. Her path into Functional and Integrative Medicine was shaped by a personal experience — after years of practicing internal medicine, she was diagnosed with multiple autoimmune conditions and found that symptom management alone wasn't enough. That led her to pursue a two-year fellowship at the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, advanced functional medicine training under Dr. Mark Hyman, and environmental medicine training under Dr. Neil Nathan. She also holds certification in Dr. Dale Bredesen's Protocol for brain health and cognitive decline.

She has cared for thousands of patients across Houston and has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Internists in Houston and the state of Texas.

The information in this article is medically reviewed by Dr. Kirmani. It is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical advice. If you have questions about your health, we encourage you to book a discovery call with our team.

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