Constipation and Diarrhea:
Restoring Regularity Naturally
Both constipation and diarrhea are common digestive problems that can significantly impact your quality of life. While occasional occurrences are normal, chronic or recurring issues may indicate an underlying imbalance in the gut. At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, Dr. Tiffani Fries offers a functional medicine approach to address the root causes of constipation and diarrhea, helping you restore regularity and improve your digestive health.
Understanding Constipation and Diarrhea
Constipation is generally defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week, with stools that are hard, dry, and difficult to pass.
Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery stools that occur more frequently than usual.
Common Causes of Constipation:
Low-fiber diet:
Insufficient fiber intake can slow down bowel movements.
Dehydration:
Not drinking enough fluids can lead to hard, dry stools.
Lack of physical activity:
Exercise helps stimulate bowel movements.
Certain medications:
Some medications, such as opioids and antacids, can cause constipation.
Ignoring the urge to defecate:
Delaying bowel movements can lead to harder stools.
Underlying medical conditions:
Conditions like hypothyroidism, IBS, and neurological disorders can contribute to constipation.
Common Causes of Diarrhea:
Infections:
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections can irritate the intestines.
Food poisoning:
Consuming contaminated food or water.
Food sensitivities and intolerances:
Reactions to certain foods, such as lactose or gluten.
Medications:
Some medications, like antibiotics, can disrupt the gut microbiome and cause diarrhea.
Stress:
Emotional stress can affect gut motility.
Underlying medical conditions:
Conditions like IBD, IBS, and hyperthyroidism can contribute to diarrhea.
The Salt Lake Functional Medicine Approach to Constipation and Diarrhea
Dr. Fries, DC takes a comprehensive approach to address constipation and diarrhea, focusing on identifying and treating the underlying causes. This may involve:
Detailed Assessment:
A thorough evaluation of your health history, symptoms, diet, and lifestyle.
Advanced Testing:
This may include stool testing to assess the gut microbiome, identify infections, or evaluate digestive function. Food sensitivity testing may also be considered.
Personalized Support Plans:
Based on your individual needs, Dr. Fries, DC will develop a tailored plan that may include:
Dietary Modifications:
Increasing fiber intake, staying adequately hydrated, and identifying and eliminating trigger foods.
Lifestyle Changes:
Incorporating regular physical activity and managing stress levels.
Supplementation:
Using specific supplements like probiotics, prebiotics, digestive enzymes, or magnesium to support regularity and gut health.
Addressing Underlying Conditions:
If other health conditions are contributing to your symptoms, Dr. Fries, DC will work with you to address these issues.
Restoring Digestive Balance
At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, we’re committed to helping you restore digestive balance and achieve regularity naturally. By addressing the root causes of constipation and diarrhea, we aim to improve your gut health and enhance your overall well-being.
