Gut Dysbiosis

Licensed Naturopathic Doctor in Ottawa, ON

Gut Dysbiosis

The human digestive tract is a jungle of different microorganisms ranging from fungi, bacteria, viruses to even helminths (worms). Some of these are commensal to the gut, meaning they are a normal part of our microbiome flora jungle, and are important for our optimal health. We have bacteria that digest nutrients from food we eat, and in turn produce vitamin B12 or vitamin K for us to absorb. On the other hand, there are bacteria that are opportunistic pathogens, such as H-pylori, or fungi such as Candida. These pathogens “take the opportunity” to proliferate (overgrow) when they get the chance.

What causes gut bacteria or candida overgrowth?

H-pylori can overgrow when there is less stomach acid (Hypochlorhydria) due to chronic stress or long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPIs) use. H-pylori overgrowth can eventually lead to thinner stomach lining and gastric ulcers that may cause severe sharp stomach pains and frequent belching or burping. Candida overgrowth often accompanies other types of gastrointestinal dysbiosis such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and may also occur on its own. Candida will feed on carbohydrates (sugar), so carbohydrate-high diet combined with frequent antibiotic use and hypochlorhydria may lead to candidiasis. There are many paths to developing candida overgrowth. Candida overgrowth may manifest as chronic headaches, fatigue, brain fog, dermatitis, anxiety or low mood, frequent sugar cravings (candida actually releases hormones to make you crave sugars, so that it can feed!), skin fungal infections (feet, torso, scalp), onychomycosis (Toenail fungus), and even resistant weight gain.

Another example of a “normal” commensal gut microorganism is Blastocystis Hominis. In a large percentage of people, this protozoon is considered harmless and is asymptomatic. However, in individuals displaying gastrointestinal signs and symptoms (Diarrhea, abdominal pain or discomfort, gas and bloating, nausea, loss of appetite), B. Hominis is often a culprit.

It is important to understand that we are not separate from our gut flora. Our gut flora is a complicated jungle of different organisms that benefit from what we provide through shelter and food, and we in turn benefit from them taking up the space (so that other pathogenic gut bacteria don’t move in), fighting off the “bad bacteria”, and providing us with nutrients necessary for our body to function.

If you are looking for support with your digestive system, whether it be chronic reflux, gastrointestinal pain, GI parasitic infections, or systemic symptoms that may be associated with gastrointestinal health (such as anxiety due to silent reflux), you’ve come to the right place!

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