Medical Spa & Wellness By Michelle NP Achieve Your Dream Look with Facials and Body Contouring Discover the Benefits with Dr. Serina Lewis newBy Michelle Schlentz, Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner who practices both Aesthetic and Functional Medicine at Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle NP, located in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

Address: 2200 East 4500 South, Ste 130 in Holladay, Utah 84117 

The term “gut microbiome” is buzzing in the health and wellness world—and for good reason. Your gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbes, that live in your digestive system. These microbes play a critical role in maintaining your overall health, affecting everything from digestion to mental health, hormones and even your immune system. 

 At Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle in Holladay, UT, I believe in a holistic, whole person approach to health, which includes understanding and optimizing your gut microbiome, not by guessing, but my performing a DNA Stool analysis and knowing exactly what is going on within your uniquely you, gut microbiome. In this blog, we’ll explore what the gut microbiome is, its impact on your body, and actionable steps you can take to improve it. 

What is the Gut Microbiome? 

 The gut microbiome refers to the vast community of microorganisms residing in your digestive tract. These microbes are not just passive inhabitants; they actively interact with your body to support vital functions. A balanced microbiome includes beneficial bacteria, which promote health, and harmful bacteria, infections and even parasites, which can cause problems when not kept in check. 

 Key Functions of the Gut Microbiome 

 Digesting Food: Helps break down complex carbohydrates, proteins.

  1. Nutrient Absorption: Aids in the absorption of vitamins like B12, K, and D.
  2. Immune Regulation: Trains the immune system to identify harmful invaders.
  3. Mental Health: Produces neurotransmitters like serotonin, which affect mood.
  4. Hormones: Many hormones are both made and utilized in your gut microbiome and there is a vital gut brain connection. 
  5. 6. Metabolism: Influences weight management and energy levels.

The Gut-Brain Connection 

 The gut and brain are connected through the gut-brain axis, a communication system that links your digestive system to your central nervous system. This connection explains why gut health significantly impacts mental health. 

How Gut Health Affects Mental Well-Being 

  • Mood and Anxiety: Your gut microbiome produces serotonin, often referred to as the “happiness hormone.” An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
  • Cognitive Function: Emerging research shows a strong link between gut health and conditions like brain fog and memory loss, dementias, depression, anxiety and more.
  • Stress Response: A dysregulated gut microbiome can increase levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, exacerbating feelings of anxiety and fatigue.

By specifically looking at the very unique DNA of your Gut Microbiome, and knowing exactly what infections, overgrowths, deficiencies, yeast, and parasites, you have and what your actual numbers are, and by nurturing your gut health, you can positively influence your mental clarity, overall health and wellness, weight, mood, and stress levels. At Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle NP, I use very specific, very tailored and well-proven protocols to safely and effectively correct your gut microbiome.  Some infections and highly contagious, and tend to run in families, so there are times a significant other may need to also be checked if you have certain infections in your gut microbiome. I do not use many, if any harmful pharmaceuticals to treat the gut microbiome.  It is vital to protect the healthy microbiome from antibiotics and certain medications. 

The Immune System and Your Gut 

Did you know that approximately 92% of your immune system resides in your gut? Your gut microbiome acts as the body’s first line of defense, helping to identify harmful pathogens and maintain immune balance. 

Key Ways the Gut Microbiome Supports Immunity 

  1. Barrier Function: The gut lining acts as a physical barrier, preventing harmful bacteria and toxins from entering the bloodstream. Many people do have leaky gut and therefor leaky brain, and we need to correct and close this gut lining barrier.
  2. Inflammation Control: A healthy microbiome regulates inflammatory responses, reducing the risk of chronic conditions like autoimmune diseases, Cancers etc.
  3. Pathogen Defense: Beneficial gut bacteria outcompete harmful bacteria, keeping infections at bay.

An unhealthy gut can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses and inflammation. 

Gut Microbiome and Chronic Conditions 

An imbalanced gut microbiome, or dysbiosis, has been linked to a variety of chronic conditions: 

  1. Digestive Disorders

Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s Disease, and ulcerative colitis often stem from an unhealthy gut. Symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation can be directly tied to microbial imbalances. 

  1. Obesity and Weight Gain

Certain gut bacteria promote fat storage and influence cravings. A disrupted microbiome may make it harder to maintain a healthy weight. Did you know that certain fungal infections and yeast can make you crave sugars and carbs?  Fungus and yeast require sugar for survival. 

  1. Diabetes

The gut microbiome influences insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation. Dysbiosis can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. 

  1. Skin Health

Conditions like eczema, rosacea, and acne are linked to gut health. An unhealthy gut can cause inflammation, manifesting in skin issues. 

  1. Autoimmune Diseases

An imbalanced microbiome can trigger the immune system to attack healthy tissues, increasing the risk of autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Multiple sclerosis, lupus and that certain gut bugs play a huge role in the development of these autoimmune diseases and can be specifically seen in your gut microbiome testing.  

What Causes Gut Imbalances? 

Several factors can disrupt the delicate balance of your gut microbiome: 

  • Poor Diet: High intake of processed foods, sugar, and artificial sweeteners.
  • Antibiotics: Overuse of antibiotics can kill beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones.
  • Chronic Stress: Stress alters gut motility and bacterial composition.
  • Lack of Sleep: Poor sleep hygiene can negatively impact gut health.
  • Environmental Toxins: Exposure to pollutants and chemicals can harm gut bacteria.

Travel:  We tend to pick up infections, amoeba, and even worms and those don’t go away typically on their own, they need treatment.

How to Improve Your Gut Microbiome 

Taking steps to balance your gut microbiome can lead to significant improvements in your overall health. Here’s how: 

  1. Start with a DNA Stool test and finding out exactly what is going on in your Gut Microbiome and not Guessing.   
  2. Understanding Food isn’t the biggest factor when looking at a Gut Microbiome, the biggest factor is exposures to infections, deficiencies, overgrowths, Autoimmune bugs, Yeast, Fungus Leaky gut and Leaky brain.  
  3. Once we know what is going on, and once your gut has been corrected you will be on a very specific and very tailored protocol, specifically to correct your Gut Microbiome.  

After Gut Microbiome correction: Then… 

  1. Adopt a Gut-Healthy Diet
  • Increase Fiber Intake: Fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains nourish beneficial bacteria.
  • Eat Fermented Foods: Incorporate foods like yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha, which are rich in probiotics.
  • Avoid Processed Foods: Cut back on sugar, refined carbs, and artificial additives.
  • Stay Hydrated: Water supports the gut lining and promotes healthy digestion.

2. Take Probiotics and Prebiotics That are specifically prescribed for your specific gut needs. There are many types and the Type matters.

  • Probiotics: Live bacteria found in supplements or fermented foods that replenish your gut microbiome.
  • Prebiotics: Non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial bacteria. Foods like garlic, onions, and bananas are excellent sources.
  1. Manage Stress
  • Practice mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress.
  • Engage in regular physical activity, which improves gut motility.
  1. Prioritize Sleep

 Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support gut health.

  • Create a consistent sleep schedule to maintain circadian rhythm balance. Limit screentime before bed. 

  5. Limit Antibiotic Use

 Only use antibiotics when prescribed and necessary. Overusing them will always harm your microbiome. 

Testing Your Gut Health 

 At  Medical Spa and Wellness, by Michelle NP, I offer gut DNA Microbiome stool testing and am certified to both interpret your testing, and to use well proven protocols to safe and effectively treat and heal your gut microbiome.  

Proper Stool Analysis testing will identify imbalances, the health of your colon, inflammation, Autoimmune bugs, Histamine producers, Causes of Diarrhea or Constipation, bloating, overgrowth or SIBO, Leaky Gut or Leaky Brain, infections, inflammation, likeliness of food sensitivities, and so much more.  With proper information, testing and numbers, I will then create a personalized wellness plan. Testing options may include: 

 Stool Analysis: Evaluates microbial diversity and identifies harmful bacteria.

  • Food Sensitivity Testing: Identifies foods that may trigger inflammation.

 By understanding your unique microbiome, we can recommend targeted interventions to restore balance. 

 Why Gut Health is Central to Holistic Wellness 

 Gut health isn’t just about digestion—it’s a cornerstone of your overall well-being. By taking proactive steps to improve your gut microbiome, you can: 

  • Boost your energy levels.
  • Enhance your mental clarity and mood.
  • Strengthen your immune system.
  • Reduce the risk of chronic illnesses.

 At Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle NP,  I integrate gut health optimization into our holistic care plans, helping you achieve better health from the inside out. 

 Is Gut Microbiome Testing covered by most Health Insurance Companies? 

Sadly,  no it is not.  It is something we do for ourselves to improve our health and wellness, and a way of investing in your own health. It is something we typically do just once, and once corrected, you are done.  The infections etc. are gone and balance will be restored once complete.  

Conclusion 

 Your gut microbiome is a powerful ally in maintaining your health. By nurturing it with a balanced diet, lifestyle changes, and professional guidance, you can unlock its potential to improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. 

 If you’re ready to take charge of your health, schedule an appointment with Michelle NP at Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle located in Salt Lake City, UT. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to restore balance to your gut microbiome and support your journey to optimal health and wellness. 

 Contact: 

 Medical Spa and Wellness by Michelle NP 

2200 East 4500 South Ste #130, Holladay, Utah 84117 

 (801) 792-0424 

 

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