Improving Gut Health and the Nervous System Connection With Dr. Halie Schoff
Nov 20, 2023
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Dr. Halie Schoff, specializing in functional medicine, clinical nutrition, and chiropractic care, discusses improving gut health, constipation treatment, and the impact of stress on digestion. They explore digestion and absorption processes, the role of the nervous system in constipation, and natural remedies for relief. They emphasize the importance of daily bowel movements, water, and fiber for treating constipation.
The vagus nerve and parasympathetic system play a crucial role in treating constipation by promoting rest and digest functions through belly breathing and meditation.
Chronic constipation can be caused by gut infections, hormonal imbalances, and early life factors like C-sections and poor dietary habits.
Strategies like warm water with lemon, ginger, magnesium supplements, and fiber-rich foods can aid in relieving constipation and supporting bowel regularity.
Deep dives
Importance of Nervous System in Treating Constipation
The nervous system and specifically the vagus nerve play a crucial role in treating constipation. The parasympathetic activity of the vagus nerve is essential for rest and digest functions. Stress, improper breathing, and lack of relaxation can hinder the vagus nerve and lead to constipation. Stimulating the parasympathetic system through belly breathing and meditation can aid in promoting regular bowel movements.
Root Causes of Chronic Constipation
Chronic constipation can be caused by various factors such as gut infections, hormonal imbalances, and dietary deficiencies. Co-infections like SIBO and Candida can disrupt gut motility, leading to constipation. Hormonal imbalances, including progesterone fluctuations, can also slow down gut motility. Additionally, early life factors like C-sections, antibiotic use, and poor dietary habits can contribute to chronic constipation.
Supportive Strategies for Constipation
Several strategies can help alleviate constipation. Starting the day with warm water, lemon, and aloe vera can stimulate enzymatic activity and promote digestion. Ginger, magnesium supplements, and castor oil packs can also aid in relieving constipation. Regular movement, adequate hydration, and fiber-rich foods like chia seeds, raw carrots, and bone broth can further support bowel regularity.
The Detoxification and Drainage Connection to Constipation
Constipation affects the body's detoxification and drainage processes. When waste is not effectively eliminated through regular bowel movements, toxins recirculate in the body, potentially leading to various health issues. Proper bowel movements are crucial for eliminating endotoxins and maintaining optimal detoxification pathways. Regular bowel movements also prevent the need for alternative detoxification routes like the skin and breath.
Focus on Finding the Root Cause
While symptom-focused approaches like fiber intake and hydration can provide relief, it is important to address the root cause of constipation. Factors such as gut health, microbial imbalances, and lifestyle choices can contribute to chronic constipation. Working with a practitioner to address these underlying issues can lead to long-term relief from constipation.
In this episode, Michelle sits down with Dr. Halie Schoff, a practitioner specializing in functional medicine, clinical nutrition, and chiropractic care. Throughout their conversation, they explore the intricacies of digestion and absorption, Dr. Halie's go-to hacks for improving gut health, and some fascinating insights from Eastern medicine. They discuss common issues such as constipation and how stress and gut motility can impact our digestive health.
They discuss:
Digestion and absorption processes [15:25]
Constipation treatment and the role of the nervous system [21:00]
Common root causes of constipation [27:06]
The importance of daily bowel movements and tips for self-treatment of constipation
Natural remedies for constipation relief. [39:18]
Why water and fiber are important for treating constipation [43:10]