Gut-Skin Connection

The Gut-Skin Connection: Why Gut Health Matters for Your Skin

You may wonder why Skin Specialists are blogging about gut health. The answer lies in the gut-skin axis, a powerful connection between your digestive system and skin health. Conditions like SIBO and IBS can disrupt your gut microbiome, leading to inflammation and nutrient deficiencies that manifest as skin issues such as acne, rosacea, and eczema. By addressing gut health through diet, supplements, and stress management, you can improve not only your digestive health but also achieve clearer, healthier skin. Explore our recommended gut health products and discover the benefits for your skin here.

What are SIBO and IBS?

SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth): SIBO occurs when there is an abnormal increase in the number of bacteria in the small intestine, particularly types of bacteria that are more commonly found in the colon. This overgrowth can interfere with digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malnutrition.

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): IBS is a common digestive disorder characterized by symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. Unlike SIBO, IBS is a functional disorder, meaning that the digestive system looks normal but doesn’t work as it should.

Causes and Symptoms

Causes of SIBO:

• Motility Issues: Reduced gut motility can allow bacteria to remain in the small intestine longer than normal.
• Structural Problems: Conditions like diverticulosis can create pockets where bacteria can thrive.
• Immune System Dysfunction: A weakened immune system may fail to control bacterial growth.
• Stress: Stress contributes to SIBO by increasing cortisol levels, which can impair gut motility, alter the gut microbiome, and weaken the immune response, all of which promote bacterial overgrowth.

To test for SIBO today’s standard is the breath tests. Often insurance companies reimburse a portion but be sure to check with your provider in advance as they can be costly.

Symptoms of SIBO:

• Bloating
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Gas and belching
• Fatigue
• Nutrient deficiencies

Causes of IBS:

• Gut-Brain Axis Dysfunction: Communication issues between the brain and the gut.
• Gut Motility Problems: Abnormal muscle contractions in the intestines.
• Stress and Mental Health: Anxiety and depression can exacerbate symptoms.
• Gut Microbiome Imbalance: Disruption in the normal gut bacteria.

Symptoms of IBS:

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea, constipation, or both
• Mucus in stool

Treatments and Supplements

For SIBO:

• Antibiotics: To reduce bacterial overgrowth.  However, there is no point in treating the bacteria without first resolving the root cause.  This may just create a vicious cycle and overuse of antibiotics is never ideal. Not too mention the antibiotic for SIBO is quite costly.
• Dietary Changes: Low FODMAP diet can help manage symptoms.  You can easily do a vegan FODMAP as well to optimize essential nutrients.  However you do not want to remain on this long term.
• Probiotics: To restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria.  While there are numerous types on the market, we recommend getting your prebiotics and probiotics from plant based food sources.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help manage stress levels.

For IBS:

• Dietary Adjustments: Low FODMAP (again temporarily) diet or other personalized dietary changes.
• Medications: For symptom relief, including laxatives, anti-diarrheal agents, and antispasmodics.
• Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).  The Nerva program has been proven scientifically to restore the gut and brain connection for IBS reduction or eradication.  Simply download the app and try the free trial.

Recommended Supplements

• Prebiotics and probiotics: Help restore a healthy gut microbiome. Check out our recommended microbiome products here.
• Digestive Enzymes: Aid in digestion and reduce symptoms.
• Herbal Remedies: Such as peppermint oil, and Ayurvedic Shilajit which can help alleviate symptoms.
  

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The Role of the Microbiome

A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for digestive health. Imbalances in the microbiome can contribute to both SIBO and IBS. Maintaining a balanced microbiome through diet, lifestyle changes, and supplements is essential for managing these conditions.

Nerva: A Revolutionary App for IBS and SIBO Sufferers

Nerva is an app designed to help manage IBS and SIBO through gut-directed hypnotherapy. It uses evidence-based techniques to improve the communication between the brain and the gut, reducing symptoms of IBS and SIBO.

Benefits of Nerva:

• Non-Invasive: Uses hypnotherapy to manage symptoms without medications.
• Accessible: Can be used anytime, anywhere via a smartphone.
• Proven Results: Clinical studies have shown significant symptom reduction in IBS patients.

Explore more about how Nerva can benefit IBS and SIBO sufferers here.

Management

Managing SIBO and IBS requires a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes, supplements, and stress management. Leveraging tools like the Nerva app can provide additional support and relief. For more information on supportive care products, visit our ProLon store to start with an initial “cleanse” and check out our recommended supportive care here.