Naturopathic Doctors Address Root Causes of Gastrointestinal Problems

WASHINGTON, March 1, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Approximately 20 percent of Americans are affected by a digestive disease. Naturopathic doctors are often able to get to the root cause of digestive complaints that have defied conventional diagnosis, utilizing their meticulous evaluation process and advanced clinical nutrition training. This is according to the Institute for Natural Medicine (INM), which today released a new FAQ in partnership with the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP).

The gastrointestinal (GI) system plays an essential role in overall health. Often, imbalances in the digestive system lead to symptoms elsewhere in the body, including the nervous system, immune system, and skin. Because they are trained to treat the whole person and address the root causes of symptoms, naturopathic doctors excel at diagnosing and treating GI conditions.

While treatment is individualized, naturopathic approaches to digestive complaints are likely to include:

• Comprehensive intake to identify symptoms and underlying causes
• Targeted labs which may include stool, salivary, urinary and blood testing
• Tailored diet based on individual needs and condition
• Reducing inflammation; optimizing the health of the intestinal mucous membrane
• Supporting a healthy biome

"When it comes to GI problems, often, simply taking the time to sift through deeper details related to symptom onset, food choices, and surgical history can help uncover a root cause," said Michelle Simon, PhD, ND and Chair of the INM Board of Directors. "Naturopathic doctors spend extra time both evaluating and empowering patients to make lasting diet and nutrition changes. By helping patients implement sustainable lifestyle shifts, NDs facilitate better health outcomes."
The complete FAQ, "How do naturopathic doctors diagnose and treat common GI complaints?" can be found here.

About the Institute for Natural Medicine
The Institute for Natural Medicine (INM) is a national not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides public education about naturopathic medicine and increases consumer access to naturopathic doctors. As a close partner to the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians, the INM strives to increase consumer and physician choice in safe, effective healthcare that improves patient outcomes and lowers costs. For more information visit www.naturemed.org or call 855-799-4490.

About the AANP
The American Association of Naturopathic Physicians is the professional association that represents licensed naturopathic physicians. The AANP strives to make naturopathic medicine available to every American, and to increase recognition of naturopathic physicians as the identified authorities on natural medicine. Learn more at www.naturopathic.org.

Reena Mukamal
[email protected]
650-218-3139

SOURCE Institute for Natural Medicine

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