View source for Digestive Dysfunction

== What Does It Mean? ==
Digestive Dysfunction refers to chronic imbalances in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract that can lead to poor digestion, nutrient malabsorption, inflammation, and systemic health issues. This dysfunction often involves gut dysbiosis, enzyme deficiencies, increased intestinal permeability, and immune activation.

== How Did We Get There? ==

=== Root Causes: ===

* Gut Dysbiosis – Imbalance in gut microbiota leading to inflammation and digestive discomfort.
* Low Stomach Acid – Impaired protein breakdown and nutrient absorption.
* Enzyme Deficiencies – Poor digestion of macronutrients, leading to bloating and food intolerance.
* Leaky Gut Syndrome – Increased intestinal permeability contributing to systemic inflammation.
* Food Sensitivities – Undiagnosed intolerances leading to chronic inflammation.
* Chronic Stress – Elevated cortisol levels impairing digestion and gut motility.
* Toxin & Heavy Metal Accumulation – Burdening the liver and gut detoxification pathways.

=== Signs & Symptoms: ===

* Bloating and gas
* Acid reflux or heartburn
* Constipation or diarrhea
* Food intolerances and sensitivities
* Nutrient deficiencies (low B12, iron, or magnesium)
* Skin issues such as eczema and acne
* Fatigue and brain fog

=== Lab Test Findings ===
(Note: Additional lab tests may be referenced for a comprehensive evaluation.)
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Lab Test Name'''
|'''Expected Changes'''
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|Albumin
|Decreased
|4.50-5.00 g/dL
|-
|Alkaline Phosphatase
|Altered
|45.00-100.00 IU/L
|-
|ALT (SGPT)
|Increased
|10.00-26.00 IU/L
|-
|AST (SGOT)
|Increased
|10.00-26.00 IU/L
|-
|Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
|Altered
|10.00-16.00 mg/dL
|-
|Cholesterol, Serum
|Dysregulated
|180.00-200.00 mg/dL
|-
|Creatinine
|Increased
|0.80-1.10 mg/dL
|-
|Ferritin
|Altered
|45.00-79.00 ng/dL
|-
|Gamma Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
|Increased
|10.00-30.00 U/L
|-
|Glucose, Serum
|Altered
|70-99 mg/dL
|-
|Homocysteine
|Increased
|5.00-7.20
|-
|Magnesium, Serum
|Decreased
|2.20-2.50 mg/dL
|-
|Vitamin B12
|Decreased
|545.00-1100.00 µmol/L
|-
|Vitamin D25-OH, Total
|Decreased
|50-80 ng/mL
|-
|Yeast & Food Sensitivity IgE Tests
|Increased
|0-0.10 kU/L
|}

== How Do We Treat It? ==
A Functional Medicine approach focuses on restoring gut health, reducing inflammation, and optimizing digestive function through targeted supplementation and lifestyle changes.

=== Supplement Protocol ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement'''
|'''      Function''' 
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|Advanced Vita-Biotic R
|Supports gut health, reduces inflammation, promotes neurotransmitter production
|1 capsule with food,  daily
|-
|Endura
|Enhances hydration and supports adrenal function
|1 packet with or without food, three times daily 
|-
|D-Mannose Powder
|Supports gut microbiota balance
|1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily
|-
|Pylouricil
|Supports stomach lining health and promotes a balanced gut microbiome
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita Defense
|Boosts immune function and protects against oxidative stress
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|V-Pax
|Supports neurological function and mood stabilization
|2 capsules without food, twice daily
|-
|CoQ-10 300 mg
|Supports mitochondrial function and energy production
|2 capsules with food, daily
|-
|Vita-Candid
|Helps regulate gut microbiota
|2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily
|-
|V-Inflamma
|Reduces systemic inflammation
|1 capsule without food,daily
|-
|Vita B Methyl
|Supports methylation and neurotransmitter synthesis
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita DIM
|Supports hormonal balance and estrogen metabolism
|2 capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Digestyzyme
|Supports digestion and nutrient absorption
|2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily
|-
|Vita-Glutathione
|Supports detoxification and oxidative stress reduction
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Magnesium
|Essential for relaxation and neurotransmitter production
|2 capsule with or without food, daily
|-
|V-Collagen
|Supports tissue repair and overall wellness
|1 scoop of powder without food, daily
|-
|SBI Powder
|Supports gut barrier function and immune modulation
|1 scoop of powder in cold liquids, daily
|-
|Gluta Protect
|Enhances glutathione levels for detoxification
|1 scoop of powder without food, twice daily
|-
|Vita Microbe
|Supports microbiome balance and immune function
|3  capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Vita Buffered C Powder
|Provides antioxidant support and enhances immune function
|¼  scoop of powder with food, twice daily
|-
|Vita-Biotic
|Supports gut health and neurotransmitter production
|4  capsules without food,daily
|-
|Vita Flux 
|Nitric oxide & vascular health support
|2 capsules 20-30 minutes  prior to food, three times daily 
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===

* Dietary Support: Remove inflammatory foods and introduce gut-healing nutrients.
* Hydration: Adequate water intake to support digestion and detoxification.
* Stress Management: Implement mindfulness and relaxation techniques to lower cortisol.
* Probiotic-Rich Foods: Include fermented foods to support gut microbiota.
* Fiber Intake: Increase fiber consumption for improved gut motility and microbiome health.