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Treating the Gut to Help Stabilize Blood Sugar

 by Gretchen Perry

Addressing the gut is critical in helping the body recover from insulin resistance and reversing Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM). Science shows us that intestinal bacteria can produce biochemicals and hormones that stop the development of diabetes. We also know that when the gastrointestinal flora is in a state of dysbiosis (a microbial imbalance or maladaptation on or inside the body), then bacteria and yeast that do not belong there stress the functioning of the pancreas.

When treating someone with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), it is important to rule out any gastrointestinal abnormalities or nutritional deficiencies. In 2011 a study was published that showed Japanese women with T2DM had gut bacteria detected in their blood that was significantly higher than the control without the disease. In 2016 a study showed that those with T2DM had higher Lewis scores (rating given for inflammatory activity on small bowel capsule endoscopy) and more serious small intestinal mucosal lesions.

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This research speaks to the presences of 'leaky gut’ or increased gut permeability. Leaky Gut is generally caused by environmental influences and the Standard American Diet. (Specific contributing agents are many and too long to list here).

A comprehensive digestive stool analysis with parasitology can usually determine the cause of dysbiosis. This test, in conjunction with a nutritional evaluation–similar to what Genova Diagnostics offers in the NutrEval®, can identify the root cause of disease. Treating the root cause is critical in halting the process and protecting self from developing other inflammatory diseases.

Although diet is critical, diet alone is not going to solve the problem with sustained results. A comprehensive approach to care includes treating the gut and optimizing its function, in conjunction with botanicals/herbs that help to stabilize blood sugar. 

Gretchen Perry, FNP-BC, NP-C practices Functional Medicine at Fundamental Healing, P.C. in Southfield, MI. For more information, call 248-601-0234 or visit her website at Fundamental-Healing.com.