Optimizing Your GI Health (July 10, 2025)

My personal experience through inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer gave me a unique perspective on the body’s incredible ability to heal—and how vital it is to address the underlying causes of illness, not just the symptoms.

When it comes to gastrointestinal (GI) health, this couldn’t be more true. The gut is often called the “second brain” for good reason. It’s a complex ecosystem that impacts everything from your immune system and nutrient absorption to your mood and stress response. When your gut isn’t happy, you can feel it in every part of your life.

Here are some key pillars for optimizing your GI health, based on the principles of whole-health care:

1. 1. The Power of a Nutrient-Dense Diet
      
      The food you consume directly fuels or harms your gut microbiome—the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes living in your digestive tract.

• • • • Feed the good guys: Incorporate plenty of fiber-rich foods like fruits and vegetables. These act as prebiotics, providing nourishment for the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
      • Introduce beneficial bacteria: Probiotic-rich foods like kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can help replenish and diversify your gut flora.
      • Eliminate the offenders: Processed foods, excessive sugar, and refined carbohydrates can fuel the growth of harmful microbes and lead to inflammation. Consider a temporary elimination diet to identify any specific food sensitivities that might be causing you discomfort.

1. 2. The Importance of Objective Assessment
      
      Guessing is never a good strategy when it comes to your health. In my practice, I utilize objective laboratory assessments, such as blood, hair, saliva, stool, and urine tests, to get a clear, science-based picture of your body’s specific needs.
      
      This allows us to identify weaknesses and create a targeted, individualized wellness program. With your GI health, we don’t just calm the discomfort; we conduct in-depth investigations to pinpoint the specific imbalances, inflammations, or deficiencies causing your symptoms, allowing us to build a truly effective, targeted plan.
      
      It’s important to note that for some people, consuming prebiotic or probiotic-rich foods can actually cause discomfort. This is precisely where the value of objective GI testing becomes invaluable—it helps us understand your unique gut landscape.
      

1. 3. Stay Hydrated for Optimal Digestion
      
      Water is essential for every bodily function, and your GI tract is no exception. Proper hydration supports digestion, helps with the absorption of nutrients, and ensures regular bowel movements. Think of it as a constant flow that keeps everything moving smoothly.
      

1. 4. Manage Your Stress, Mend Your Gut
      
      This is a big one. The gut-brain connection is powerful, and stress can wreak havoc on your digestive system. Chronic stress triggers the release of hormones that can disrupt the delicate balance of your gut microbiome, leading to symptoms like bloating, indigestion, and discomfort.
      
      As a Certified HeartMath Practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how managing stress can transform a person’s health. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your daily routine, such as:

• • • • A HeartMath practice
      • Mindfulness and deep breathing exercises
      • Spending time in nature (I love my “Hooche Chat” walks by the river!)
      • Gentle movement like yoga or stretching
      • Prioritizing quality sleep

1. 5. Movement is Medicine for Your Gut
      
      Regular physical activity helps stimulate the muscles of your digestive tract, promoting motility and preventing stagnation. You don’t need to be a marathon runner. Even a daily walk can make a significant difference.

1. 6. Targeted Supplement Protocols
      
      In addition to lifestyle practices, certain supplement protocols can be designed to support gastrointestinal health. For example, some products are formulated to help balance a healthy inflammatory response and support immune function. Other supplements may be used to support the intestinal lining and promote gut immune health. As with diet, objective testing can significantly guide these recommendations, ensuring you’re taking what your body truly needs.

Your GI health is not a separate entity from the rest of your body—it’s at the core of your well-being. By taking a holistic and proactive approach, you can create a thriving internal environment that supports a richer, healthier life.

For Your Greater Health,
Dr. Steve Ventola

P.S. If you’re ready to move from simply managing symptoms to truly optimizing your GI health, I’m here to help. Contact me to learn more about how a personalized, whole-health approach can make a difference in your life.