Did anyone hear the report on NPR earlier this week about bacteria? It was great! It was an update on an earlier report about bacteria and the immune system. The first report talked about children and pacifiers and how the children whose parents picked up the pacifier when it dropped on the ground and put it in their mouth before giving it back to the child developed fewer allergies. I thought that it was a great report. A few days ago they did a follow up about the important role of bacteria in the body and how they continue to learn more everyday about the role that bacteria actually plays inside of us. It was saying how years ago they thought all bacteria was bad. Now they realize that there is bacteria on every square inch of our body inside and out. They think that some bacteria even may produce their own versions of antibiotics. So why am I telling you this? When I was listening to the report, it made me think about the good bacteria that is found in the gut and how for many years there has been talk about overall health being linked to the health of the gut. It made me think about the ALCAT testing and the dietary plan that we are following and how glad I am that I am working on my health through my intestinal tract.
I have been mentioning ALCAT on and off in this blog and thought it was appropriate to mention it again. The test that we did was looking at foods and their link to inflammation in the body. There has been speculation for years about “leaky” gut syndrome and it’s role in allergies and other digestive issues. However, since using this testing for myself, my family, and clients, I have seen the direct link between food and all sorts of inflammatory reactions. Joint pain anyone? Insomnia? Chronic sinus congestion? Knee pain? Fatigue? Constipation? Chronic stomach distress? Frequent urination? Depression? All of these symptoms and more have been helped by changing our diet according to the results of the test. Foods that you would think are supposed to decrease inflammation were found to increase inflammation in multiple clients. How often have you been told to use ginger, turmeric, or garlic and to eat lots of leafy green vegetables? As a nutritionist I feel it almost a disservice now to give advice that is not individualized for each person. We are all unique and what works for one person does not always work for another. I am learning and growing so much this year and am enjoying being challenged and pushed out of my comfort zone. (Okay, maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration but it is certainly making me a better practitioner.)
No, insurance does not cover this test and yes, there are plenty of people who can’t afford to take it. Is it going to cure all of your ailments? No! Is it going to help heal your gut so that your body can function like it should? I am seeing the results now, so I am voting Yes!
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