Navigating gastrointestinal health: A patient’s triumph through dysbiosis protocol
- Patient age: 27
- Gender: Female
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- BMI: 21.35
- Presenting complaints: IBS-like symptoms, fatigue, mental slowness
- Outcome: More energy, IBS-like symptoms gone, able to eat nearly all foods not previously tolerated
In a recent case at this dietitian's clinic, a patient presented with IBS-like symptoms, fatigue, mental slowness, and a history of low iron. This patient's journey towards renewed health serves as an inspiring testament to the power of education, personalised protocols, and determination under the guidance of her dietitian.
Understanding the patient
Upon consultation, the patient shared her struggles with gastrointestinal issues, including bloating, pain, and constipation, triggered by certain foods like legumes, alliums, corn, and a large portion of vegetables. A four-day food diary revealed valuable insights into her dietary habits, laying the foundation for the dietitian's targeted approach.
Educational empowerment
Armed with a comprehensive understanding of dysbiosis, the dietitian engaged in an educational session discussing the factors contributing to the patient's symptoms, including low fibre intake, high consumption of animal products, and processed foods. The patient was equipped with a dysbiosis protocol, a combination of Dr Michael Klaper's (Moving Medicine Forward) course suggestions, another whole food plant-based (WFPB) GP's insights, and the dietitian's personalised recommendations.
Dysbiosis protocol
The initial phase comprised a two-week low FODMAP diet, focusing on cooked vegetables, fresh salads, non-glutenous grains, tofu, tempeh, and a daily green smoothie while avoiding animal products, ultra-processed foods, alcohol, caffeine, oils, salt, and sugar.
The dietitian highlighted dietary recommendations, including specific berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries) while cautioning against blackberries due to their high FODMAP content. Additionally, incorporating flax and chia seeds for omega-3 fatty acids as part of the dysbiosis protocol was emphasised to promote gut health and mental wellbeing.
Furthermore, the dietitian provided a brief yet crucial education on low ferritin levels and practical strategies for maximising iron absorption through dietary choices. This holistic approach ensured the patient received comprehensive guidance for addressing gastrointestinal symptoms and broader wellbeing.
The patient diligently followed the elimination and reintroduction process, reintroducing one food every three days, starting with the whole plant foods she missed the most.
Patient dedication and progress
Two weeks into the protocol, the patient reported increased energy and a notable absence of gastrointestinal discomfort. Encouraged by these positive changes, she proceeded with the reintroduction phase, discovering that Brussels sprouts were the only whole plant food exacerbating her symptoms.
By the third visit, the patient successfully reintroduced all her usual foods, with Brussels sprouts being the sole exception. Inquisitive about other dietary choices, she inquired about mock meats, receiving guidance on their potential impact on symptoms. Now armed with knowledge and a heightened awareness of her body, the patient explored alternatives and decided to forego coffee, noting elevated energy levels.
Ongoing wellbeing
On her final visit, the patient expressed joy at consuming various foods and managing her gastrointestinal symptoms effectively. She highlighted her newfound appreciation for a daily green smoothie, showcasing the sustaining impact of holistic dietary changes.
This success story emphasises the transformative potential of tailored education and dysbiosis protocols using a WFPB diet. It is a reminder of the profound impact clinicians can have on patients' lives by empowering them with knowledge and guiding them through personalised wellness journeys. This patient's dedication to reclaiming her health inspires others facing similar challenges, showcasing that a path to wellbeing is within reach with the right guidance, resilience, and a willingness to explore healthier alternatives.
Due to medical board regulations, we have removed the clinician's name from this story. However, we understand that clinicians may want to discuss similar cases with each other. If you’d like to connect with the clinician involved in this case, please contact us. With their permission, we’d be happy to provide their details.
