FAQ – Questions & Answers
Here you will find the most frequently asked questions and their answers from me on various topics on my site and my blog articles. I’m constantly adding to the list, so it’s worth checking back from time to time.
The bile can be effectively supported with simple, natural measures. A bile-friendly diet includes easily digestible fats such as olive or linseed oil as well as many bitter substances from foods such as artichokes, chicory or dandelion. These stimulate the flow of bile and promote fat digestion. Medicinal plants such as milk thistle, celandine or artichoke extract also help to relieve the gallbladder. Sufficient exercise and stress reduction are also important, as both have a positive effect on the flow of bile. Anyone who frequently suffers from gallbladder problems should integrate these natural approaches into their daily routine in order to strengthen digestion and prevent gallstones.
Typical blood values such as bilirubin, gamma-GT (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (AP) and liver values such as ALT (GPT) and AST (GOT) are determined to assess bile function. An elevated bilirubin value can indicate bile stasis or gallstones, especially if itching or jaundice occur at the same time. The GGT and AP are often elevated if there is a blockage of the bile ducts or inflammation. An elevated cholesterol level can also be associated with biliary dysfunction. These laboratory values are important indicators for the early detection and targeted treatment of biliary problems.
Problems with the bile are often indicated by discomfort in the right upper abdomen, a feeling of fullness, flatulence, nausea or an intolerance to fatty foods. Sudden attacks of pain – known as biliary colic – and yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) can also indicate serious biliary disorders such as gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder. It is particularly noticeable that these symptoms usually occur after eating. Anyone who regularly suffers from such symptoms should have their gallbladder checked, as untreated gallbladder problems can impair digestion and liver function in the long term.
Certain liver valuesare measured in the blood to check liver health. These primarily include the enzymes GPT (ALT), GOT (AST), gamma-GT (GGT) and GLDH, which can indicate cell damage. Bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase indicate biliary disorders, while albumin and the Quick value (INR) provide information about the synthesis performance of the liver. If liver diseases such as fatty liver, hepatitis or liver cirrhosis are suspected, a comprehensive blood test is essential. Checking these values at an early stage helps to detect damage in good time and take countermeasures.
The liver can be supported in a natural way with simple measures. These include a liver-friendly diet with bitter substances (e.g. artichoke, dandelion), avoiding alcohol and highly processed foods and taking medicinal plants such as milk thistle or dandelion root. Natural detoxification aids such as zeolite and bentonite also bind harmful substances in the intestines and relieve the liver. Liver compresses, sufficient sleep and stress reduction through exercise or meditation are other effective ways to naturally strengthen the liver and promote its regeneration.
The liver fulfills over 500 vital functions in the human body. Its main tasks are the detoxification of harmful substances, the storage of vitamins and nutrients and the production of bile for fat digestion. It regulates blood sugar levels, produces important blood proteins and breaks down hormones. As a central metabolic organ, it filters around 2,000 liters of blood every day. A healthy liver is therefore essential for the entire organism. If you want to support your liver naturally, you should pay attention to diet, exercise and stress reduction.
Naturopathic measures can effectively support the appendix and overall intestinal health. A high-fiber, anti-inflammatory diet and the intake of probiotics promote healthy intestinal flora. General intestinal cleansing and detoxification. Medicinal plants such as camomile, yarrow and wormwood have an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect. Heat applications such as abdominal compresses or liver compresses with castor oil can also contribute to relaxation. In homeopathy, remedies such as belladonna or bryonia are used. Naturopathic support is particularly worthwhile for mild complaints or as a preventative measure – ideally accompanied by an experienced therapist.
The premature removal of the appendix should be carefully considered, as the organ fulfills important functions for intestinal health. In addition to its role as a bacterial reservoir, the appendix also supports the immune system and has a regulating effect on inflammation. Studies show that people without an appendix can be more susceptible to chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease. There are also alternative treatment options for appendicitis, such as targeted antibiotic therapy. As long as there are no serious complications, the appendix can often be preserved – with long-term health benefits.
Contrary to previous assumptions, the appendix, in particular the appendix, has an important function in the human body. It serves as a reservoir for beneficial intestinal bacteria and helps to restore the intestinal flora after infections or antibiotic treatment. In addition, the appendix contains lymphatic tissue, which plays an important role in the immune system. Studies show that the appendix helps to ward off pathogens and regulate inflammatory processes. It is therefore not a useless organ, but an active component of a healthy digestive and immune system.
A holistic approach to digestion is effective against stomach pain in the long term. This includes a balanced diet, thorough chewing, stress reduction and a conscious approach to stimulants such as coffee and alcohol. It is also particularly important to maintain the intestinal flora with probiotic foods or targeted intestinal cleansing. Naturopathic measures such as bitter substances, herbal stomach remedies or an alkaline-rich diet can also have a supportive effect. Instead of suppressing symptoms with acid blockers, the cause should be identified and treated sustainably – for healthy digestion and a permanently symptom-free stomach.
Yes, stomach pain often originates in the intestines. Impaired intestinal flora or an unbalanced intestinal environment in particular can stimulate the stomach to produce more acid. This happens, for example, when the intestines become too alkaline due to an unfavorable diet, stress or antibiotics. The body reacts by trying to restore the balance via the stomach. Poorly chewed or hard-to-digest food can also lead to problems in the stomach and later in the intestines. Intestinal cleansing, strengthening the intestinal mucosa and promoting healthy bacteria can help to alleviate both intestinal and stomach pain.
Stomach acid plays a central role in the digestive system. It ensures that pathogens are killed, proteins are pre-digested in the stomach and important nutrients such as iron and vitamin B12 can be processed correctly. However, too much acid can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, irritation of the stomach lining or stomach ulcers. At the same time, too little acid production – i.e. low acidity – is often overlooked, although it can also cause stomach pain, bloating and nutritional deficiencies. Balanced stomach acid production is therefore crucial for healthy digestion and the prevention of stomach problems.
Typical symptoms of stomach pain include a feeling of pressure or fullness in the upper abdomen, acid regurgitation, heartburn, latent nausea and stabbing pains that often radiate to the left or upwards. Some people also complain of so-called fasting pain or discomfort that occurs directly during or after eating. These symptoms can vary in severity depending on the cause. It is particularly important to localize the symptoms correctly – because it is not always the stomach that is actually behind the symptoms. A differentiated assessment can help to initiate the appropriate treatment.
Stomach pain can be triggered by a variety of factors. The most common causes include an unbalanced diet, excessive consumption of coffee or alcohol, stress, taking certain medications, an infection with Helicobacter pylori and digestive problems caused by insufficient chewing. Hyperacidity or hypoacidity of the stomach can also cause symptoms. However, the actual cause often lies in the intestines – for example, due to impaired intestinal flora or poor pre-digestion in the mouth. In order to alleviate stomach pain in the long term, it is important to identify the exact cause and treat it holistically.
When buying an infrared sauna there are several important aspects to consider. First and foremost, the type of heater is crucial – full spectrum heaters, for example, offer particularly versatile heat treatment. The placement of the heaters (back, legs, sides) should also be even to ensure optimum heat distribution. Also look out for high-quality wood such as hemlock or cedar, simple operation with digital controls and tested safety certificates (e.g. TÜV or CE). Size and energy efficiency also play a role. A well-thought-out purchase will ensure long-lasting enjoyment of your infrared sauna and maximum health benefits.
The biggest difference between an infrared sauna and a classic sauna lies in the way the heat is generated. While a Finnish sauna heats the air in the room to a high temperature (up to 100 °C), the infrared sauna generates targeted deep heat through infrared radiation, which heats the body directly. The temperatures are usually between 40 and 60 °C, which makes them more pleasant and more tolerable. The infrared sauna is also quicker to use, consumes less energy and is ideal for therapeutic purposes such as pain relief, muscle relaxation and detox. If you are looking for gentle, effective heat, an infrared sauna is the best choice.
The infrared sauna offers numerous health benefits that go far beyond simply sweating. The deeply penetrating infrared radiation stimulates blood circulation, which can relieve muscle tension and alleviate pain. It supports the detoxification of the body, strengthens the immune system and improves the appearance of the skin. Many users also report better sleep quality and reduced stress. Compared to a traditional sauna, the heat load is lower, making it particularly suitable for older people or those with circulatory problems. Regular use of the infrared sauna can therefore significantly improve general well-being.
An untreated leaky gut can contribute to the development or intensification of autoimmune diseases. Due to the constant permeability of the intestinal wall, foreign substances enter the bloodstream, which leads to chronic inflammation and an overreaction of the immune system. In the long term, the immune system can lose the distinction between “foreign” and “own” – it begins to attack the body’s own structures. This mechanism can be detected in many autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s, rheumatism or coeliac disease. A healthy, tight intestinal barrier is therefore essential to regulate the immune system and counteract autoimmune processes.
Yes, between leaky gut and psychological complaints is closely linked. The gut is often referred to as the “second brain” as it is connected to the central nervous system via the enteric nervous system. A disturbed intestinal barrier can have a significant impact on emotional balance. People with leaky gut often report inner restlessness, anxiety, depressive moods or the feeling of being constantly overstimulated. A leaky gut not only physically lets “foreign substances” into the system, but can also make it difficult to isolate oneself psychologically – which has a negative impact on the psyche in the long term.
The treatment of Leaky Gut is based on a holistic approach that includes diet, lifestyle and targeted nutritional supplements. It is important to avoid irritating substances such as sugar, gluten, alcohol and processed foods. At the same time, anti-inflammatory foods such as vegetables, good fats and fermented products should be integrated into the diet. Food supplements such as L-glutamine, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics promote the regeneration of the intestinal wall. Stress reduction, sufficient exercise and good sleep are also crucial to heal the intestinal mucosa and restore the balance of the intestinal flora.
The symptoms of leaky gut syndrome are varied and do not only affect the digestive tract. Common complaints include flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, food intolerances, a weakened immune system, skin problems, chronic fatigue and hormonal imbalances. Psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depressive moods and concentration problems are also common. This complexity makes diagnosis difficult, but it is precisely this wide range of symptoms that is typical of a permeable intestinal wall. Anyone showing several of these signs should consider a targeted intestinal diagnosis.
Leaky gut, also known as permeable gut, describes a disorder of the intestinal barrier in which tiny gaps develop in the intestinal mucosa. These allow unwanted substances such as bacteria, toxins and undigested food components to enter the bloodstream. The body reacts to this with inflammation and immune reactions. The development of leaky gut is favored by factors such as poor nutrition, stress, environmental toxins, medication (e.g. antibiotics or chemotherapy), alcohol, nicotine and a disturbed intestinal flora. These causes lead to damage to the protective mucous membrane and increased permeability of the intestinal wall.
The most common causes of bloating are food intolerances such as lactose, fructose or histamine intolerance, disturbed intestinal flora, insufficient digestive juices and mechanical digestive problems such as insufficient chewing or swallowing air when eating. Psychological factors such as stress or suppressed emotions also play a role. These various causes of bloating can occur individually or in combination. Targeted diagnostics, e.g. using breath tests or stool analyses, help to identify the exact cause and alleviate the symptoms in the long term.
To clarify irritable bowel syndrome, organic diseases should first be ruled out, e.g. by means of a colonoscopy or gastroscopy. In naturopathy, a comprehensive stool examination has also proven its worth, as it provides important information on imbalances in the microbiome, mucosal damage or inflammatory processes. A combination of medical history, stool and blood diagnostics enables targeted treatment.
Diet plays a central role in irritable bowel syndrome. Many patients react sensitively to certain foods such as dairy products, gluten, sugar or fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs). A targeted change in diet – e.g. to a low-FODMAP diet – can help to reduce symptoms and relieve the bowel.
Intestinal rehabilitation aims to restore the balance in the intestine – in particular the intestinal flora, mucous membrane and digestive function. Probiotics, herbal remedies and a targeted diet are used. Many sufferers report significant relief from their irritable bowel symptoms after an individually tailored intestinal rehabilitation.
There are many causes of irritable bowel syndrome. These include disturbed intestinal flora, psychological stress, food intolerances or increased sensitivity to pain in the intestine. From a naturopathic point of view, disorders in the intestinal mucosa, the intestinal barrier or digestive performance can also play a role.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the bowel. This means that no organic causes can be identified, but symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation or diarrhea still occur. The symptoms are chronic or recurring and often impair quality of life.
Yes, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is curable in most cases, but requires a structured and individualized treatment concept. Successful treatment consists not only of eliminating the excessive bacteria, but also of investigating the causes and providing long-term support for intestinal function. Particularly important are the promotion of intestinal motility, the restoration of healthy intestinal flora and a balanced diet. Although relapses are possible, they can be significantly reduced through preventative measures. If the therapy is implemented consistently, the prognosis is very good.
A small intestinal malcolonization (SIBO)does not usually heal itself, as the underlying causes – such as motility disorders, gastric acid deficiency or structural changes in the digestive tract – persist. Without targeted treatment, the incorrect colonization can worsen or become chronic. Early treatment with antibiotics or herbal remedies, combined with an adapted diet and, if necessary, support for bowel movement, is therefore essential. Even after successful treatment, relapses are possible, which is why holistic aftercare and prevention are important.
But there are things between the intestine and the earth that we humans sometimes cannot even comprehend – so yes, a small intestine colonization can also heal by itself.
In the case of small intestine overgrowth (SIBO) it is important to adapt the diet in a targeted manner so as not to “feed” the bacteria any further. A low-FODMAP diet, which avoids fermentable sugars that are easily metabolized by the bacteria in the small intestine, is particularly helpful. The specific carbohydrate diet (SCD) or the elemental diet can also have a supportive effect. In the long term, the diet should be individually adapted to avoid nutrient deficiencies and to stabilize the intestinal flora. It is advisable to consult an experienced nutritionist or a naturopathic doctor.
The treatment of small bowel overgrowth (SIBO) is usually carried out in several steps: First, the bacterial overgrowth is reduced with the help of antibiotics such as rifaximin or herbal remedies (e.g. oregano oil or berberine). At the same time, diet plays a key role – many patients benefit from a low-FODMAP diet or a specific carbohydrate diet. Supporting intestinal motility and the targeted development of intestinal flora with probiotics and prebiotics are also important components of therapy. The aim is not only to relieve symptoms in the short term, but also to stabilize intestinal health in the long term.
The small intestinal malcolonization (SIBO) is usually diagnosed by means of a breath test. The affected person drinks a special sugar solution (usually glucose or lactulose), whereupon the concentration of hydrogen and methane in the exhaled air is measured at regular intervals. A rapid increase in these gases indicates a bacterial overgrowth. In addition, blood tests, stool examinations and imaging procedures can be carried out to rule out other causes. Early diagnosis is important in order to treat SIBO effectively.
Typical symptoms of small intestine overgrowth (SIBO) are flatulence, a feeling of fullness after eating, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, greasy stools and food intolerances, especially to fermentable carbohydrates. Systemic symptoms such as tiredness, concentration problems, skin problems or vitamin deficiencies (e.g. vitamin B12) can also occur. As the symptoms are often diffuse, SIBO is frequently overlooked. Anyone who suffers from chronic digestive complaints should therefore consider a check-up for SIBO.
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when an abnormally high number of bacteria that normally only occur in the large intestine colonize the small intestine. These bacteria ferment carbohydrates in the upper digestive tract and produce gases such as hydrogen, methane or hydrogen sulphide. This can lead to flatulence, diarrhea, constipation and other digestive problems. SIBO is a common cause of chronic gastrointestinal complaints and is often associated with irritable bowel syndrome:Causes, Symptoms & Holistic Ways to Relieve. Timely diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial for healing.
Stress has a negative effect on the composition of the intestinal flora – relaxation is therefore essential.
Fiber, fermented foods and targeted probiotics help to build a healthy microbiome.
Flatulent foods such as pulses, carbonated drinks and certain types of sugar are often problematic.
👉 Find out more: To the blog article: Irritable bowel syndrome
Targeted intestinal cleansing can restore the balance of the intestinal flora, improve the intestinal environment, regenerate the intestinal mucosa and balance the natural mucus on the intestinal mucosa, thus alleviating the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Building up healthy intestinal flora supports digestion and strengthens the immune system.
Irritable bowel syndrome often manifests itself through symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea or constipation. These complaints can significantly impair the quality of life.
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