In Part one of this two-part series on “Tips To Boost Digestion, Motility and Gut Health”, I talked about the different Types of motility disorders, the overlooked signs of a motility disorder, How exercise affects gut health and digestion, Why heart rate variability can be an important tool to use to monitor your nerve system, the damaging effects of alcohol on gut health, and commonly prescribed medications that affect digestion, motility, and gut health. If you missed part one of this article, you can read it here.

Today’s article, I’ll review several ways Sugar impacts digestion, motility and gut health, the importance of thyroid function, the impact of Low T3 and Hashimotos on gut function and lastly I’ll explain the impact stress hormone and cortisol have on gastric emptying, digestion and motility. 

Introduction to Gastrointestinal Motility

Gastrointestinal motility refers to the coordinated movement of food through the digestive tract, a complex system involving the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon. This intricate process is essential for the proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.

The digestive tract relies on a series of muscle contractions, known as peristalsis, to propel food from one organ to the next. Any disruption in gastrointestinal motility can lead to various disorders, affecting the efficiency of digestion and overall health.

Understanding what affects gastrointestinal motility is crucial for developing an effective strategy for the treatment.

Gastrointestinal Motility: Quick Refresher on Motility Disorders

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorders refer to conditions that disrupt the coordinated movement of the digestive tract. They manifest in various forms, affecting the esophagus, stomach, intestines, and colon, leading to symptoms such as bloating, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea.

Among the myriad factors influencing GI motility disorders, hormonal imbalances, particularly involving Insulin, thyroid, and cortisol, play significant roles. Notably, hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, and other forms of thyroid dysfunction can exacerbate these conditions, contributing to the disruption of normal gastrointestinal function.

Keep in mind that digestion and motility are carried out…. thanks to the coordination between muscle stretch reflexes in the gut, Neurotransmitters like serotonin, GABA, Acetylcholine, the Vagus nerve, the types of bacteria, archaea, and yeast that make up our microbiome and finally the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerve system and the brain-gut axis(*).

There’s a lot to consider when tackling this from a Functional medicine approach. But if your goal is to correct your gastric motility, it’s important to understand the cause of the problem, so that an effective treatment plan can be executed.

When you have problems with digestion, gastric emptying, and the gut microbiome, it’s much more than just avoiding gluten, and dairy and eliminating foods you were told that you are sensitive to. Doing this only skims the surface and is rarely enough to address the underlying root cause(s) for long term improvement.

Why Motility Disorders Are a Problem:

Motility disorders can result in severe issues with nutrient absorption, leading to significant vitamin and mineral imbalances. This disruption in the digestive tract can cause various gastrointestinal dysfunctions, manifesting as symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and infrequent bowel movements.

Furthermore, motility disorders can exacerbate conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and chronic constipation, complicating the overall gastrointestinal function.

The impact of motility disorders extends beyond the digestive system, potentially affecting overall health by contributing to fatigue, immune system challenges, and increased susceptibility to infections. In some cases, thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be necessary to address underlying thyroid dysfunction and improve gastrointestinal motility.

So, in part II of this article on Digestion, motility, and gut health, I want to review how sugar and insulin resistance, thyroid problems, and stress affect digestion and gut motility.

These are things that will worsen your gut motility problems. And if you are someone who suffers from GI problems, if you implement those things I talked about in part I of this video along with the things you are going to learn about in this video—I promise you, you are taking giant leaps towards better gut health. Let’s talk about Sugar, digestion, and motility.

Types of Motility Disorders

There are several types of gastric motility disorders that can affect different parts of the digestive tract. Some common types of motility disorders include:

• Gastroparesis: This disorder occurs when the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and bloating. It can be particularly problematic for individuals with diabetes mellitus, as it can complicate blood sugar management.
• Achalasia: An esophageal motility disorder characterized by a complete lack of peristalsis within the body of the esophagus, making it difficult for food and liquids to pass into the stomach.
• Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction: A condition in which the small intestine is unable to move food through the digestive tract, mimicking the symptoms of a physical blockage without an actual obstruction.
• Constipation: Characterized by infrequent bowel movements, passage of hard stools, and difficulty in passing stools, constipation can be a sign of underlying motility issues.
• Diarrhea: Frequent, loose, or watery stools accompanied by a subjective sense of urgency can indicate a motility disorder affecting the small intestine or colon.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of motility disorders can vary depending on the type and severity of the disorder. Common symptoms of gastric motility include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements. Diagnosis of motility disorders typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies.

In some cases, motility studies may be necessary to assess the movement of food through the digestive tract. These tests help identify the specific motility disorder and guide the development of an effective treatment plan. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing symptoms and preventing complications associated with motility disorders.

Gastrointestinal Motility and Sugar:

Sugar can significantly impact gut motility, and its effects can manifest in various ways. Understanding how sugar affects the digestive system can help individuals make informed dietary choices to support optimal gut health and motility.

When you think of sugar as the white granules you put in your coffee or tea? Or maybe you think of sweets or candy? Sugar is more complex than that. Sugar comes in many forms depending on its source and degree of processing.

The Impact of Sugar on The Gut Microbiome

There’s raw sugar, brown sugar, fruit sugar, corn sugar, milk sugar, and beet sugar. There are also sugar alcohols and natural sugars found in varying fruits, vegetables, dairy, and grains. And then there are refined sugars –usually found in the form of crystals, syrups, or powders.

These sugars pose additional problems to those with digestion and motility disorders (*). Let’s review a few ways sugar affects the gut microbiome and gastric motility.

1. Altered Gut Microbiota

High sugar intake can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, promoting the growth of harmful bacteria and reducing beneficial bacteria. A healthy microbiome is crucial for proper motility, as it aids in the breakdown of food and the production of essential substances that regulate bowel movements. When the gut microbiome is imbalanced, it can lead to various gastrointestinal dysfunctions, including altered motility patterns and increased susceptibility to infections.

The disruption caused by excessive sugar intake can further exacerbate conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, both of which are linked to abnormal intestinal contractions and delayed gastric emptying.

Moreover, an imbalanced microbiome can impair the intestinal wall’s integrity, leading to a leaky gut syndrome, where toxins and pathogens can enter the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation and worsening gastrointestinal symptoms.

Therefore, maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is essential for optimal digestive tract function and overall health. Additionally, an imbalanced microbiome can exacerbate conditions like autoimmune thyroid disease, highlighting the broader implications of thyroid conditions on gut health.

2. Osmotic effect of Sugar

Sugar has an osmotic effect on gut emptying. What that means is that it pulls water into the intestines, and for some people when water is drawn into the intestines, the end result is diarrhea, cramping, and bloating (*). This osmotic action can disrupt the normal balance of electrolytes and fluids, leading to dehydration and further gastrointestinal dysfunction.

In individuals with pre-existing digestive issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome or chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, the osmotic effect of sugar can exacerbate symptoms, causing increased abdominal pain and discomfort. When peristalsis slows down, this can cause constipation, abdominal cramping, diarrhea(*), bloating, and GERD or acid reflux, all of which are common symptoms of gastrointestinal motility disorders.

3. Nerve Damage and Delayed Gastric Emptying

Frequent hyperglycemia, as seen in conditions like insulin resistance, prediabetes, and diabetes mellitus, can lead to significant nerve damage. This nerve damage is particularly concerning in the context of motility disorders, as nerves and neurotransmitters are pivotal in orchestrating peristaltic activity.

Peristalsis involves the rhythmic contractions of the digestive tract, essential for moving food, waste, and toxins through the gastrointestinal system, and is influenced by various factors including thyroid hormone levels.

When these nerves are compromised, the resulting disruption in peristaltic activity can lead to a range of gastrointestinal dysfunctions, including chronic constipation, abdominal pain, and severe motility disorders.

Additionally, impaired nerve function can exacerbate symptoms of gastrointestinal dysfunction, such as infrequent bowel movements and delayed gastric emptying.

This delay in gastric emptying can further contribute to the development of conditions like gastroparesis, where the stomach takes longer to empty its contents into the small intestine, causing bloating, nausea, and abdominal discomfort. Therefore, managing blood sugar levels is crucial in preventing nerve damage and maintaining healthy gastrointestinal motility.

4. Reduced Gut Motility

In some cases, high sugar consumption can lead to slower transit times or reduced motility within the gut. This is due to its ability to dehydrate stools if water is drawn into the intestines, leading to constipation and reduced motility.

Peristaltic activity is the muscular contractions that propel food, waste, and toxins out of our body. When peristalsis slows down, this can cause constipation, abdominal cramping, diarrhea(*), bloating, and GERD or acid reflux, all of which are common symptoms of gastrointestinal motility disorders.

5. Yeast and Bacterial Overgrowth

Sugar can also contribute to bacterial overgrowth and fungal/yeast overgrowth like Candida infections(*). Sugar feeds bacteria, so if your microbiome is harboring yeast and bacteria, this supplemental sugar from your diet is like adding gasoline to a fire.

Some individuals have trouble with digestive foods known as FODMAPS. FODMAP is an acronym and stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, basically, these are short-chain carbohydrates (sugars and starches) that the small intestine that are not absorbed. These go onto cause problems with gut motility.

Most people who have SIBO or IBS, when they eat FODMAPS experience several motility and digestive problems. Some people who eat FODMAPS have constipation, some people have diarrhea, and some people experience just very severe bloating or GERD. FODMAPs again are sugars and starches, and they are found naturally in many foods and food additives.

If you experience Bloating, stomach pain, Constipation, and diarrhea, when you eat these FODMAPS these foods could be contributing to an overgrowth of bacteria and yeast which go on to produce gas (Hydrogen, Methane or Hydrogen sulfide) in your intestines.

This overgrowth of bacteria is what we call Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) or when the overgrowth is fungal/yeast it’s called SIFO.

The overgrowth can then result in many additional problems, like changes in gut pH and gut muscle motility, which can also result in diarrhea(*). If you suspect you have digestive and motility problems caused by the small intestine ie (SIBO), you can visit my website and assess your risk for SIBO by taking my SIBO quiz. If you have bacterial overgrowth avoiding foods that are high in FODMAPs will be an important part of a treatment plan.

SIBO is not the only digestive motility problem caused by Sugar. Too much sugar can reduce beneficial bacteria leading to a leaky gut syndrome and Candida Overgrowth.

Whatever the cause of this overgrowth, pathogenic bacteria, (bacteria that cause diseases), Candida, etc these microorganisms can lead to a change in the permeability of the mucosal barrier of the intestine. In other words, the gut barrier becomes more leaky.

This leaky barrier allows toxins, pathogens, and undigested food particles to escape into the bloodstream, triggering a systemic immune response that can contribute to chronic inflammation and a host of other health issues.

Chronic inflammation can also affect the production and regulation of thyroid hormones, further complicating gastrointestinal health.

Additionally, the presence of excess sugar in the digestive tract can alter the gastric mucosa and interfere with the function of the interstitial cells of Cajal, which are critical for coordinating intestinal motility.

This disruption can lead to abnormal intestinal contractions and slow gastric emptying, further complicating conditions like diabetic gastroparesis and chronic constipation. Therefore, managing sugar intake is crucial for maintaining a healthy intestinal tract and preventing the cascade of issues that can arise from bacterial and fungal overgrowth.

6. GLP-1 Levels

Sugar can influence the secretion of certain hormones and proteins like insulin and GLP-1, which play roles in regulating digestion and motility. An imbalance in these hormones may disrupt normal gastrointestinal function including GI motility.

GLP-1 slows gastric emptying by reducing the rate at which the stomach contents pass into the small intestine. This action provides the intestine with more time to digest and absorb nutrients, and it also contributes to a feeling of fullness or satiety after eating.

The bad news is that drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy both GLP-1 medications have been shown to cause gastroparesis or stomach paralysis. I think it’s just a matter of time before we really understand how this weight loss drug negatively affects gut health.

In some cases, thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be necessary to address underlying thyroid dysfunction and improve gastrointestinal motility.

7. Leaky gut

Diets high in sugar, particularly added sugars and refined carbohydrates, can promote inflammation. People with diabetes, prediabetes and insulin resistance, often experience changes in gut microbiota and increased gut permeability better known as a leaky gut.

High levels of blood sugar cause “glycation”, a process where sugar molecules bind to proteins, fats, or DNA, leading to advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs can impair cellular function cause oxidative stress and cause further breakdown in the intestinal barrier.

Once a Leaky gut is established, an inflammatory immune response targeting the substance that leaks through the intestines of the wall is initiated. This can then go onto affect gut motility and a number of other digestive problems.

Excessive sugar consumption can alter the gut’s pH balance, creating an environment that favors the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria and fungi, which can lead to chronic infections and further compromise gut integrity.

Additionally, sugar’s impact on gut motility is profound, as it can disrupt the normal rhythmic contractions of the digestive tract, known as peristalsis. This disruption can lead to either accelerated or delayed gastric emptying, contributing to symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements.

For individuals with pre-existing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome the effects of sugar can be even more pronounced, leading to severe discomfort and a decline in quality of life.

By moderating sugar intake and focusing on a balanced diet, individuals can promote a healthy gut environment, which in turn can promote regular and efficient digestion and GI motility.

Emphasizing whole foods, rich in fiber and low in refined sugars, can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve the overall health of the digestive system.

This approach not only aids in maintaining optimal gastrointestinal function but also supports the body’s metabolic processes, reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases associated with high sugar consumption.

8. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. Consuming high amounts of sugar can exacerbate GERD symptoms by increasing the production of stomach acid and relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter.

Research has shown that a diet high in sugar can lead to an increase in the production of gastrin, a hormone that stimulates the production of stomach acid. This excess acid can cause inflammation in the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation.

Additionally, sugar can affect the functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter, reducing its ability to prevent stomach acid from refluxing into the esophagus. This can worsen GERD symptoms and increase the risk of complications such as esophagitis, Barrett’s esophagus, and other forms of gastrointestinal dysfunction.

Therefore, reducing sugar intake is crucial for managing GERD and maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal tract. By avoiding high-sugar foods and focusing on a balanced diet, individuals can help prevent the exacerbation of GERD symptoms and improve their overall digestive health.

Thyroid Function Affects Gut Motility

Thyroid disease, including hypothyroidism, Low T3, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, can profoundly impact gut health, gut motility, and the gut microbiome (*) . The thyroid gland produces hormones that play a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, including the digestive system’s function.

When thyroid hormone levels are imbalanced, it can lead to various gastrointestinal dysfunctions including motility disorders (*),(*). In some cases, thyroid hormone replacement therapy may be necessary to address underlying thyroid dysfunction and improve gastrointestinal motility.

In hypothyroidism, where there is an underproduction of thyroid hormones, the body’s metabolic rate slows down, which can result in decreased gut motility(*).

This reduction in motility can lead to symptoms such as constipation, abdominal bloating, SIBO and discomfort, as the digestive tract struggles to move food efficiently.

Additionally, hypothyroidism can affect the production of digestive enzymes and gastric acid secretion(*), further complicating the digestive process and contributing to symptoms like indigestion and heartburn.

Low T3, a condition where the active thyroid hormone triiodothyronine is insufficient, can exacerbate these issues by further slowing down gastrointestinal motility and impairing nutrient absorption.

This can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals, impacting overall health and well-being.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune thyroid disease, can also affect gut health by promoting inflammation and altering the gut microbiome. The immune system’s attack on the thyroid gland can lead to fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels, which can disrupt the delicate balance of gut bacteria.

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) is the most frequent autoimmune disease, and it has been reported to be associated with gastric disorders in 10–40% of patients while about 40% of patients with autoimmune gastritis also present Hypothyroidism(*).

When the delicate balance of gut bacteria is disrupted the result in increased intestinal permeability or “leaky gut,” where toxins and pathogens can now pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation, chaning the gut mucosa and worsening gastrointestinal symptoms.

Moreover, the interplay between thyroid function and gut health is bidirectional. An unhealthy gut microbiome can influence thyroid function by affecting the conversion of thyroid hormones (T4 into T3), leading to further imbalances. This complex relationship underscores the importance of maintaining both thyroid function and a balanced gut microbiome for optimal digestive function.

Functional Medicine and Thyroid issues

Addressing thyroid-related gut issues from a functional medicine perspective involves a comprehensive and individualized approach. This may include dietary modifications to support thyroid function and gut health, dietary changes, Liver support to aid T4 to T3 conversion and the use of specific probiotics to enhance a healthy gut microbiome.

Functional medicine practitioners often emphasize the importance of identifying and addressing the root causes of thyroid dysfunction, such as nutrient deficiencies, chronic stress, and autoimmune triggers.

By integrating these strategies, individuals can effectively manage thyroid dysfunction, promote gut health, and alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.

If you want to know more about the thyroid function and gut health, I would encourage you to read this article on the Most Common Gut problems Seen In Patients with Thyroid disease if you or loved one had thyroid disease as well as gut issues.

If you suspect you have a thyroid problem, I recommend you take my Thyroid quiz to help you assess your risk and severity for thyroid problems, once your quiz is completed you will have a better idea if your thyroid is contributing issues to your digestion and motility problem.

Take the Thyroid Quiz Today

Stress: How Stress Hormones Like Cortisol Affect Digestion and Motility

Cortisol, commonly referred to as the stress hormone, plays a complex role in the body by influencing various physiological processes, including gastrointestinal (GI) motility disorders. Lets review a few ways that stress hormones affect gut function. Chronic stress can also exacerbate thyroid dysfunction, further complicating gastrointestinal motility and overall digestive health.

1.Peristaltic Activity

Stress can lead to changes in gastrointestinal tract. It may either speed up (causing diarrhea) or slow down (leading to constipation) the movement of food through the digestive tract.

This is why conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often have a stress-related component. Cortisol, released in response to stress, prepares the body for “fight or flight” reactions by reallocating energy to essential systems and away from non-essential ones like digestion. This can slow down digestive processes and alter the secretion of digestive enzymes and acid, potentially leading to indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and infection (*).

Furthermore, chronic stress can exacerbate gastric emptying by affecting the enteric nervous system, often referred to as the “second brain.” This system is responsible for the autonomous regulation of the digestive tract and is highly sensitive to stress hormones like cortisol, as well as thyroid hormone levels.

Stress and depression can reshape the gut bacteria’s composition through stress hormones, inflammation, and autonomic alterations.

When stress becomes a persistent issue, it can lead to a prolonged state of altered gastrointestinal motility, resulting in symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements. These symptoms are often observed in individuals with motility disorders, where the normal rhythmic contractions of the digestive tract are disrupted.

Stress Affects Gut Motility and Digestion

Stress-induced changes in gut motility can also influence the balance of the gut microbiome(*). The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network between the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system, plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health. Stress can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and a decrease in beneficial bacteria.

This imbalance can further contribute to gastrointestinal motility disorders, such as delayed gastric emptying and irritable bowel syndrome.

In addition, the impact of stress on gut motility is not limited to the digestive tract but extends to other areas of health. For instance, chronic stress can increase the risk of developing autoimmune thyroid diseases, which are known to affect gastrointestinal function.

The interplay between stress, thyroid function, and gut health highlights the importance of managing stress to maintain overall well-being.

Therefore, understanding the relationship between stress and gut motility is essential for individuals experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. By addressing stress through lifestyle modifications, such as mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation techniques, individuals can improve their digestive health and enhance their quality of life.

2. Blood Flow

Chronic stress can reduce blood flow to the digestive tract, further impairing motility, digestion, and absorption of nutrients. This reduction in blood flow can lead to a condition known as ischemia, where the tissues of the digestive tract do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients to function properly, and can be influenced by thyroid hormone levels.

Over time, this can result in damage to the intestinal wall, increasing the risk of leaky gut syndrome and inflammation. Additionally, reduced blood flow can slow down the healing process of any existing gastrointestinal injuries or ulcers, further complicating digestive health.

The impact of stress on blood flow is also linked to the release of stress hormones like cortisol, which can constrict blood vessels and prioritize blood flow to vital organs over the digestive system.

This physiological response is part of the body’s natural “fight or flight” mechanism, which can be beneficial in short-term stress situations but detrimental when stress becomes chronic.

Furthermore, impaired blood flow can affect the absorption of essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, leading to deficiencies that can exacerbate gastrointestinal dysfunctions and overall health issues.

For instance, inadequate absorption of vitamin B12, iron, and magnesium can contribute to fatigue, anemia, and muscle cramps, which are common complaints among individuals with gastrointestinal motility disorders.

Therefore, managing stress is crucial not only for maintaining healthy digestion and motility but also for ensuring adequate blood flow to the digestive tract, which is essential for nutrient absorption and overall gastrointestinal function.

3. Spike in Cortisol 

Under stress, the gut-brain axis transmits high-alert stress signals, or neurotransmitters and hormones, from the brain to the gut. These include cortisol, adrenaline, norepinephrine, and serotonin, and the GI tract is rich in receptors for these substances(*),(*).

Chronic stress triggers spikes in cortisol, which can significantly alter the bacterial composition of our microbiome (*). This hormonal surge encourages the proliferation of harmful bacteria while diminishing beneficial bacteria, leading to an imbalance known as dysbiosis.

Higher cortisol levels can make the intestines more sensitive, amplifying the perception of pain and discomfort. This hypersensitivity might lead to symptoms such as cramping and bloating, often observed in stress-related bowel issues.

Stress hormones like cortisol, when elevated, can induce intestinal dysbiosis and reduce microbial diversity, a key indicator of a healthy gut, and can also be influenced by thyroid hormone levels. Low diversity in the gut microbiome is linked to various health issues, including leaky gut syndrome (*). This stress response operates through the gut-brain axis.

The gut-brain axis is a sophisticated communication network that connects the brain’s emotional and cognitive centers with peripheral intestinal functions. It involves two-way communication between the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system, which controls gastrointestinal tract functions.

Stress Changes Our gut Micrbiome

Stress-induced changes in gut microbiota can influence this axis, potentially impacting mood, behavior, and overall mental health. Additionally, chronic stress can worsen existing gastrointestinal motility disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome, by further disrupting the gut microbiome balance and altering digestive tract functions.

Your gut has its own nervous system called the Enteric Nervous System, sometimes referred to as the “second brain,” and it’s connected to your central nervous system, or brain, via the Vagus nerve.

The Brain-Gut Axis refers to this bidirectional communication between your brain and gut. When you experience chronic stress, your gut bacteria undergo negative changes that worsen motility and digestion.

Chronic stress can affect digestion and motility in multiple ways, and now you understand how and why.

Therapeutic Approaches to Managing Motility Disorders

Managing motility disorders requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes of the disorder. Here are some therapeutic approaches that can help:

• Dietary Changes: Avoiding trigger foods, increasing fiber intake, and following a low-FODMAP diet can help manage symptoms of motility disorders. These dietary adjustments can reduce inflammation and promote healthy gut motility.
• Prokinetics: Medications or natural supplements that stimulate gut motility. Prokinetics can help improve symptoms of delayed gastric emptying and constipation. These medications enhance the movement of food through the digestive tract, promoting regular bowel movements.
• Antispasmodics: natural supplements that relax the muscles in the digestive tract, such as dicyclomine and hyoscyamine, can help manage symptoms of abdominal pain and cramping. By reducing muscle spasms, these medications can alleviate discomfort and improve gut motility.
• Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy: This type of therapy can help manage symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other motility disorders by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Hypnotherapy can positively influence the gut-brain axis, improving gut function.
• Acupuncture: This traditional therapy can help stimulate gut motility and reduce symptoms of abdominal pain and cramping. Acupuncture can enhance the flow of energy in the digestive tract, promoting regular motility and overall gut health.
• Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: For individuals with low thyroid hormones, finding out why your thyroid is not producing hormones can improve gastrointestinal motility. Taking thryoid replacement alone is only a bandaid.

By incorporating these therapeutic approaches, individuals can effectively manage motility disorders and improve their digestive health.

Tips to Improve Gut Health: Managing Digestion and  Motility Disorders

I realize that for many people struggling with gut and motility issues it might seem like theres no end in sight, keep in mind that the journey to feeling your best is not always as straight forward as we want it to be don’t give up!, there’s always a reason, and like I said sometimes you just need to uncover other pieces of the health puzzle and dig deeper. There’s light at the end of this tunnel.

Here are some tips to help improve gut health and motility:

• Read Part One of this article “Tips To Improve Digestion and Motility” if you didnt get a chance.
• Recognize that traditional GI doctors often overlook these things and frequently show little interest in looking at these connection. Its important to also work with a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner with experience.
• I call this the BIG picture of healing and for many people, its exactly what they need in order to get full healing and recover. Work with a doctor who can think “Outside the box”- If your motility and digestive problems aren’t improving try implementing or considering the things, I’ve talked about throughout this video series and on my blog.
• Functional medicine often emphasizes a holistic approach to treating GI motility disorders, focusing on lifestyle changes, nutrition, and identifying underlying causes.
• Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. A balanced diet supports a healthy gut microbiome and promotes regular gut motility. Eat the foods that promote health. Blood sugar imbalaces including insulin resistance, hyperglycemia and type II diabetes are all major contributing factors to digestive and motility disorders.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help prevent constipation and promote gut motility. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining the smooth movement of food through the digestive tract.
• Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises, to help manage stress, high cortisol, high adrenaline and promote relaxation. If you have high cortisol, work on getting these levels down with supplemental adrenal adaptogens and lifestyle changes like mindfull, prayer and meditation. High cortisol is very damaing to gut health.
• Reducing stress can positively impact gut motility and overall digestive health.
• Exercise Regularly: Regular exercise can help stimulate gut motility, neurological tone and improve overall gut health. Physical activity promotes the rhythmic contractions of the digestive tract, aiding in the movement of food and waste.
• Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to help regulate gut motility and improve overall gut health. Adequate sleep supports the body’s natural processes, including digestion.
• Avoid Trigger Foods: Identify and avoid foods that trigger symptoms of motility disorders, such as gluten, dairy, or high-FODMAP foods. Avoiding these foods can reduce inflammation and improve gut motility.
• Consider Probiotics: Probiotics can help promote gut health and improve symptoms of motility disorders. These beneficial bacteria support a healthy gut microbiome and enhance digestive function.
• Consider Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy: For individuals with thyroid dysfunction, thyroid hormone replacement therapy can help regulate thyroid hormone levels and improve gastrointestinal motility.

By implementing these tips, individuals can improve their gut health, digestion, and motility, leading to better overall well-being.