Healthy Gut, Healthy You!
March 24, 2026 • Written by dr. nicole van van peolgeest, ND
Healthy gut, healthy you! A message from Dr. Nicole.
Establishing a healthy and happy digestive system is a foundation of naturopathic medicine. Our gut health is intimately connected to the rest of our body.
Did you know approximately 70% of our immune system is located in the gut? The majority of your immune cells reside here and are hugely influenced by our microbiome and digestive function. This means that how well our immune systems fights viruses or regulates against autoimmunity is significantly aided by a balanced digestive system!
Have you heard of the gut-brain axis? This refers to how the microbiome in our digestive system affects our mental health and is an important part of addressing conditions such as anxiety or depression.
Did you know that pooping daily has an impact on your hormone health? Or that healthy liver detoxification processes are an important part of skin health?
And what if you’re eating well, and STILL have deficiencies? If we don’t have adequate stomach acid or digestive enzymes; if we have irritation or inflammation; if we have an imbalance in the microbiome — all these obstacles can limit the nutrients we absorb, even when eating a healthy diet! And without enough fuel our body can’t operate all systems efficiently so you start to notice downstream effects such as hair loss, dry or rashy skin, fatigue, brain fog… and the list continues!
Whether we are addressing fatigue, hormones, daily digestive function, skin conditions, or mental health, we’re always checking in on gut health.
Here are a FEW of the ways that our ND’s work with patients to optimize digestive function:
Ensure your diet is well suited for you as an individual is part of the equation.
Rule out malabsorption of nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12 and fat soluble vitamins.
Promote a robust and diverse microbiome to keep your immune system functioning at optimal capacity.
Support detoxification processes in the liver, lymphatics, kidney, and bowels
Sometimes testing is indicated to help narrow down digestive issues unique to you. And sometimes your body gives us big clues. Our ND’s can help you tune into the ways you can support your gut.
Follow for more tips @drnicolevanpeolgeest.nd
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Disclaimer: Information can be empowering, but we all have unique health profiles and needs. Health-related information contained in this article is intended to be general in nature and should not be taken as medical advice nor should it be used as a substitute for a visit with a licensed health care provider.