The gut is the foundation of health. Over 70% of the immune system resides in the gut, and the gut-brain axis influences everything from mood to cognition. When gut health is compromised, the entire body suffers.
The human gut contains approximately 100 trillion microorganisms — collectively known as the microbiome — that influence immune regulation, nutrient absorption, hormone metabolism, neurotransmitter production, and inflammatory balance.
When the microbiome is disrupted (dysbiosis) or the intestinal barrier becomes permeable (“leaky gut”), the consequences extend far beyond digestive symptoms. Bacterial endotoxins (LPS) entering the bloodstream trigger systemic inflammation. Impaired nutrient absorption leads to subclinical deficiencies. Disrupted neurotransmitter production affects mood, sleep, and cognition. Immune dysregulation increases susceptibility to autoimmune conditions and chronic infections.
At St. George Hospital, we approach gut health as a critical component of treatment for virtually every condition we treat — from Lyme disease and CFS to cancer and longevity medicine.
Detailed analysis of bacterial composition, diversity, beneficial and pathogenic species, fungal overgrowth (Candida), parasites, digestive enzyme function, inflammation markers (calprotectin, lactoferrin), and short-chain fatty acid production.
Zonulin levels and lactulose-mannitol testing assess the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Elevated permeability ("leaky gut") allows bacterial toxins to enter the bloodstream, driving systemic inflammation.
IgG and IgA food antibody panels identify delayed food sensitivities that may be sustaining intestinal inflammation and barrier dysfunction. Elimination of trigger foods is often an important first step in gut repair.
Address lifestyle factors that influence gut health: stress management (cortisol damages the gut barrier), sleep optimization, exercise, and long-term dietary guidance to maintain microbiome diversity.
Gut dysbiosis and leaky gut are consistently found in CFS patients. Restoring gut health reduces systemic inflammation and improves energy.
SARS-CoV-2 disrupts the gut microbiome significantly. Gut restoration is an essential component of Long COVID recovery.
Antibiotic treatment for Lyme damages the microbiome. Gut restoration supports immune recovery and reduces treatment side effects.
Rectal and systemic ozone therapy reduces pathogenic gut bacteria, supports mucosal healing, and modulates intestinal immune responses.
Targeted immune modulation supports gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) function, the largest immune organ in the body.
NAD+ supports cellular repair mechanisms in the intestinal lining and helps restore mucosal barrier integrity.
Hormonal imbalances directly affect gut motility, microbiome composition, and intestinal inflammation. Optimization supports digestive recovery.
