Hippocrates said that all disease begins in the gut, and we practitioners of Chinese medicine think he was definitely right. Digestive disorders such as IBS are some of the most common health problems, and among the things acupuncture treats best.
There are many different reasons why our digestive systems might break down or fail to work properly: Chronic stress can affect digestion by stimulating the sympathetic nervous system (our “fight or flight” reaction), shutting down all systems that aren’t necessary for immediate survival; frequent and long-term use of antibiotics can cause an imbalance of gut flora – the microorganisms that help us digest our food; and a poor diet over time can weaken our digestive system, making it harder and harder for our body to function properly. These digestive problems can and often do lead to other health problems such as auto-immune reactions, allergies and food sensitivities, and chronic inflammation.
From the perspective of Chinese medicine, the body is like a garden that requires a balanced ecosystem with just the right amount of heat, moisture, and movement in order to thrive. Acupuncture and Chinese herbs work beautifully to balance these elements and address digestive issues such as IBS, Chrone’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis – and more, by helping to restore an ideal environment for proper digestion. If you experience any of these health challenges, there’s no need to suffer any longer. Read what patients say about their own experiences of healing digestive disorders like IBS with acupuncture.