On the Coast – Over 55 Issue 32 I November/December 2019(clone) | Page 23

inflammation is part of the longer term,
preventative treatment plan for
diverticular disease. Naturopathic
treatment may include further functional
medicine testing such as comprehensive
digestive stool analysis to ascertain
micro-biome balance as well as looking at
other gastrointestinal inflammatory
markers. Food sensitivities may also be
looked at to reduce exposure to
substances that may be irritating the gut
lining. Formulas including glutamine,
collagen and probiotics may also be
prescribed to improve gut lining integrity
and reduce inflammation.
Eating a diet high in vegetables and
fruit, and low glycaemic index grains such
as oats or brown rice can increase stool
bulk and transition time which reduces
constipation and therefore irritation to the
gut wall. Adding psyllium husks, prunes,
chia seeds and flax meal to morning oats or
muesli can also be effective in reducing
constipation. Regular exercise and adequate
water intake are also important and
in-expensive ways to reduce constipation.
As with any health condition, stress
levels need to be assessed and addressed.
Even if you have the most perfect diet, if
your stress levels are consistently high,
this will affect your health and your gut
health in particular. Dealing with
unresolved emotions, regular
meditation, yoga or tai chi can
significantly improve a sense of
wellbeing that inevitably will flow
through to improving health physically
and mentally.
Diana Arundell is a university-qualified naturopath and consults from her Avoca Naturopath clinic.
She has a special interest in fertility and pregnancy health, digestive health, immune function and
family wellness programs. She was a nutrition lecturer at Macquarie University for 10 years, and is an
accredited Journey Practitioner. For further information please contact Diana Arundell at Avoca
Naturopath on 0410 465 900.
Archies Christmas Luncheon
25 DECEMBER • TICKETS $90 • ARCHIE’S BRASSERIE
CENTRAL COAST LEAGUES CLUB
1 D a n e Dr ive | w w w. c c l c . c o m. au
Enjoy a sumptuous 3 course menu that offers a twist on
traditional Christmas flavours, before finishing off on a
sweet note with a moreish plum pudding
Bookings at Reception or cclc.com.au
CENTRAL COAST LEAGUES CLUB
Da n e D rive Gos ford
4325 9 8 8 8 • w w w. c c lc . c om. a u
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER – ISSUE 32
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