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Acupuncture and Holistic Medicine for Digestive Issues

Marlo Rapp

Updated: Nov 30, 2022



“All disease begins in the gut.” -Hippocrates


Digestive health is one of the foundations of overall health - physically and mentally. Where it was long thought to be a relatively simple, isolated body system, evolving research has found that our gut bacteria is involved in many vital roles in the body, including:

  • Vitamin and Mineral Absorbency

  • Immune Response

  • Hormone Regulation

  • Vitamin Production

  • Ability to Eliminate Toxins

  • Neurotransmitter Production

  • Brain and Mental Health and Functioning

What’s more, poor gut health has been associated with autoimmune disorders, skin conditions, ADHD, mood, depression, anxiety, endocrine disorders, and even cancer.

It is estimated that over 70% of Americans experience gastrointestinal issues regularly. As we learn the importance of a healthy gut, this is especially troublesome, even more so considering many people are leaving their gut issues untreated.

Common digestive issues include:

  • IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)

  • Crohn’s Disease

  • Peptic Ulcer Disease

  • Celiac Disease

  • Bloating

  • Diarrhea

  • Abdominal Pain

  • Gallstones

  • Abdominal Pain

  • Bloating

  • Constipation

  • Ulcerative Colitis

  • Acid Reflux/GERD

  • Chronic Diarrhea

  • Gas & Indigestion


Many people are so used to living with digestive issues, they may not even realize the greater threat these issues can pose to their overall health. They also may not know how to address it.

The first step is identifying if you have an unhealthy gut. Common signs that you could use some digestive support include:

  • Constant Fatigue

  • Joint Pain

  • Food Intolerances

  • Unintentional Weight Changes

  • Headaches

  • Sleep Issues

  • Sugar Cravings/High Sugar Diet

  • Skin Irritations/Sensitivities

  • Autoimmune Conditions

  • Upset Stomach (Gas, Bloating, Heartburn, Diarrhea, Constipation)


The next step: cultivating a healthy gut.

Gut Health Do's:


Bone Broth - Promote probiotic balance and growth and help heal leaky gut syndrome with bone broth! This traditional, holistic remedy improves gut health, with the added benefits of boosting immune function, improving food intolerances, fighting pain and inflammation, and aiding in the healing of digestive issues like acid reflux, IBS, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s. It is chock full of amino acids and collagen - just be sure to note that store-bought “stock” is not the same thing as bone broth.

Probiotics - Incorporating fermented foods and/or high quality probiotic supplements is one of the major ways to encourage gut microbiome diversity and health.


Eat Real Food - Healthy fats and protein and unprocessed carbohydrates are your friends. Sugar, gluten, and simple carbohydrate-laden diets damage the gut, brain, and overall health. Opt for whole foods, and minimize the processed and refined junk.


Acupuncture - Research has found that acupuncture is an effective treatment for indigestion, bloating, and other digestive issues. One study found that acupuncture was even more effective than antacids when given to participants to resolve digestion symptoms. Acupuncture also relieves STRESS, which can play a role in symptoms and flare-ups.


Staying hydrated, exercising, managing stress, and chewing food thoroughly and mindfully are also beneficial to gut health. Also talk to your doctor, nutritionist, or holistic provider about glutamine, zinc, and other supplementation.


Gut Health Don't's:

  • Consume a Lot of Processed Food

  • Smoke or Vape

  • Eat Too Quickly

  • Drink Excess Alcohol

  • Eat Late at Night

  • Consume Excess Refined Carbohydrates

Improving digestive health improves overall health. Get on track with your gut health today - contact us to schedule an appointment for acupuncture or herbal and nutritional therapy today!


Four Seasons Acupuncture in Hot Springs Arkansas


Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, cupping, injection therapy, moxibustion, tuina, nutritional therapy, TCM, and more!


We are located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, just minutes from Red Oak, AR, Price, AR, Lake Hamilton, AR, Pleasant Hill, AR, and Malvern, AR.


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