TO YOUR HEALTH
Are You Interested in an M.D. Who Treats The Person, Not The Disease?
The exact cause of leaky gut syndrome is not well understood, but some of the factors believed to contribute to its development include: • Intestinal damage: Chronic inflammation, poor diet, stress, certain medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics), and infections can damage the lining of the intes - tines, weakening the tight junctions between cells and allowing sub- stances to leak through. • Dysbiosis: An imbalance in the gut microbiota, with an over- growth of harmful bacteria and a decrease in beneficial bacteria, can contribute to leaky gut syndrome. The imbalanced microbiota can re- lease toxins and inflammatory substances, disrupting the integrity of the intestinal lining. • Inflammatory response: Increased intestinal permeability triggers an immune response, leading to chronic inflammation. This inflammation further damages the intestinal lining, creating a vicious cycle. Functional Medicine Treatment Approaches for Seasonal Allergies Fortunately, for the nearly 1 in 3 U.S. adults and more than 1 in 4 U.S. children reportedly having a seasonal allergy, there are reliable, effective treatments. After an allergy has been diagnosed — typically with a physical exam, allergy testing, or blood tests — the treatment of environmental allergies usually includes avoidance of allergens, medications such as antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal corticosteroids. Immuno - therapy, such as allergy shots, may also be used as a long-term treat- ment to reduce sensitivity to allergens. There are also recent alternative treatments for allergies, as well as leaky gut syndrome and chronic sinusitis, applied through a Func- tional Medicine (FM) approach. FM addresses the underlying factors that contribute to its development, and supports the body’s natural ability to heal and repair the intestinal lining. Here are some common treatment strategies used in Functional Medicine: 1. Elimination diet: This involves removing potential trigger foods, such as gluten, dairy, soy, and processed foods, from the diet for a period of time. This allows the gut to heal and reduces inflammation. 2. Gut microbiota support: Probiotics, or beneficial bacteria, can help rebalance the gut microbiota and support the integrity of the intestinal lining. Certain strains of probiotics, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been found to modulate the immune sys - tem and reduce allergic responses. They can be taken in supplement form or consumed through fermented foods like yogurt and sauer- kraut. Prebiotics, which are dietary fibers that nourish the gut bacte - ria, may also be recommended. 3. Nutritional & digestive support: Supplements may be used to support gut healing and reduce inflammation These may include substances like L- glutamine, zinc, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids as well as quercetin. Enzymes, hydrochloric acid,and bile salts sup - plements may be used to improve digestion and nutrient absorption; but these need to be determined specifically for each patient. Herbal remedies offer another natural alternative. Certain herbal extracts, such as butterbur, stinging nettle, and quercetin, have shown anti-in- flammatory properties and may provide relief for allergic symptoms. 4. Detoxification support: Supporting the liver’s detoxification pathways and reducing the burden of toxins on the body can help re-
Introducing Holistic Physician Margaret Gennaro, MD, FAAP, NMD, ABIHM Member: American Academy of Pediatrics American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine American Holistic Medical Association Holistic Pediatric Association
Dr. Gennaro is a double board-certified physician with over 30 years of experience who is committed to providing both adults and children personalized, holistic care for those who wish to participate in their own health care. Dr. Gennaro combines cutting-edge medical expertise with warmth and compassion. She utilizes the following modalities to allow the body to naturally heal itself: ✽ herbs ✽ nutrients ✽ acupressure ✽ spiritual growth ✽ homeopathic detox ✽ mind-body techniques [Emotional Freedom Technique, Tapas Acupressure Technique, and The Emotion Code]
Dr. Gennaro is experienced in:
◆ Fatigue ◆ Depression ◆ Phobias
◆ Asthma/Chronic Allergies ◆ Yeast Overgrowth ◆ Natural HRT ◆ Irritable Bowel Syndrome ◆ Autism/Learning Disabilities ◆ Thyroid/Adrenal Dysfunction
◆ Fibromyalgia ◆ ADD/ADHD ◆ Ear/Sinus Infections
Supplements shipped or picked up from our Hallway Bin!
Mosby Tower 10560 Main Street, Suite 301 Fairfax, VA 22030 703-865-5692 • www.DrMGennaro.com E-mail: DrMGennaro@yahoo.com Telehealth Consults Are Available! Call to make an appointment today!
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PATHWAYS—Spring 24—29
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