Dr. Nina Komarov, Glens Falls, NY (2025)

11/12/2025

Your Immune System Lives in Your Gut (Here's Why That Matters)
Did you know that approximately 70-80% of your immune system is located in your gut?

This means the health of your digestive system directly impacts your ability to fight off infections, manage inflammation, and prevent chronic illness.

The Gut-Immune Connection Explained
Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi—collectively called your microbiome. This ecosystem doesn't just help you digest food. It's actually your immune system's training ground.

Here's what's happening:
Your gut lining acts as a barrier between the outside world (food, pathogens, toxins) and your bloodstream. When this barrier is healthy, it lets nutrients in while keeping harmful substances out.
Your gut bacteria "educate" your immune cells, teaching them the difference between friend and foe. They help your immune system respond appropriately—strong enough to fight real threats, but not so aggressive that it attacks your own tissues (hello, autoimmunity).

Your gut produces immune antibodies, particularly secretory IgA, which is your first line of defense against pathogens trying to invade through your digestive tract.

When Your Gut Health Suffers, So Does Your Immunity
If your gut is out of balance—whether from poor diet, chronic stress, antibiotics, or hidden infections—your immune system pays the price.

You might experience:
-Getting sick more frequently
-Longer recovery times from illness
-Seasonal allergies that seem to worsen
-Food sensitivities developing out of nowhere
-Autoimmune conditions
-Chronic inflammation
-Skin issues like eczema or psoriasis

The Good News?
Healing your gut can dramatically improve your immune function.
When we work to restore balance in the digestive system—addressing infections, repairing the gut lining, replenishing beneficial bacteria, and reducing inflammation—we're not just fixing digestive symptoms. We're rebuilding the foundation of your entire immune system.

This is why I always start with gut health when someone comes to me with chronic infections, autoimmune issues, or unexplained inflammation. Because you can't have a strong immune system without a healthy gut.

Want to assess your gut health and immune function? Get the comprehensive GI Map Stool Test + receive your 60-minute Initial Consultation FREE (+$250 value). Limited time only. Book TODAY https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D
The bottom line: Your gut and immune system are inseparable. Take care of one, and you're taking care of both.

11/11/2025

YEAR-END SPECIAL: Finally Get Answers About Your Gut
"I've tried everything for my digestion, but nothing works..."
I hear this almost daily in my practice. And here's what I've learned: you can't fix what you can't see.
That's why I'm so passionate about the GI Map stool test—it's like getting a detailed blueprint of what's actually happening in your gut.
What This Test Reveals:
✅ Bacterial imbalances (good vs. bad bacteria)
✅ Hidden parasites and pathogens
✅ Yeast and fungal overgrowth
✅ How well you're digesting food
✅ Inflammation markers
✅ Immune function levels
Instead of guessing what supplements you need or what diet to try, we get real data that allows us to create a truly personalized protocol.

Who Should Consider This Test?
If you're dealing with:
Chronic bloating, gas, or constipation
IBS or unpredictable bowel movements
Food sensitivities that keep changing
Brain fog or mood swings
Skin issues like eczema or acne
Autoimmune conditions
Unexplained fatigue or weight issues
..this test could finally give you the answers you've been searching for.

🎁 LIMITED TIME OFFER (Ends December 15th)
Purchase the GI Map Stool Test and receive your 60-minute Initial Consultation absolutely FREE (a +$250 value!)
In this consultation, we'll:
Review your complete health history
Discuss your symptoms and goals
Determine if the GI Map is right for you
Create a clear path forward
Then your test kit ships to your home, you complete the simple collection, and get results in about 2 weeks.

Your gut affects EVERYTHING—your energy, mood, immunity, skin, and even your risk for chronic disease.
If you've been struggling with symptoms no one can explain, it's time to look deeper.
Ready to finally understand what's going on?
Comment "GUT HEALTH" below or send me a message to claim this offer or book here: https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D
⏰ Offer expires December 15, 2025

11/10/2025

The GERD Myth That's Keeping You On Antacids

Let's talk about something that might surprise you, that burning sensation in your chest? It's probably NOT from too much stomach acid.

The Myth vs. Reality

For decades, we've been told acid reflux means we have too much stomach acid. But here's what the research actually shows: most people with GERD actually have too LITTLE stomach acid, especially as we age.

When stomach acid is low, your food sits in your stomach longer, fermenting and creating pressure. That pressure forces the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) open, allowing whatever acid IS there to splash up into your esophagus. The acid burns, but the ROOT cause is often hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid), not excess.

Why It Happens At Night

Ever notice symptoms worsen when you lie down? Gravity is no longer helping keep stomach contents down. When you're horizontal, that weakened LES allows acid to travel up more easily. Plus, saliva production (which neutralizes acid) decreases during sleep.

Common Triggers To Know

Foods that weaken the LES:
- Caffeine and chocolate
- Alcohol
- Peppermint and spearmint
- Fried and fatty foods
- Tomatoes and citrus (for some)
- Carbonated beverages

Other culprits:
- Eating large meals (increases stomach pressure)
- Eating within 2-3 hours of bedtime
- Chronic stress (reduces digestive function)
- Certain medications

Natural Solutions That Actually Work

✅ Stop eating 3 hours before bed - gives your stomach time to empty

✅ Elevate your head 6-8 inches - use a wedge pillow or bed risers (not just extra pillows, which can create pressure on your abdomen)

✅ Eat smaller, more frequent meals - reduces stomach pressure

✅ Address the root cause - work with a naturopathic doctor to test stomach acid levels and restore proper digestive function

✅ Manage stress - chronic stress shuts down digestion

✅ Consider digestive bitters or apple cider vinegar - can support stomach acid production

✅ Chew thoroughly - digestion begins in the mouth

The Problem With Long-Term Antacids

While PPIs and antacids provide symptom relief, they further reduce stomach acid. This can lead to:
- Poor nutrient absorption (B12, calcium, magnesium, iron)
- Increased risk of infections
- SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)
- Rebound reflux when stopping

The Naturopathic Approach
Rather than just suppressing acid, we ask: WHY is the LES weak? WHY is stomach acid low? Is there H. pylori infection? Food sensitivities? Hiatal hernia? Stress?

True healing comes from identifying and addressing the root cause, not just masking symptoms.

Experiencing chronic reflux? It's time to look deeper. Book a consultation to get to the root of your digestive issues and find lasting relief. https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D

Have you been told you have "too much acid"? Drop a comment below!

10/30/2025

Don't Wait Until January to Fix Your Gut
Every January, I hear the same thing: "This is the year I finally fix my gut issues."
But by then, they've already suffered through Thanksgiving bloated and uncomfortable, Christmas constipated and miserable, every holiday party anxious about food.
Here's the truth: January is too late.
Right now, you have 9 weeks until the end of the year.
Start today:
✅ Complete GI Map testing by mid-November
✅ Begin healing before Thanksgiving
✅ Major improvements by Christmas
✅ Enter 2026 feeling amazing
Wait until January:
❌ Suffer through every holiday meal
❌ Start the year bloated and defeated
❌ Lose 2+ months of healing time
❌ Your gut gets worse from holiday stress
Is Your Gut Asking for Help?
🔴 Chronic bloating by afternoon
🔴 Constipation or irregular bowel movements
🔴 Gas and discomfort after eating
🔴 Food sensitivities multiplying
🔴 Fatigue, brain fog, skin issues
These are red flags. The longer you wait, the worse it gets.
Limited Time: $500 Off Before November 15th
My 12-Week Gut Reset Program includes:
✅ GI-MAP comprehensive testing
✅ 60-minute consultation
✅ Personalized healing protocol
✅ 6 bi-weekly check-ins
✅ Professional supplement support
✅ Long-term success strategies
Sign up before November 15th and save $500.
After that, this offer ends.
Why This Works
We TEST, don't guess. Personalized protocols based on YOUR body. Professional guidance. Root-cause healing using the proven 5R framework.
Stop waiting for the "perfect time." Stop putting yourself last.
Your gut can heal. Your body wants to heal. You just need the right support.
Schedule a FREE 15-minute consultation today https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D
💬 Comment "GUT RESET" for details
Let's get you healed before 2026. 💚
Offer ends November 15th, 2025

10/23/2025

Why You're Bloated by 3pm (And What Your Body is Trying to Tell You)
You wake up with a flat stomach. By lunchtime, you're uncomfortable. By 3pm? You look six months pregnant.
Sound familiar?
Bloating isn't normal. And it's not something you just have to "live with."
Your body is trying to tell you something—and this week, we're going to decode exactly what that is.

What Causes Bloating?
Most people think bloating is about eating too much, not drinking enough water, or needing more fiber.
But the truth? It's almost never that simple.
Chronic bloating is usually caused by one (or more) of these issues:
🔴 Poor digestion – Not enough stomach acid, enzymes, or bile to break down food properly
🔴 Bacterial imbalance – SIBO or dysbiosis causing excessive gas production
🔴 Food sensitivities – Your body reacting to foods (even "healthy" ones)
🔴 Constipation – Stool sitting too long creates more fermentation and gas
🔴 Eating while stressed – Shuts down digestion and causes you to swallow air
🔴 Hormonal fluctuations – Progesterone slows motility, estrogen causes fluid retention
🔴 Gut inflammation – Damaged gut lining that isn't functioning properly

Quick Relief Tips (While We Work on Root Causes)
Try these today:
✅ Chew your food thoroughly (20-30 times per bite)
✅ Eat sitting down, slowly, without distractions
✅ Take 5 deep breaths before meals
✅ Try peppermint or ginger tea after eating
✅ Go for a 10-minute walk after meals
✅ Gentle clockwise abdominal massage or digestive yoga
These help manage symptoms, but they won't fix the root cause.

The Real Problem
You can't fix bloating without understanding WHY it's happening.
Band-aid solutions like Gas-X, avoiding foods forever, or just "dealing with it" don't address what's actually broken.
This week, we're diving deep into each root cause—one per day—so you can identify what's happening in YOUR gut and what to do about it.
Follow along, save these posts, and get ready to finally understand your bloating.
And if you're tired of guessing and want real answers? My 12-Week Gut Reset Program, which includes comprehensive testing and personalized protocols to fix this for good. Book a FREE 15-minute Consultation Today https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D

💬 Comment "BLOATING" for more info

10/22/2025

Why You're Constipated When You're Stressed (And What Your Nervous System Has to Do With It)

Have you ever noticed your digestion completely shuts down when you're stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed?
That's not a coincidence. It's your nervous system doing exactly what it's designed to do.
And if you're living in chronic stress? Your gut has been stuck in "pause" mode for way too long.
The Stress-Constipation Connection

Your nervous system has two modes:
Parasympathetic ("Rest and Digest"):
-Blood flow goes to digestive organs
-Stomach acid and enzymes are produced
-Gut motility is active
-You digest and eliminate properly

Sympathetic ("Fight or Flight"):
-Blood flow diverts AWAY from digestion to your muscles
-Digestive processes shut down
-Gut motility stops
-Everything backs up

Here's the problem: Modern life keeps most people stuck in fight-or-flight mode 24/7.
Work deadlines. Financial stress. Family drama. Endless to-do lists. Scrolling the news. Poor sleep. Not enough downtime.
Your body thinks you're running from a tiger—so it's NOT prioritizing p**ping.

Signs Your Nervous System is Dysregulated
🔴 Constipation that gets worse during stressful periods
🔴 Difficulty relaxing even when you "should" feel calm
🔴 Feeling "wired and tired" at the same time
🔴 Shallow breathing or holding your breath
🔴 Jaw clenching or teeth grinding
🔴 Trouble falling or staying asleep
🔴 Racing thoughts or constant worry
🔴 Digestive issues triggered by anxiety or deadlines
🔴 Heart palpitations or feeling "on edge"
🔴 Sensitivity to noise, light, or stimulation
Sound familiar?
Why This Matters More Than You Think
You can eat all the right foods, take all the right supplements, and drink all the water in the world—but if your nervous system is stuck in fight-or-flight, nothing will move.

Chronic stress doesn't just slow digestion. It also:
-Reduces stomach acid production
-Decreases bile flow
-Alters gut bacteria composition
-Increases intestinal permeability ("leaky gut")
-Triggers systemic inflammation
-Disrupts the gut-brain axis

This is why stress management isn't "nice to have"—it's absolutely essential for gut healing.

What You Can Do Today
1. Practice Deep Belly Breathing
-This is the fastest way to shift from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest.
-Try this: Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 6-8 counts. Repeat for 5 minutes before meals.
The longer exhale activates your vagus nerve and signals safety to your body.

2. Activate Your Vagus Nerve
-The vagus nerve is the superhighway between your brain and gut. Stimulating it improves digestion and motility.
Ways to activate it:
-Cold water on your face
-Humming, singing, or gargling
-Deep diaphragmatic breathing
-Gentle neck stretches
-Massage (especially around ears and neck)

3. Move Your Body (Gently)
Intense exercise can actually INCREASE stress hormones. Instead:
-Go for walks in nature
-Try gentle yoga or stretching
-Dance to music you love
-Swim or move in water

4. Create "Digestive Space"
-Eat sitting down. Without screens. Without rushing.
Your body needs to KNOW it's safe to digest. Eating while stressed, standing, or distracted keeps you in fight-or-flight.

5. Prioritize Sleep
-Poor sleep = chronic stress = digestive dysfunction.
Aim for 7-9 hours. Create a wind-down routine. Keep your bedroom cool and dark.

6. Set Boundaries
You can't heal if you're constantly overextending yourself.
Say no more often. Protect your time. Release the need to do everything perfectly.

7. Consider Professional Support
If you have unresolved trauma, chronic anxiety, or deep nervous system dysregulation, you might need:
-Somatic therapy
-EMDR
-Nervous system regulation coaching
-Functional medicine to address underlying imbalances

Supplements That Support Nervous System Health
While lifestyle changes are essential, these can help support a calm, balanced nervous system:
-Magnesium glycinate (calms nervous system, supports muscle relaxation)
-L-theanine (promotes calm focus without sedation)
-Ashwagandha (adaptogen that lowers cortisol)
-Holy basil (reduces stress and supports resilience)
-B-complex vitamins (support stress response and energy)

👉 Get 15% off professional-grade nervous system support: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nkomarov

My 12-Week Gut Reset Program takes a comprehensive, whole-person approach to gut healing. We address stress, nervous system health, functional testing, nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle as interconnected pieces.

Book a free 15-minute consultation: https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D

10/19/2025

Your Thyroid Might Be Why You Can't P**p (And Your Doctor Probably Missed It)
If you're constipated, exhausted, gaining weight for no reason, and always cold... your thyroid is likely involved.
But here's the problem: Most doctors only test TSH and tell you "everything's normal."
It's not.
The Thyroid-Constipation Connection
Your thyroid controls your metabolism—literally every cell in your body, including your digestive system.
When your thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism), everything slows down:
-Your heart rate slows
-Your metabolism slows
-Your body temperature drops
-Your gut motility slows

Sluggish thyroid = sluggish digestion = chronic constipation.
This is why so many people with hypothyroidism struggle with stubborn constipation that doesn't respond to fiber, water, or probiotics.
Signs Your Thyroid is Involved
Do you have constipation PLUS any of these?
🔴 Chronic fatigue (even after 8+ hours of sleep)
🔴 Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
🔴 Always feeling cold (especially hands and feet)
🔴 Hair loss or thinning (including eyebrows)
🔴 Dry skin and brittle nails
🔴 Brain fog and poor concentration
🔴 Low mood or depression
🔴 Heavy or irregular periods
🔴 Muscle weakness or joint pain
🔴 Puffy face or swelling
If you're nodding yes to multiple symptoms, your thyroid needs attention.

Why Your Doctor Missed It
Here's what typically happens:
You: "I'm exhausted, gaining weight, and can't p**p. Can you check my thyroid?"
Doctor: Orders TSH test only
Doctor: "Your TSH is normal. Your thyroid is fine."
But here's the truth: TSH alone tells you almost NOTHING about how your thyroid is actually functioning.
What You Actually Need to Test
A comprehensive thyroid panel includes:
-TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone)
-Free T4 (inactive thyroid hormone)
-Free T3 (active thyroid hormone—this is what matters most!)
-Reverse T3 (inactive form that blocks T3)
-TPO and TG antibodies (to check for Hashimoto's autoimmune thyroid disease)

Most doctors ONLY test TSH. This is why so many people with thyroid dysfunction go undiagnosed for years.
Even worse, the "normal" reference ranges are way too broad. You can be suffering with symptoms but still fall within "normal" lab ranges.
What Causes Thyroid Dysfunction?

Hashimoto's disease (autoimmune attack on thyroid—very common)
Nutrient deficiencies (selenium, zinc, iodine, iron, vitamin D)
Chronic stress (cortisol disrupts thyroid hormone conversion)
Gut dysfunction (80% of T4 to T3 conversion happens in the gut!)
Toxin exposure (endocrine disruptors, heavy metals)
Gluten sensitivity (linked to Hashimoto's)

The Gut-Thyroid Connection
Here's what most people don't know: Your gut health directly impacts your thyroid function.
80% of thyroid hormone conversion (T4 to active T3) happens in your gut
If you have dysbiosis, inflammation, or leaky gut, your thyroid suffers
Constipation can worsen thyroid function by increasing toxin reabsorption

This is why you can't just address thyroid OR gut—you have to address BOTH.
What You Can Do Today
1. Get Proper Testing
Don't accept "TSH is normal" as an answer. Request a full thyroid panel including antibodies.
2. Support Thyroid Function Naturally
-Selenium (200mcg daily—critical for T4 to T3 conversion)
-Zinc (supports thyroid hormone production)
-Iodine (but only if not Hashimoto's—this requires testing!)
-Vitamin D (most people with thyroid issues are deficient)
-Iron (required for thyroid hormone synthesis)
3. Eliminate Gluten (Especially if Hashimoto's)
The molecular structure of gluten resembles thyroid tissue. If you have Hashimoto's, eating gluten triggers immune attacks on your thyroid.
4. Support Your Gut
Remember: your gut and thyroid are intimately connected. You can't heal one without the other.
5. Manage Stress
Chronic stress raises cortisol, which disrupts thyroid hormone production and conversion.

Professional-Grade Support
I recommend high-quality thyroid support supplements like:
-Designs for Health Thyroid Synergy (comprehensive thyroid support)
-Pure Encapsulations Thyroid Support Complex
-Selenium and zinc in bioavailable forms

👉 Get 15% off professional-grade thyroid and gut support: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nkomarov
Important: Always work with a qualified practitioner when addressing thyroid issues.
The Real Problem
Here's what frustrates me: millions of people are suffering with undiagnosed or undertreated thyroid dysfunction—and their constipation is just one symptom of a much bigger problem.
You can take all the laxatives and probiotics in the world, but if your thyroid is sluggish, your gut will be too.

Ready to Connect the Dots?
If you suspect thyroid dysfunction is contributing to your constipation (and other symptoms), you need:
✅ Comprehensive testing (thyroid AND gut)
✅ A practitioner who understands the connection
✅ A personalized protocol that addresses root causes
This is exactly what I do in my 12-Week Gut Reset Program—we don't just look at your gut in isolation. We investigate thyroid, hormones, stress, and all the interconnected systems affecting your digestion.

Book a free 15-minute consultation: https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D

Your constipation might not be a gut problem at all. Let's find out what's really going on. 💚

10/16/2025

Why Your Gut Bacteria Might Be the Hidden Cause of Your Constipation
If you're dealing with chronic constipation, bloating, and gas that won't go away no matter what you try... your gut bacteria might be the real problem.
Let me explain.

What is Dysbiosis?
Dysbiosis means your gut microbiome is out of balance—bad bacteria, yeast, or even parasites have taken over, crowding out the beneficial bacteria your body needs.
Here's what most people don't realize: Your gut bacteria directly control how fast (or slow) things move through your intestines.
When your microbiome is imbalanced:

-Beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (which stimulate motility) are depleted
-Pathogenic bacteria produce toxins that slow everything down
-Gas-producing organisms create painful bloating
-Your gut lining becomes inflamed and "leaky"
-Communication between your gut and brain gets disrupted

The result? Chronic constipation, bloating, and a whole list of other issues.
Signs You Have Dysbiosis
Do any of these sound familiar?
🔴 Chronic bloating and gas (especially after eating)
🔴 Constipation that won't improve with fiber or water
🔴 Food sensitivities that keep multiplying
🔴 Alternating between constipation and diarrhea
🔴 Skin issues (acne, eczema, rashes)
🔴 Brain fog, anxiety, or mood swings
🔴 Constant fatigue despite adequate sleep
🔴 Sugar and carb cravings
🔴 History of antibiotic use
🔴 Recent food poisoning or travel-related illness
If you checked multiple boxes, bacterial imbalance is likely a major factor.

What Causes Dysbiosis?
-Antibiotics (even one course can disrupt your microbiome for months)
-Poor diet (high sugar, processed foods feed bad bacteria)
-Chronic stress (alters gut bacteria composition)
-Low stomach acid (allows bad bacteria to survive and migrate)
Infections (H. pylori, parasites, candida overgrowth)
-C-section birth or lack of breastfeeding (affects initial colonization)
-Environmental toxins (pesticides, chemicals)

The Probiotic Trap
Here's where most people go wrong: They buy a random probiotic from the drugstore and hope it works.
It doesn't.
Here's why:
-Most store-bought probiotics contain strains you don't actually need
-Many don't survive stomach acid to reach your intestines
-If you have SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), some probiotics make it WORSE
You can't fix dysbiosis without first removing what's causing the imbalance

Taking probiotics without knowing what's actually going on in your gut is like throwing darts in the dark.

What Actually Works
1. Find Out What's Living in Your Gut
You need comprehensive stool testing (like the GI-MAP) to reveal:
-Which bacteria are overgrown
-Which beneficial strains are depleted
-Presence of parasites, yeast, or pathogens
-Inflammation and immune markers
-Digestive function

You can't fix what you can't see.
2. Remove the Bad Guys First
Depending on your test results, this might include:
-Antimicrobial herbs or medications
-Antifungals for yeast overgrowth
-Parasite protocols
-Dietary changes to starve pathogenic bacteria

3. Reinoculate with the RIGHT Probiotics
Once you've cleared out the bad, you can strategically rebuild with:
-Specific probiotic strains based on YOUR needs
-Prebiotics to feed beneficial bacteria
-Fermented foods (if tolerated): sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir

I recommend high-quality, targeted probiotics like those from Designs for Health or Klaire Labs—these are pharmaceutical-grade and actually work.
👉 Get 15% off professional-grade probiotics and gut support: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nkomarov

4. Support Gut Lining Repair
-L-glutamine
-Zinc carnosine
-Collagen or bone broth
-Omega-3 fatty acids

5. Maintain Long-Term Balance
-Eat diverse, whole foods
-Manage stress
-Avoid unnecessary antibiotics
-Support stomach acid and bile production

The Bottom Line
Dysbiosis is one of the most common—and most overlooked—causes of chronic constipation.
But here's the thing: You can't guess your way through this. You can't buy a random probiotic and hope for the best.
You need testing. You need a personalized protocol. You need guidance.

Ready for Real Answers?
This is exactly what we address in my 12-Week Gut Reset Program—comprehensive GI-MAP testing to identify what's actually happening, then a customized protocol to remove, reinoculate, repair, and rebalance your gut.

Book a free consultation today: https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D

10/14/2025

The Acid Reflux Lie: Why Your Heartburn is Actually from TOO LITTLE Acid
If you've been popping Tums, Prilosec, or antacids thinking you have "too much stomach acid"... you've been misled.
Here's the truth: Most acid reflux is caused by TOO LITTLE stomach acid.

Here's What's Really Happening
When you don't have enough stomach acid:
-Food sits in your stomach and ferments instead of digesting
-Fermentation creates gas and pressure
-That pressure forces stomach contents back up into your esophagus
-You feel heartburn and take antacids
The antacids lower your acid even MORE, making it worse
It's a vicious cycle that never fixes the root cause.

Why You NEED Stomach Acid
Stomach acid isn't the enemy. It's essential for:
✅ Breaking down proteins
✅ Absorbing B12, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc
✅ Killing harmful bacteria and parasites
✅ Triggering bile and enzyme release
✅ Preventing reflux (yes, really!)
Without it, you get: nutrient deficiencies, bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), bloating, constipation, food sensitivities, fatigue, and brain fog.

The Constipation Connection:
Here's what most people miss: Low stomach acid is a hidden cause of chronic constipation.
When stomach acid is low, it creates a domino effect:
→ Proteins don't break down properly
→ This signals poor bile release and enzyme activation
→ Food moves through partially digested
→ Undigested food feeds bad bacteria, slowing motility
→ Everything backs up
You can drink all the water and eat all the fiber in the world—but if your stomach acid is low, nothing will move properly.
This is why so many people with constipation also have heartburn, bloating, and gas. It's all connected.

Signs You Have Low Stomach Acid
🔴 Heartburn or reflux after meals
🔴 Bloating within 30-60 minutes of eating
🔴 Feeling too full after small meals
🔴 Undigested food in stool
🔴 Chronic burping or bad breath
🔴 Weak/cracked nails or hair loss
🔴 B12 deficiency or anemia
🔴 Multiple food sensitivities

Sound familiar?
What You Can Do Today
1. Stop the antacids (work with your doctor to wean off safely)
2. Chew your food thoroughly – Digestion starts in your mouth
3. Try apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp in water 10 min before meals
4. Use digestive bitters – Stimulates natural acid production
5. Eat mindfully – Stress shuts down stomach acid
6. Consider Betaine HCl – Provides the acid your body isn't making
I recommend Designs for Health Betaine HCl with Pepsin for targeted support (must be used correctly—not for everyone).
👉 Get 15% off professional-grade digestive support: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nkomarov

The Real Problem
PPIs and antacids are billion-dollar band-aids that:
❌ Mask symptoms without fixing the cause
❌ Increase infection risk
❌ Cause nutrient deficiencies
❌ Create dependency
Low stomach acid is rarely isolated—it's usually a red flag for deeper gut dysfunction.

Ready for Real Answers?
If you're tired of masking symptoms and want to actually heal your gut, my 12-Week Gut Reset Program uses comprehensive testing to identify root causes and create a personalized wellness protocol.
Book a free consultation: https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D

10/13/2025

The #1 Overlooked Cause of Constipation: Poor Bile Flow
If you're constipated and nothing seems to help, this might be your missing piece.
Most people have never heard of bile flow—but it's absolutely critical for regular bowel movements.
What is Bile (and Why Does It Matter)?
Bile is a greenish-yellow fluid produced by your liver and stored in your gallbladder. It has two major jobs:
-Break down dietary fats so you can absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)
-Stimulate peristalsis (the wave-like contractions that move waste through your intestines)

No bile flow = no bowel movements.
It's that simple.
Signs Your Bile Flow is Sluggish:
Do any of these sound familiar?
✔️ Constipation that gets worse after eating fatty foods
✔️ Light tan or pale-colored stools (should be medium to dark brown)
✔️ Floating or greasy stools
✔️ Nausea or discomfort after eating
✔️ Bloating, especially in the upper right abdomen
✔️ Difficulty digesting rich or fried foods
✔️ History of gallbladder issues or removal
If you checked multiple boxes, poor bile production or flow is likely contributing to your constipation.

What Causes Poor Bile Flow?
-Sluggish liver function (from toxin overload, poor diet, alcohol)
-Gallbladder dysfunction (stones, sludge, or removal)
-Low stomach acid (bile release is triggered by proper digestion)
-Chronic stress (disrupts digestive signaling)
-Nutrient deficiencies (especially taurine, glycine, choline)
-SIBO or gut infections (alter bile acid metabolism)

How to Support Healthy Bile Flow
1. Support Your Liver
-Eat bitter foods: arugula, dandelion greens, radicchio, artichokes
-Stay hydrated (bile is 97% water!)
-Reduce alcohol and processed foods
-Consider liver-supportive herbs like milk thistle

2. Stimulate Bile Release
-Eat healthy fats with every meal (olive oil, avocado, wild fish, nuts/seeds)
-Don't skip meals or do extreme fasting
-Include digestive bitters before meals

3. Use High-Quality Digestive Enzymes
-If your body isn't producing enough bile or enzymes on its own, supplementation can be life-changing.
-I recommend Designs for Health Digestzymes — a comprehensive enzyme formula that includes:
-Ox bile (directly supports fat digestion and motility)
-Lipase (breaks down fats)
-Protease (breaks down proteins)
-Amylase (breaks down carbs)
-Betaine HCl (supports stomach acid)

👉 Get 15% off Digestzymes and other professional-grade supplements here: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/nkomarov

4. Address Root Causes
-Supporting bile flow helps, but if there's an underlying issue (like SIBO, infections, or liver congestion), you need to address that too.

Need More Support?
If you've been struggling with constipation and suspect bile flow is part of the problem, let's dig deeper.
My 12-Week Gut Reset Program uses comprehensive testing to find the root cause of your constipation—then we fix it with a personalized protocol designed for YOUR body. Book a free consultation call today: https://secure.gethealthie.com/appointments/embed_appt?dietitian_id=3024499&provider_ids=%5B3024499%5D&appt_type_ids=%5B351832%5D

💬 Comment "BILE" and I'll send you more info
Stop suffering. Start healing. 💚

Dr. Nina Komarov

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