Nutrition-stress repertory

[DCR]

Nutrition - particularly the relation between bowel and liver function and the ability to absorb and utilize nutrients is a big topic. I see these problems in my practice a great deal since for some reason I see a lot of individuals with medical diagnosis of IBS, Crohn's, etc.
Your particular need for specific nutrients in balance with others is not unusual. I see this a great deal, mostly in individuals taking supplements from specific companies (synthetic, poorly processed, etc.), and those taking individual supplements based on 'things I've heard were good for me'. Yikes - I hear that a lot. Too many people cobble together bits and pieces of nutritional advice from friends, magazines, instructors, radio interviews, email lists, and "google" searches. Then they wonder why they are out of balance, or why they are experiencing symptoms. It is like a car factory that trucks in a vast supply of car doors of all sizes, and windows of only one size, and only 4 mechanisms for raising and lowering the windows. Occasionally the fit will come together - and a car rolls off the assembly line looking alright - but most of the time the cars will simply have to function without any windows. You may not notice it much if you live in a dry area. But if you live where there is rain or snow - you'll notice it sooner.
I use the term 'boomerang effect' to describe something I see very often. People start a program of supplements (usually based on non-individualized information) in an effort to feel better - and of course they use too much. Frequently they do it when constipated. Also frequently they do it when they've just started at an excercise program. Three days later they are sick. Misserably sick. The supplements have started at least some of the systems to working better and the body tries to eliminate waste. The poorly functioning bowel system won't allow the waste to be removed fast enough. Now the waste is re-absorbed and puts more load on an already overloaded liver. So the well intentioned tool (nutritional supplements) flies back and they feel like they've been hit - hence 'boomerang effect'.