Gut Health Naturopath | IBS, SIBO & Digestive Health Treatment | Brisbane Livewell Clinic

FAQs About Gut Health Naturopathy

1. How is a Naturopath for gut health different from a gastroenterologist?

A Naturopath for gut health differs from a gastroenterologist in both approach and treatment methods. Gastroenterologists are medical specialists who diagnose digestive diseases and prescribe pharmaceutical treatments or perform procedures. Our Naturopaths use natural medicine, therapeutic nutrition, and functional testing to address the underlying causes of digestive dysfunction. Many patients see both practitioners. Your Naturopath’s natural approach complements specialist medical care. We research all medications for contraindications before creating your Prescription for any supplements or herbal medicines.

2. How long does it take to see results from Naturopathy for gut health?

Most patients notice improvements within 2 to 4 weeks of beginning their personalised Wellness Plan, with significant changes typically occurring at 8 to 12 weeks. Gut healing is a process that depends on your specific condition, how long you’ve had symptoms, and compliance with your Wellness Plan. Your Naturopath provides a realistic timeline during your initial consultation and adjusts your treatment protocol based on your progress.

3. What should I expect during my first gut health consultation?

Your first gut health consultation at Brisbane Livewell Clinic takes up to 60 minutes ($220) and includes a comprehensive health history, detailed symptom analysis, dietary assessment, and review of current medications. Your Naturopath researches any pharmaceuticals you’re taking to ensure your individualised Wellness Plan has no contraindications. Based on this assessment, your Naturopath recommends appropriate testing and may provide supplements and liquid herbs from our dispensary that day, or suggest waiting until test results are available.

4. Can I see a Naturopath online for gut health issues?

Brisbane Livewell Clinic offers comprehensive online consultations for all Australian residents. Online gut health consultations are equally effective as in-person appointments. Testing kits are posted to your home address, and follow-up Wellness Plan adjustments occur via secure video consultation. Supplements and herbal medicines can be posted to you, or collected from our Brisbane Clinics if convenient.

5. Do I need testing, or can treatment begin immediately?

Whether you need testing depends on your symptoms, health history, and previous investigations. Some patients begin their Wellness Plan immediately with supplements and dietary changes from our dispensary, while others benefit from comprehensive testing first to identify specific imbalances, infections, or intolerances. Your Naturopath recommends the most appropriate pathway during your initial consultation. Tests can be purchased at that appointment and either taken home or ordered and posted to you.

6. Will my Naturopath work with my GP or specialist?

Our Naturopaths commonly work alongside GPs and gastroenterologists, providing complementary care that addresses aspects conventional medicine may not target. We may recommend your GP conduct specific testing (such as coeliac disease screening) and we research all medications for contraindications before creating your Prescription for supplements or herbal medicines. We can provide reports to your referring practitioner with your permission.

7. What’s the difference between food intolerance testing and allergy testing?

Food intolerance testing measures delayed immune reactions (IgG and IgA antibodies) that cause chronic symptoms like bloating, headaches, and fatigue. These reactions occur hours or days after eating trigger foods. Allergy testing measures immediate IgE reactions causing symptoms like hives or anaphylaxis within minutes. Most digestive issues stem from intolerances rather than true allergies. Our Naturopaths can recommend your GP conduct allergy testing if needed, while we offer comprehensive intolerance testing at Brisbane Livewell Clinic.

8. Why is DNA methylation testing important for gut health?

DNA methylation testing identifies genetic variations affecting how your body processes nutrients, eliminates toxins, and regulates inflammation, all critical for gut healing. This testing reveals whether you need specific forms of vitamins (like methylated B12 or folate), your detoxification capacity, and your genetic predisposition to certain digestive conditions. Your Naturopath uses this information to create your Prescription with precisely what your body needs genetically, not generic protocols.

9. What if I’ve tried everything and nothing has worked?

Many patients come to Brisbane Livewell Clinic after unsuccessful treatment elsewhere. Often, previous approaches didn’t identify the underlying cause, treating symptoms instead of root dysfunction. Our comprehensive testing frequently reveals undiagnosed issues like SIBO, specific food intolerances, parasites, or methylation problems that explain treatment-resistant symptoms. Our Naturopaths specialise in complex cases and have access to advanced testing not available through standard pathways.

10. How much do gut health consultations and testing cost?

Initial Naturopath consultations (up to 60 minutes) are $220. Follow-up consultations vary based on duration. Testing costs depend on which panels your Naturopath recommends. Your Naturopath discusses testing costs during your initial consultation before you purchase. Supplements and herbal medicines from our dispensary are additional.