Nutrition Myths, Gut Fixes, Natural Health Tips from a Doctor of Naturopathy
In this episode, Matt sits down with naturopathic doctor and primary care provider Kim Celmer to discuss the distinct approach naturopathic doctors (NDs) bring to patient care, addressing common misconceptions about complementary and alternative treatment modalities and explaining how NDs treat prevalent issues like digestive problems, food sensitivities, and nutrient deficiencies. They dive into the distinctions between food allergies and sensitivities and how NDs manage these through a holistic lens. Celmer provides practical advice on managing heartburn and other digestive concerns, along with insights on nutritional insufficiencies and the impact of common medications on gut health. This episode is a practical guide for anyone interested in a holistic approach to health.
Kim Celmer, ND, is a naturopathic doctor specializing in primary care. After earning her doctorate from Bastyr University, she completed a residency in naturopathic medicine at the Institute of Complementary Medicine in Seattle, focusing on integrative approaches to hormone health, digestive wellness, and chronic disease management.
Check out the links below for further information and/or reading about some of the things we discussed in this podcast episode. Note that we do not necessarily endorse or agree with the content of these readings, but present them as supplementary material that may deepen your understanding of the topic after you listen to our podcast. This list is in no way exhaustive, but it’s a good start!
Several years ago, this paper made the news for claiming that vitamin D supplementation was ineffective for improving musculoskeletal health. After analyzing 81 randomized controlled trials, the authors argued that vitamin D supplementation did not reduce fractures or falls, nor did it improve bone mineral density.
The health effects of vitamin D supplementation: evidence from human studies
This review summarizes recent randomized control trials on vitamin D supplementation such as the VITAL, ViDA, and DO-HEALTH trials. The authors suggest that vitamin D supplementation beyond normal levels does not present clear benefits, as it does not appear to impact global health, falls or fractures, or the incidence of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. They note, however, that vitamin D supplementation does improve conditions such as rickets and could be moderately beneficial for individuals suffering from vitamin D deficiency.
Considerations When Choosing Supplements
Kim notes in this episode that the costliest supplements are the ones that don't actually contain what they say they do and thus don’t work. So how do you figure out which supplements actually do what they say on the tin? This article provides a framework for choosing supplements, which includes assessing safety and efficacy, monitoring dosage, and taking note of a supplement’s chemical form.
Food allergy, intolerance, or sensitivity: What’s the difference, and why does it matter?
Kim discusses the importance of clearly differentiating between food allergies and sensitivities in this episode. This article discusses food intolerances, allergies, and sensitivities and how to distinguish between them. In short, food intolerances refer to an inability to digest specific foods; food allergies typically involve an allergic reaction such as breathing difficulty following consumption of food; and food sensitivities bring about symptoms, possibly as a result of an immune reaction, from eating certain foods.
Kim often recommends the tropical yeast Saccharomyces boulardii for reducing negative effects of antibiotic consumption on the gut microbiome. This paper reviews potential mechanisms of action as well as the evidence for the efficacy of S. boulardii as a biotherapeutic agent for addressing gastrointestinal issues.
