Eczema can be a real struggle, especially when lotions and creams just don’t cut it. But what if the answer goes deeper? Research shows a strong link between gut health and eczema. In her video, “A Functional Medicine Approach to Treating Eczema – The Gut-Skin Connection,” Dr. Julie Greenberg dives into how food sensitivities, gut bacteria imbalances, and inflammation impact eczema. She shares why targeting gut health through dietary shifts, testing, and natural treatments could be the missing piece for lasting relief.
So what is behind eczema?
Let’s Talk Inflammation
Eczema isn’t just one-size-fits-all; it’s a complex issue that shows up differently for everyone. What Dr. Greenberg explains (and what I’ve found, too) is that eczema is an immune response — your body’s way of saying something’s not right. And instead of just calming it down on the surface, what if we could tackle that inflammation at the root?
So… Is it Food?
For some, food can be a big trigger for eczema, especially things like dairy, wheat, and eggs. I know it sounds intense, but trying an elimination diet can actually give you answers about what might be setting off those flare-ups. Dr. Greenberg suggests cutting out potential irritants and adding in skin-loving foods like fiber-rich veggies and omega-3s to bring down inflammation. Because, who doesn’t want to eat their way to better skin?
The Gut Stuff: Leaky Gut & Dysbiosis
Your gut lining is supposed to be a strong barrier, but sometimes it becomes more like a leaky sieve. Things get through that shouldn’t, and it can mess with your immune system and cause skin issues like eczema. This “leaky gut” issue often comes hand-in-hand with something called dysbiosis, where the good and bad bacteria in your gut get out of balance. And what’s fascinating is that people with eczema often have low levels of certain good bacteria.
Testing, Testing: Is it Worth It?
Here’s where Dr. Greenberg’s approach gets practical. Instead of guessing, she recommends targeted gut tests like the GI-MAP or Organic Acid Test to actually see what’s going on. These tests can pick up on everything from bacteria to fungi that could be contributing to eczema. It’s a bit like getting a map of what your gut really needs, so you’re not throwing darts in the dark with treatments.
Treatment: One Step at a Time
Dr. Greenberg’s approach is all about phases. Think of it like taking small, purposeful steps. First, you might tackle harmful bacteria, like Staph or H. pylori. Then, you slowly reintroduce good bacteria with probiotics and prebiotics. It’s not a magic fix, but for many people, it’s the first real progress they’ve seen.
Healing is a Journey (I know, I know)
I won’t lie to you: gut health is a journey, not a quick fix. But by focusing on the root cause, instead of just treating the surface, you’re giving your skin a real chance to heal.
If you’re tired of the endless lotions and creams, I’ve been there. This gut-skin approach is different, and it could be what finally works for you.
Let’s dig deep, make it simple, and get back to feeling good in our skin.
Leave a Reply