From Hospitalised with Gut Pain and Bloating to Healing from the Inside Out – in Just 6 Weeks
TL;DR
Client was stuck in a cycle of pain, bloating, and unexplained gut flares even after hospitalisation and all the tests
Gut testing revealed poor digestion, low enzymes, and gut-brain dysregulation
A personalised, root-cause plan focused on enzymes, polyphenols, hypnotherapy and dairy-free nutrition
In just 6 weeks, bloating and pain dropped from 8/10 to 1/10, and energy increased from 5/10 to 8/10
“I’m so appreciative of the work you’ve done with me - truly grateful.”
That’s what this client shared with me after just 6 weeks together.
But before that?
She was exhausted - physically and emotionally.
Bloating and gut pain every day
Pain that had sent her to the hospital but with no clear answers
Multiple tests, yet still stuck in unpredictable flare-up cycles
Tired of being told “everything looks normal” when it didn’t feel normal
She wanted someone to actually listen and help her connect the dots.
The Root Causes Were There, They Just Needed a New Lens
We started with a Holistic Health Consult, where I reviewed her symptoms, history, and past testing through a naturopathic lens. I also referred her for further functional testing to dig deeper.
Here’s what we uncovered:
Gut microbiome test (CoBiome):
Low digestive enzyme markers (indicating poor protein metabolism)
Oral bacteria showing up in the gut (a sign of low stomach acid)
Low GABA and butyrate-producing species (linked to visceral hypersensitivity and inflammation)
Ultimately, signs of gut-brain communication issues causing poor digestion and increased pain sensitivity.
Blood test review:
Confirmed lactose intolerance that had never been flagged
Once dairy was removed, bloating immediately reduced
The Plan: Gut Healing from the Inside Out
Instead of suppressing symptoms, we focused on restoring communication between the gut, brain, and immune system.
Her personalised plan included:
✔️ Gut-brain axis support: We integrated research-backed, gut-directed hypnotherapy to regulate pain perception and reduce anxiety-driven gut flares
✔️ Digestive support: Focused on bitter foods, warming meals, and digestive timing to improve enzyme release and stomach acid function
✔️ Dairy-free strategy: Easy swaps and gentle education made it sustainable, and symptoms rapidly improved
✔️ Anti-inflammatory, polyphenol-rich foods: To feed good gut bacteria and support repair
✔️ Nervous system regulation: Practical, realistic daily practices to calm the system and reduce reactivity
The Results in Just 6 Weeks?
✅ Bloating dropped to 1/10
✅ Pain reduced from 8/10 ➝ 1/10
✅ Energy increased from 5/10 ➝ 8/10
✅ Stress and reactivity improved
She finally felt in control of her body again.
Why Gut Pain Isn’t “Just in Your Head”
So many people with IBS, bloating, or pain are told it’s anxiety or that it’s “just something you have to live with.”
But when we actually test, assess, and listen, we see that there’s always a reason behind your symptoms.
Whether it’s:
Low stomach acid
Enzyme dysfunction
Gut-brain axis dysregulation
Microbiome imbalances
…it all matters.
And the body responds when you stop guessing and start giving it what it needs.
Ready to Decode Your Health?
If you’ve been told “it’s normal” or “just stress,” but you know something isn’t right, this is your sign to look deeper.
🩺 Decode Your Health is a virtual consult where we:
✔️ Review your test results and symptom patterns
✔️ Identify root causes
✔️ Create an actionable plan so you can feel empowered and supported
💚 New clients this month receive a $22 discount to get started.
I developed Decode Your Health for women like you, those who:
Are sick of chasing symptoms
Feel like their body is a mystery
Want real answers, not just “everything looks fine” from standard tests
When we look at your gut, your nutrients, and your lifestyle through a root-cause lens, everything starts to make sense.
Ready to Finally Get Answers?
For new clients this month, I’m offering a new client discount code to get started with Decode Your Health.
Or head straight to my booking page here.
You deserve more than “everything looks fine.” Let’s find what’s really going on and start healing from the root.
Let’s connect
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Looking for more?
Explore more on my website here: https://www.oliviagracenaturopathy.com.au
📍 In-person and online consultations available
📧 info@oliviagracenaturopathy.com.au
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Disclaimer:
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before starting new treatments or supplements.
This case study is based on one individual’s personal health journey and is shared for educational and informational purposes only. Outcomes may vary from person to person, and results are not guaranteed. Naturopathic care is highly individualised and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.
Your health concerns deserve a personalised assessment and tailored plan that considers your unique needs, history, and goals.
