I get bloating, excess gas, nausea, diarrhoea and constipation around my menstrual cycle. I’ve had a colonoscopy that came back clear. Should I request more tests? 

We always recommend that you get as much testing as possible from the NHS, but that can sometimes be a challenge.

For instance, right now there are only four units in the NHS in England that test for SIBO. Based on your symptoms, SIBO testing would be helpful. 

One of our Gut Health Tests would be helpful as well, and there are other things to consider, including liver function and detoxification.

Chronic gut issues are both a symptom and a cause of leaky gut, too.

The longer the gut is leaky, the more burden is placed on the liver, which starts to get congested and becomes compromised. That can then lead to hormonal imbalances because your liver detoxifies and helps to eliminate used hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.

Gut health, liver function and hormone balance are all intricately connected, so you need a holistic approach.

We recommend getting as much help as you can from your doctor, and coming to us for any extra support that you need.