SHA Spain is renowned for its cutting-edge wellness programmes using the latest scientific research and methods to create effective, goal-driven programmes. In this post, we spotlight the Gut Health programme, speaking with programme coordinator, Dr Amina Alani about what makes this programme so special and how it can benefit you.
Dr Amina has more than 15 years' experience in medical treatments with a speciality in psychosomatic medicine, which is based on the interconnectedness of the mind affecting the body. This is especially present in digestive disorders where stress and emotions can cause digestive upset, such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and gastric ulcers.
Why has SHA Spain launched this programme?
A third of the western population suffers from digestive disorders, and it is a common issue that guests coming to SHA present with. The main causes of poor gut health are stress and poor diet, which is prevalent in the western population due to many of us having hectic lifestyles and having to grab food on the go and eating whilst at our desks.
What is the aim of the Gut Health programme?
This programme aims to restore balance and proper functioning of the digestive system. This will give guests the kick start they need towards improved gut health, with improvements continuing when they return home through post-stay support. During their stay, guests will participate in a healthy cooking class to learn about how to prepare fermented foods so they can continue eating the healthy and delicious food they have enjoyed at SHA, which is also beneficial for maintaining good gut microbiota.
How is this achieved?
This focused programme has to be done in tandem with the detox programme. The detox element eliminates toxins and reduces inflammation, which can cause damage to the intestinal mucosa, and specialised treatments are used to repair the intestinal mucosa, which, when damaged, increases intolerances and sensitivities to certain foods. The gut microbiota is nurtured to bring it into balance, to prevent any overgrowth of bad gut bacteria, and to allow good gut bacteria to flourish.
The programme works on an integrative approach, taking into account the physical body, nutrition, emotional and energetic state. Intensive diagnostic tests are initially undertaken, such as the 220 food sensitivity test, nutrigenetics test, digestive profile and intestinal gut dysbiosis analysis. This provides the information needed for the consultants to curate your treatment protocol to tailor your specific gut health.
Some of the cutting-edge treatments used in this programme include intravenous liver detox sessions, micronutrition therapy, intestinal ozone therapy and infrared balance treatment. The way one eats is also addressed through stress management and emotional eating sessions to prevent poor food choices from being made due to emotions or stress.
Can I do the gut health programme without the detox programme?
It is important that the gut health programme is done together with the detox programme, as during the process of de-inflammation and intestinal regeneration, whilst balancing the microbiota, toxins are generated which must be safely eliminated through the detox treatments. This integrative method has been created to complement the detox programme for maximum results and to minimise any side effects from the toxin release.
What results would I see after undertaking the programme?
After the programme, the gut microbiota is greatly improved, allowing for easier weight loss, improved mood, greater mental clarity and memory. Digestive disorder symptoms are improved, if not eliminated, and food intolerances are reduced.
Who's the programme for?
Those with mild to more moderate digestive disorders, such as difficulties digesting, hyperacidity, IBS, bloating, flatulence and food intolerances.
In addition to digestive disorders, the programme is effective on chronic autoimmune diseases such as fibromyalgia, Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis as systemic inflammation is reduced on the programme.
Research has shown that gut health has a direct link to brain and mental health, so undertaking this programme is also highly beneficial for those suffering from depression, anxiety, insomnia, brain fog and mood disorders.
Are there any contraindications to the programme?
As this is a medical programme with advanced diagnostic testing, it can be adapted for most medical issues, even more serious digestive diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
What is the programme duration?
This programme can be done over 7,14, or 21 days in tandem with the detox programme. The longer the treatment duration, the greater the benefits. For those with intolerances, the 21-day programme is recommended to heal the gut at a deeper level, to reduce and even eliminate the intolerance.
If you want help with digestive issues, chronic autoimmune disorders or mood issues, talk to one of our wellbeing experts about arranging a stay at SHA Spain.
