Take The Gut Health Assessment To Discover Your Gut Type and Take the First Step Toward Better Health
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Why Gut Health Matters
Your gut health influences more than just digestion—it affects your energy levels, immune system, and overall well-being. Many individuals experience symptoms like bloating, fatigue, or irregular bowel movements without understanding the underlying cause.
Our Gut Health Assessment is designed to help you identify your specific gut type, providing clarity and direction for effective treatment strategies.
The 5 Gut Types Explained
Explore our holistic wellness pathways crafted for your health journey.
The Inflamed Gut
Do you feel like everything you eat sets something off in your body?
If so, you might have an Inflamed Gut one of the most common patterns we see in our clinic.
This gut type is often linked to a condition called leaky gut, where tiny holes in the gut lining let things through that shouldn’t be there—like undigested food, toxins, and bacteria. Your immune system sees these as threats, and the result is inflammation that spreads throughout your body.
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What’s Likely Happening Inside:
Your gut lining has been worn down—by stress, medications, poor diet, or past infections. It’s no longer a tight barrier. Instead, it’s letting inflammatory triggers leak into your bloodstream and setting off alarm bells in your immune system. That’s why you might see blood markers like: High Homocysteine – linked to chronic inflammation High Basophils – can point to food sensitivities and histamine issues.
What You Might Be Feeling:
Bloating or discomfort after meals
Brain fog, low energy, or feeling “puffy”
Skin issues like rashes, eczema, or acne
Joint pain or stiffness
Symptoms that flare up during stress
Reactions to common foods like gluten, dairy, or fried foods
Feeling like “everything I eat causes a problem"
What You Can Do About It:
-Remove the Offenders. Start a short-term elimination of gluten, dairy, sugar, and seed oils. These are the biggest triggers for a leaky gut.
-Repair the Gut Lining. Look for gut-healing support with ingredients like Saccharomyces Boulardii, Fish Oil, Glutathione, Turmeric, and Apple Cider Vinegar. These help seal the gut lining.
-Run the Right Labs. If you haven’t already, ask your provider to check your homocysteine, CRP, and basophils. These can confirm inflammation and guide your next steps.
Bottom line:
An inflamed gut isn’t just a digestion problem—it’s an immune problem. But with the right strategy, it can be calmed and healed.
The Overfed Gut
Always craving sugar? Bloated after carbs? Feel worse when you eat “normal” food?
You might be dealing with an Overfed Gut —a gut environment overloaded with the wrong kinds of microbes.
This usually means Candida (a type of yeast) or bad bacteria have taken over. They thrive on sugar, processed carbs, and even stress. Once they get too cozy, they mess with your digestion, your mood, and your immune system.
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What’s Likely Happening Inside:
There’s an overgrowth happening in your gut—too much yeast or bacteria feeding off sugar and throwing everything out of balance. They produce toxins and gas that cause bloating and fatigue. These issues often show up after rounds of antibiotics, high-stress seasons, or diets high in sugar and refined carbs. Your labs may show: High WBC (white blood cells) = recent infection High neutrophils / low lymphocytes = possible bacterial overgrowth High Homocysteine = inflammation triggered by Candida
What You Might Be Feeling:
Intense cravings for sugar, bread, or pasta
Bloating or foggy-headedness after meals A white or fuzzy - - coating on your tongue
Recurring fungal infections (like yeast, athlete’s foot, or dandruff)
Symptoms that slightly improve when you cut sugar
Diarrhea or loose stools
A general feeling of sluggishness or heaviness after eating.
What’s Likely Happening Inside:
There’s an overgrowth happening in your gut—too much yeast or bacteria feeding off sugar and throwing everything out of balance. They produce toxins and gas that cause bloating and fatigue. These issues often show up after rounds of antibiotics, high-stress seasons, or diets high in sugar and refined carbs. Your labs may show: High WBC (white blood cells) = recent infection High neutrophils / low lymphocytes = possible bacterial overgrowth High Homocysteine = inflammation triggered by Candida.
What You Can Do About It:
-Starve the Overgrowth. Cut sugar, bread, alcohol, and starchy carbs for 10–14 days. This removes their food source.
-Add Natural Antimicrobials. Herbal supports like oregano oil, caprylic acid, and berberine can help — but use them under guidance, especially if your liver or detox pathways need support.
-Rebuild Your Gut Terrain. Use spore-based or soil-based probiotics to crowd out bad microbes and bring back balance.
Bottom line:
When your gut is overfed with the wrong stuff, the wrong microbes take over. But the good news? You can reset it. Fast.
The Starving Gut
Do you eat “clean” but still feel tired, bloated, or undernourished?
That’s a classic sign of a Starving Gut— where the problem isn’t what you’re eating, but how well your body is breaking it down.
This gut type usually comes from low stomach acid and sluggish enzyme activity. When that happens, your body struggles to digest protein, absorb nutrients, and keep your digestive system moving.
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What’s Likely Happening Inside:
Your stomach acid is too low, and digestion is stalling. That means proteins don’t get broken down properly, nutrients like B12, iron, and zinc don’t absorb well, and your gut microbiome suffers. Your bloodwork may show: Low total protein (<6.9 g/dL) Possible low B12, iron, or zinc In some chronic cases, low WBC
What You Might Be Feeling:
Heartburn or a heavy, full feeling after meals.
Fatigue after eating.
Undigested food in your stool.
Brittle nails, dry skin, or hair loss.
Frequent burping or belching.
Low appetite, especially in the morning.
Trouble gaining weight — or feeling weak despite eating well.
What You Can Do About It:
-Support Stomach Acid Ask your provider about digestive bitters or Betaine HCl with pepsin to help your body restart proper acid production.
-Slow Down & Chew Your Food Rushed meals = stressed digestion. Take a few deep breaths before eating, and chew each bite 20–30 times to reduce the load on your stomach.
-Focus on Easily Digestible Proteins Use bone broth, soups, and well-cooked meats. These are easier for a low-acid stomach to handle while your gut heals.
Bottom line:
Even the healthiest food won’t help if your body can’t absorb it. You have to reignite your digestion before you can truly refuel.
The Burned Out Gut
Feel anxious, wired but tired, and like your gut symptoms flare with stress? You might be dealing with a Burnt-Out Gut — a gut that’s been hijacked by chronic stress.
When the gut-brain connection breaks down, it’s not just in your head. Your nervous system directly impacts your digestion, immunity, and ability to heal. Over time, your body stays stuck in survival mode... and your gut pays the price.
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What’s Likely Happening Inside:
Your body’s stress response is dysregulated. This suppresses immune function, disrupts gut motility, and breaks down your gut lining over time — leading to IBS-like symptoms, food sensitivities, and long-term inflammation. Your labs may show: Low WBC + high lymphocytes = chronic viral pattern High homocysteine = inflammation from chronic stress Poor immune response or slow recovery
What You Might Be Feeling:
Tired but can’t relax.
Gut issues flare when you’re stressed.
Wake up between 1–3am and can’t fall back asleep.
Anxiety, panic, or mood swings.
Low motivation or mental burnout.
Poor recovery after illness.
No appetite in the morning.
Reliant on caffeine to function.
What You Can Do About It:
Reset Your Nervous System (Daily) Try 5 minutes of deep breathing, humming, vagus nerve massage, or cold exposure to calm your gut-brain axis.
-Give Up Coffee for 7 Days It’s tough, but it gives your adrenals a break and resets your natural cortisol rhythm. Add Gut-
-Calming Adaptogens Herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, or holy basil can help your body respond more calmly to stress — and support gut healing in the process.
Bottom line:
If you’ve been “pushing through” for too long, your gut is likely paying the price. You can’t just fix the gut — you have to calm the whole system.
The Sluggish Gut
Feel backed up, bloated, or like your digestion has just… slowed down? You might be dealing with a Sluggish Gut— a digestive system that’s moving too slowly and letting waste, toxins, and bacteria build up inside. This isn’t just about constipation. When food sits too long in your gut, it ferments, stagnates, and reabsorbs — making you feel tired, puffy, toxic, and foggy.
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What’s Likely Happening Inside:
When motility slows down, your detox pathways back up. Toxins and waste products that should exit the body get reabsorbed. Bacteria that thrive in stagnant environments can overgrow, further slowing things down and triggering inflammation. Your labs may show: Low WBC + high neutrophils = chronic bacterial activity Signs of poor hydration or low fiber intake
What You Might Be Feeling:
Constipation or the “never fully emptied” feeling
Gas that smells awful
Bloating that gets worse later in the day
Bad breath, headaches, or a “toxic” feeling
Low energy and slow metabolism
Relief only after using laxatives or magnesium
Poor digestion when dehydrated or traveling
What You Can Do About It:
-Hydrate Like It’s Your Job. Aim to drink at least half your body weight (in ounces) every day. Example: 150 lbs = 75 oz water.
-Use Motility Helpers. Add magnesium citrate or vitamin C to stimulate movement. Herbs like ginger or bitters can help too.
-Increase Daily Fiber & Movement Start with chia seeds, flax, cooked greens, or a fiber supplement. Gentle daily movement (even walking) helps restore flow.
Bottom line:
If your gut is stuck in slow-mo, toxins and waste are likely piling up. But with the right tools, you can get things moving again — and feel lighter, clearer, and more energized.
Testimonials
Sarah Shively
I was struggling with acne, poor bowel movement, sudden weight gain, and extreme fatigue and had been to my regular Doctor several times. After running a few labs they just told me I’m getting older or maybe I’m depressed. So I found Twin Oaks Health through a google search. Dr Sauer and my health coach listened to me and within a few weeks of starting the program I was seeing improvements with everything. I have learned so much and feel so much better! It was so nice to finally have someone listen to me and hear what I was saying. I highly recommend Dr Sauer and his team, especially if you are sick of feeling crappy and want to get to the root of your problem.
Christine Welsand
I contacted Twin Oaks after I had seen 4 medical professionals (including an allergist) about a rash I had for months. No one could determine what was causing it. After following Twin Oaks protocols, comprehensive blood tests and diet changes, it was determined that I had a severe gluten allergy and other food sensitivities that were causing the rash and negatively impacting my health. Western medicine only wanted to treat symptoms with medications and was not helping me determine the underlying problem causing the issues. I am very satisfied with the services I received from Twin Oaks. My health coach Lori was amazingly supportive throughout the process!
Maria Moore
Working with Twin Oaks has been a truly encouraging start to my long-term health journey. For years, I struggled with symptoms that didn’t make sense—my labs always came back “normal,” but I still didn’t feel well. The testing they did finally gave me real answers. They identified underlying issues that had been missed before and gave me a detailed, step-by-step plan to support my body and begin healing.
I’ve already noticed real improvements—less inflammation, more stable energy, and better digestion. I know healing takes time, and I’m still at the beginning of this process, but for the first time in a long time, I feel hopeful. Twin Oaks has made this feel manageable by breaking everything down into doable steps and offering support along the way. I’m committed to sticking with this, and I’m so thankful to have a team like this walking with me.
FAQs
Answers to Your Wellness Queries at Twin Oaks Health
What is Functional Medicine?
Functional Medicine is a patient-centered approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of health issues, rather than just treating symptoms. It combines traditional medical practices with evidence-based alternative therapies to achieve optimal health.
How is Functional Medicine different from conventional medicine?
Functional Medicine emphasizes personalized treatment based on a person’s unique history, lifestyle, and genetic makeup. Unlike conventional medicine, which often focuses on symptom management, Functional Medicine aims to understand and resolve the root causes of disease.
What conditions can Functional Medicine help with?
Functional Medicine can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including autoimmune disorders, thyroid disorders, digestive issues, hormone imbalances, chronic fatigue, mental health conditions, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, problems with sleep and more. It’s particularly useful for chronic conditions that don’t respond well to traditional treatments and people looking to regain their health naturally.
What should I expect during my first visit?
During your initial consultation, the practitioner will conduct a comprehensive health assessment, including reviewing your medical history, lifestyle, diet, symptoms, and labs taken in the past. This process helps create a personalized health plan.
Do you take insurance?
It’s not that Functional Medicine doesn’t accept insurance. It’s that health insurance does not cover proactive care. Sadly health insurance has progressed to the point of only paying for pills and procedures. We have helped clients of all ages and life situations and for most people, there are options for people to get the help they need.
How long does it take to see results with Functional Medicine?
The timeline for seeing results varies by individual and condition. Some people notice improvements within weeks, while others may take several months to experience significant changes. Functional Medicine is focused on long-term healing, so gradual, sustainable progress is typical.
What kind of lab tests do you use?
We use a combination of standard and specialized lab tests, including hormone panels, gut microbiome analysis, comprehensive blood and urine panels, heavy metal, mold, environmental toxins, and inflammation markers. These tests help us get a detailed understanding of your health and guide our personalized health plan.
Can Functional Medicine help with weight loss?
Yes, Functional Medicine can be very effective for weight management by addressing underlying issues like hormone imbalances, thyroid dysfunction, nutrient deficiencies, and gut health. We create individualized plans that support healthy, sustainable weight loss.
How often do I need to come in for appointments?
Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled every 2 weeks, but this can vary based on your condition and health plan. In the beginning, visits may be more frequent, with fewer appointments needed as your health improves.
Can Functional Medicine help with my energy levels?
Yes, addressing root causes like nutrient deficiencies, poor sleep, thyroid function, and stress can have a significant impact on energy levels. Many patients experience improved energy as their health improves through a Functional Medicine approach.
Are personalized Functional Medicine plans safe?
Yes, our personalized plans are safe and evidence-based. We use a combination of lifestyle interventions, nutritional support, and supplements. All plans are tailored to the individual and monitored closely for effectiveness and safety.
Do I need to make lifestyle changes as part of my plan?
Lifestyle changes are often part of Functional Medicine care, as factors like diet, stress, sleep, and exercise play a big role in health. Our team helps guide you on which changes to make to support your well-being.
What is the cost of a Functional Medicine consultation?
Our initial consultation fees cover a comprehensive health assessment and personalized health plan. We customize our care plans based on the individual’s goal and health history. Exact fees vary, and additional testing may incur extra costs.
Can Functional Medicine help if I’m already on medication?
Absolutely. We work with patients who are on medications and collaborate with their healthcare providers. Our goal is to support your body’s natural healing processes, which may reduce your dependency on medication over time, under medical supervision.
How can I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling our clinic, or booking online through our website. Our team will help you find a convenient time for your initial consultation.
Do you offer telemedicine or virtual appointments?
Yes, we offer telemedicine appointments for patients who cannot visit in person. Virtual consultations are a great option for follow-ups or if you live outside the local area.
How does Functional Medicine address mental health?
Functional Medicine takes a holistic approach to mental health, looking at diet, gut health, inflammation, hormone levels, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to issues like anxiety and depression. Addressing the issues often include nutrition, supplements, and stress management techniques.
Is Functional Medicine suitable for children?
Yes, Functional Medicine can be beneficial for children, especially those with chronic conditions like digestive issues, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune conditions, and more. Our practitioners take a gentle and customized approach to meet the needs of younger patients.
Will I need to take supplements as part of my plan?
Supplements are often recommended to correct deficiencies or support healing processes. Our team prescribes high-quality, evidence-based supplements tailored to your specific needs and closely monitors their use to ensure safety.
Can I use Functional Medicine as preventative care?
Absolutely. Functional Medicine focuses on optimizing health, making it ideal for those who want to prevent future health issues. We address lifestyle, diet, and potential risk factors to support long-term well-being.