A Functional Framework for Healing the Gut

The 5R Approach is a functional medicine framework used to address digestive dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and microbiome imbalance. It is often the foundation of a structured gut healing protocol and provides a step-by-step guide to restoring balance in the gastrointestinal system.

Each “R” represents a phase of support that builds upon the last, allowing your body to recover from chronic symptoms and re-establish digestive integrity.

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1. Remove

Identify and remove factors that are irritating or damaging to the gut lining and microbiome. This can include:

•    Inflammatory foods (gluten, dairy, sugar, seed oils)

•    Food sensitivities

•    Pathogens (like parasites, bacteria, yeast)

•    Toxins (environmental or chemical exposures)

•    Medications that may harm gut health (NSAIDs, PPIs, antibiotics)

Tools used: anti-inflammatory diets, elimination protocols, antimicrobial herbs, stool testing, food sensitivity evaluation.

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2. Replace

Support digestion by replacing what the body may no longer produce in adequate amounts due to stress, inflammation, or age. This includes:

•    Stomach acid (HCl)

•    Digestive enzymes

•    Bile support (ox bile or bitters)

This step ensures that food is being broken down properly so nutrients can be absorbed and fermentation or bloating is minimized.

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