Naturopathic Approach to Functional Dyspepsia: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Naturopathic Medicine
• Integrative Health

Background:

• Functional dyspepsia (FD) presents with symptoms like reflux, bloating, and pain, often managed with conventional therapies.
• Naturopathic therapies can complement conventional treatments by addressing underlying factors contributing to FD.
• Stress, poor eating habits, and diet impact digestive health, particularly in young adults.

Observation:

• A 25-year-old graduate student experienced FD symptoms including bloating, epigastric pain, flatulence, and reflux.
• Symptom onset correlated with increased academic stress, rushed eating, and reduced whole food intake.
• Physical exam revealed epigastric tenderness and hyperactive bowel sounds; Rome IV criteria for FD were met.

Findings:

• A naturopathic treatment plan included an elimination diet, apple cider vinegar, L-glutamine, and homeopathic remedies (UNDA #4, Nux vomica).
• The patient reported significant symptom improvement within one week and resolution of most symptoms within one month.
• Straining with stool was the only persistent symptom after one month of treatment.

Implications:

• Naturopathic approaches can provide substantial and timely symptom relief for functional dyspepsia.
• An effective naturopathic treatment plan for FD can be established in a single, brief patient visit.
• Patients adhering to naturopathic interventions may experience marked improvements in overall gastrointestinal function.