Personalized Nutrient Testing & Support in Los Angeles, CA
Nutrient deficiencies are common in people with digestive conditions and can cause fatigue, weakened immunity, poor healing, and many other symptoms. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, our physicians test for and correct nutrient deficiencies with personalized recommendations based on your labs, symptoms, and digestive health, while also treating the reasons those deficiencies developed.
Request an AppointmentWhy Nutrient Deficiencies Are Common in Digestive Conditions
Even a healthy diet cannot nourish you fully if your digestive system is not absorbing nutrients properly. Inflammation, bacterial overgrowth, low stomach acid, reduced digestive enzymes, damage to the intestinal lining, and certain medications can all interfere with absorption. Over time, this can lead to deficiencies that affect energy, immunity, mood, bone health, and healing.
Nutrients We Commonly Evaluate
- Iron and ferritin: low levels are linked to fatigue, hair loss, and shortness of breath and may signal bleeding or malabsorption
- Vitamin B12 and folate: often low with SIBO, gastritis, or long-term acid-suppressing medication
- Vitamin D: important for immunity, bone health, and gut barrier function
- Magnesium: supports muscle function, sleep, bowel regularity, and energy production
- Zinc: essential for immune function and repair of the intestinal lining
- Omega-3 fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants: support inflammation control and cellular health
Testing and Personalized Recommendations
Your doctor may recommend laboratory testing based on your symptoms, diet, and medical history. Results are interpreted in the context of your digestive health to determine whether a deficiency is due to low intake, poor absorption, increased needs, or loss. You then receive specific guidance on which nutrients to take, the best forms and doses, and how long to take them. Recommendations are coordinated with your customized nutrition plan and, when helpful, genomic decoding that reveals how your genetics affect nutrient needs.
Treating the Cause, Not Just the Deficiency
Replacing a nutrient without addressing why it became low often leads to recurring problems. Our physicians also treat the underlying cause, whether it is bacterial overgrowth, intestinal inflammation, celiac disease, or low stomach acid, through our functional medicine approach and diagnostic services.
Professional-Grade Products and Follow-Up
We recommend high-quality nutraceutical supplements from trusted manufacturers, which patients can order online. Follow-up testing confirms that levels are improving so your plan can be adjusted or simplified. Learn more about our main Personalized Nutrients service and our full range of nutritional services.
Nutrient Testing FAQs
What are signs of a nutrient deficiency?
Common signs include fatigue, weakness, hair thinning, brittle nails, frequent infections, muscle cramps, numbness or tingling, mood changes, and slow healing.
Can digestive problems cause deficiencies even if I eat well?
Yes. Conditions such as SIBO, celiac disease, colitis, and gastritis can prevent your body from absorbing nutrients even from a healthy diet.
Do acid-reducing medications affect nutrient levels?
Long-term use of acid-suppressing medications can reduce absorption of vitamin B12, iron, magnesium, and calcium. Your doctor may recommend monitoring.
How are nutrient deficiencies diagnosed?
Most deficiencies are identified with blood tests, interpreted alongside your symptoms and digestive health.
How long does it take to correct a deficiency?
Many deficiencies improve within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the nutrient, the severity, and whether the underlying cause has been treated.
Should I take supplements without testing?
Testing helps avoid taking unnecessary supplements or the wrong doses. Some nutrients, such as iron and vitamin D, can be harmful in excess.
Find Out What Your Body Needs in Los Angeles, CA
Get personalized nutrient testing and recommendations from our team. Call LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition at (310) 289-8000 to schedule your consultation.