Evidence-Based Alternative and Integrative Medicine
Millions of people turn to alternative therapies seeking solutions that conventional medicine hasn’t provided. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, we blend the best of conventional medicine with evidence-based alternative approaches—creating integrative protocols that produce superior outcomes.
Rather than dismissing natural remedies, we evaluate them scientifically, integrate them strategically, and monitor their effectiveness rigorously.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Integrative Medicine?
Integrative medicine combines conventional medical approaches with evidence-based complementary and alternative therapies. It represents a “both/and” rather than “either/or” philosophy—using the most effective tools from all evidence-based systems.
Common Alternative Therapies We Employ:
- Herbal Medicine – Evidence-based botanical compounds for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and digestive support
- Nutritional Supplementation – Targeted supplements addressing specific deficiencies and supporting healing
- Dietary Protocols – Specialized elimination diets, low-FODMAP, elemental diets, and food-as-medicine approaches
- Mind-Body Medicine – Stress management, meditation, yoga, and addressing the gut-brain-stress axis
- Acupuncture and TCM – Traditional Chinese medicine principles supporting digestive function and balance
- Homeopathy – When evidence supports, we recommend homeopathic preparations
- Naturopathic Principles – Harnessing the body’s inherent healing capacity through natural means
Why Alternative Approaches Often Succeed Where Conventional Medicine Fails
Conventional medicine excels at acute illness and emergency care but sometimes struggles with chronic digestive conditions. Why?
Conventional limitations:
– Medications suppress symptoms but don’t heal the underlying dysfunction
– Limited time for detailed assessment and lifestyle counseling
– Focus on diagnosis rather than root-cause identification
– Assumption that all patients need identical treatments
Alternative strengths:
– Emphasizes supporting the body’s natural healing capacity
– Uses whole systems and individualized approaches
– Addresses root causes rather than just symptoms
– Often produces fewer side effects than medications
– Engages patients as active participants in healing
The best approach often integrates both—using conventional diagnostics and medications when needed, while emphasizing natural, functional approaches whenever possible.
Evidence-Based Herbal and Botanical Support
We recommend herbs and botanicals only when scientific evidence supports their efficacy:
For SIBO and Dysbiosis:
– Oregano oil – antimicrobial properties targeting pathogenic bacteria
– Berberine – supports microbiome balance
– Slippery elm – soothes and protects intestinal lining
For Inflammation and Immune Support:
– Turmeric (curcumin) – powerful anti-inflammatory
– Ginger – reduces inflammation and supports digestion
– Bone broth – collagen supports intestinal integrity
For Digestive Support:
– Digestive bitters – stimulate digestive secretions
– Licorice root – soothes and protects stomach lining
– Fennel and caraway – reduce gas and bloating
For Stress and Gut-Brain Axis:
– Ashwagandha – adaptogenic support for stress
– Rhodiola – supports resilience and energy
– Passionflower – calms anxiety-driven GI symptoms
All recommendations are individualized based on your specific condition and verified against current scientific literature.
Holistic Whole-Person Approach
True integrative medicine addresses the whole person:
- Physical health – nutrition, supplements, procedures, medications
- Mental health – stress management, emotional processing, resilience building
- Spiritual health – meaning, purpose, connection, values alignment
- Social health – relationships, community, support systems
- Environmental health – toxic exposure reduction, sleep optimization, movement
When all these dimensions are addressed, healing accelerates dramatically.
Schedule Your Integrative Medicine Consultation
Experience the power of combining the best conventional medicine with evidence-based natural approaches tailored to your unique needs.
Request an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Are alternative therapies safe?
Safety depends on the specific therapy, how it’s used, and who’s providing it. Some alternative therapies are very safe; others carry risks. We only recommend therapies with established safety profiles and proven efficacy. We also monitor for interactions with medications and discontinue any therapy not producing benefit.
Will alternative therapies work better than medication?
For some conditions and some people, yes. For others, no. The best approach often combines both—medications providing rapid symptom relief while natural therapies address root causes. We recommend whichever approach is most effective for your specific situation.
How do I know if an alternative therapy is legitimate?
Look for practitioners with rigorous training, use of evidence-based approaches, willingness to monitor outcomes, and integration with conventional medicine. Be cautious of anyone claiming to cure everything or dismissing all conventional medicine. The best practitioners use both systems.
Are supplements regulated?
Supplements are regulated less strictly than medications in the US. We work with professional-grade supplement manufacturers meeting strict quality standards and third-party testing. We avoid over-the-counter supplements with questionable quality control.
Can I use alternative therapies alongside my current medications?
Usually yes, but some interactions are possible. We review all your medications and supplements to ensure safety. Inform all your healthcare providers about everything you’re taking so they can monitor for interactions.
How long before alternative therapies work?
Timeline varies. Some therapies produce rapid effects (within days); others take weeks or months. We establish realistic expectations and monitor progress regularly. If a therapy isn’t producing benefit within the expected timeframe, we adjust the approach.