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Dr. Shustina is an incredibly knowledgeable doctor who truly takes time to find root cause.
RG
Rochel Gordon
Condition · Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Chronic abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, and unexplained weight loss aren’t just digestive issues—they may signal Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), a complex group of chronic immune-mediated conditions affecting 1.6 million Americans and increasing rapidly worldwide. Research reveals that IBD, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and microscopic colitis, involves significant gut microbiome dysbiosis, with patients showing dramatically different microbial communities compared to healthy individuals. Our comprehensive approach addresses the underlying immune dysfunction and gut microbiome imbalances through targeted interventions that go beyond symptom suppression to support long-term remission and healing.
What Exactly Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a group of chronic immune-mediated inflammatory conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, resulting from complex interactions between genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, immune dysfunction, and gut microbiome dysbiosis. It typically manifests in young adults and teens, usually involving a precipitating cause such as an emotional trauma, frequent antibiotics, or an inflammatory diet. Unlike IBS, IBD involves actual tissue inflammation and damage that can be seen on imaging and endoscopy. The condition occurs when immune system cells in the GI tract mistakenly attack healthy tissue, creating chronic inflammation that disrupts normal digestive function. The gut microbiome plays a central role, with IBD patients showing reduced microbial diversity, decreased beneficial bacteria (especially butyrate-producing species), and increased pathogenic organisms that perpetuate inflammation and compromise intestinal barrier function.
Types of IBD and Their Characteristics
IBD encompasses several distinct conditions, each with unique patterns of inflammation, anatomical involvement, and treatment considerations requiring personalized management approaches.
| Type | Location and Pattern | Common Symptoms | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crohn’s Disease | Can affect any part of GI tract; patchy, transmural inflammation | Abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, malabsorption (especially B12) | May cause strictures, fistulas; requires comprehensive nutritional support |
| Ulcerative Colitis | Affects colon and rectum; continuous mucosal inflammation starting from rectum | Bloody diarrhea, urgency, rectal bleeding, left-sided abdominal pain | Increased colon cancer risk; often responds well to microbiome interventions |
| Microscopic Colitis | Large intestine; inflammation visible only under microscope | Chronic watery diarrhea, normal-appearing colonoscopy | Includes collagenous and lymphocytic subtypes; often diet-responsive |
| Indeterminate Colitis | Features of both Crohn’s and UC; confined to colon | Variable symptoms combining aspects of both conditions | Requires careful monitoring and individualized treatment approach |
Why IBD Impacts More Than Digestive Health
IBD creates systemic effects throughout the body due to chronic inflammation, malabsorption, and the gut’s central role in immune function and microbiome health. The compromised intestinal barrier allows bacterial endotoxins and inflammatory mediators to enter systemic circulation, contributing to fatigue, joint pain, skin problems, and increased infection risk. Malabsorption of essential nutrients—particularly vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, and fat-soluble vitamins—affects energy production, bone health, immune function, and neurological health. The chronic inflammatory state also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, mood disorders, and certain cancers, while the psychological stress of living with unpredictable symptoms significantly impacts mental health and quality of life.
Common Signs of IBD Include
Primary Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Persistent abdominal pain and cramping
- Chronic diarrhea, often with blood or mucus (especially UC)
- Urgent need to defecate with frequent bowel movements
- Rectal bleeding and blood in stool
- Unintentional weight loss and poor appetite
- Nausea, vomiting, and food sensitivities
Malabsorption and Nutritional Symptoms:
- Fatigue and general malaise from nutrient deficiencies
- Iron-deficiency anemia from chronic blood loss
- Vitamin B12 deficiency (particularly in Crohn’s disease)
- Vitamin D deficiency affecting bone health
- Poor wound healing and increased infection susceptibility
Extraintestinal Manifestations:
- Joint pain, swelling, and arthritis-like symptoms
- Skin rashes, sores, and inflammatory skin conditions
- Eye inflammation, irritation, and vision problems
- Fever and night sweats during flares
- Growth delays in children and adolescents
Systemic and Constitutional Symptoms:
- Chronic fatigue and decreased energy levels
- Mood changes, anxiety, and depression
- Sleep disturbances from pain and frequent bathroom visits
- Reduced exercise tolerance and physical limitations
- Social withdrawal due to symptom unpredictability
Diagnostic Options at Whole Gut Health
Comprehensive IBD evaluation involves both conventional assessment of inflammation and tissue damage, combined with functional evaluation of underlying immune dysfunction and microbiome imbalances. At Whole Gut Health, we do a deep dive into a patient’s history including childhood experiences, diet, lifestyle, and stressors to get a clear picture of the individual and the root cause of the condition. We also use diagnostics to develop personalized treatment protocols that address root causes.
Testing options may include:
Conventional IBD Assessment including colonoscopy with biopsy, inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), and imaging studies to evaluate disease extent and severity. We no longer do endoscopic procedures at Whole Gut Health, but have a network of proficient Gastroenterologists who will do the necessary procedures on our behalf.
Applied Kinesiology (muscle testing) to help determine precise dietary and supplement regimens
Comprehensive Microbiome Analysis to assess bacterial diversity, beneficial vs. pathogenic bacteria ratios, and specific dysbiosis patterns associated with IBD.
Advanced Inflammatory Markers including cytokine panels, immune function assessment, and specialized inflammatory bowel disease markers.
Comprehensive Nutritional Assessment including vitamins B12, D, iron studies, and evaluation for malabsorption-related deficiencies.
Functional Lab Work including oxidative stress markers, methylation status, and detoxification capacity evaluation.
We customize diagnostic protocols based on your IBD type, disease severity, and treatment goals to ensure comprehensive evaluation and optimal intervention planning.
Our approach
Why Whole Gut Health is different
At Whole Gut Health, we go beyond conventional symptom management and traditional functional medicine protocols. We trust your body's innate ability to heal itself when given the right support.
In Dr. Shustina's many years of practice, she has seen that many digestive diseases have their root cause in emotional traumas and unhealed wounds. When these underlying causes are healed, the body can heal from the inside out in a lasting way.
We focus on the mind-gut connection, incorporating energy healing techniques, personalized nutrition that evolves as you heal, and integrative approaches addressing mind, body, and spirit. If this resonates with you, contact our office to schedule your consultation and take the first step on your healing journey.
Our IBD Management Approach
Our Three-Phase IBD Healing Protocol Includes:
Phase 1 — Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
- Comprehensive evaluation of IBD type, disease activity, and inflammatory burden including evaluation of previous medical records if appropriate
- Evaluation of root causes going back to childhood or onset of disease
- Detailed analysis of gut microbiome composition and immune function if required
- Stress and nervous system dysfunction amplifying inflammatory responses
- Environmental triggers including diet, stress, and toxin exposure
- Dietary causes of inflammation
- Medication effects on microbiome and immune system
- Stress and Nervous system Regulation: Using cutting edge energy medicine and frequency healing techniques as well as targeted mindfulness and consciousness healing approaches we address the mind-body connection driving inflammation.
Phase 2 — Targeted Intervention
- Nutritional deficiencies affecting immune function and healing capacity
- Specific dysbiosis patterns and pathogenic bacterial overgrowth
- Organ function and motility is addressed with manual therapies such as visceral manipulation and cranial osteopathy
- Immune System Support: Nervous system regulation techniques and immune-balancing strategies to reduce inflammatory triggers
- Microbiome Restoration: Comprehensive protocols using targeted probiotics, prebiotics, and elimination of pathogenic bacteria to restore healthy microbial balance
Phase 3 — Long-Term Remission and Maintenance
- Anti-Inflammatory Protocols: Natural anti-inflammatory compounds, specialized and customized dietary plans sand immune-modulating strategies
- Gut Barrier Healing: Targeted nutrients and compounds to restore intestinal barrier integrity and reduce systemic inflammatory burden
- Nutritional Repletion: Comprehensive supplementation to address malabsorption-related deficiencies and support healing processes
- Sustained Microbiome Health: Long-term protocols for maintaining optimal gut microbial balance and preventing dysbiosis recurrence
- Ongoing Nutritional Support: Maintenance strategies for optimal nutrient status and absorption
- Lifestyle Integration: Comprehensive stress management, sleep optimization, and dietary strategies for sustained remission
- Regular Monitoring: Ongoing assessment of inflammatory markers, microbiome health, and nutritional status
Expert-Led, Personalized Care
Dr. Alexandra Shustina is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist specializing in complex digestive disorders, gut health, and the gut–brain connection. Drawing from both conventional gastroenterology and integrative medicine, she takes a comprehensive approach to uncovering the underlying factors contributing to illness and guides patients toward lasting wellness.
At Whole Gut Health, every patient receives highly personalized care rooted in a deep understanding of digestive health, nutrition, the gut microbiome, and the interconnected systems that influence overall well-being. By combining evidence-based medicine with a thoughtful, individualized approach, we help patients move beyond symptom management and create a clear path toward long-term healing and vitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions, answered
How is IBD diagnosed and evaluated?
+
Comprehensive evaluation involves multiple assessment approaches:
Conventional IBD Assessment
- Colonoscopy with biopsy to evaluate disease extent and severity
- Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and imaging studies
Comprehensive Microbiome Analysis
- Assesses bacterial diversity and specific dysbiosis patterns
Advanced Inflammatory Markers
- Cytokine panels and immune function assessment
Nutritional Assessment
- Vitamins B12, D, iron studies, malabsorption evaluation
Diagnostic protocols are customized based on each patient’s individual needs.
What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
+
IBD is a group of chronic immune-mediated inflammatory conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, resulting from interactions between genetic susceptibility, environmental factors, immune dysfunction, and gut microbiome dysbiosis. Unlike IBS, IBD involves actual tissue inflammation and damage that can be seen on imaging and endoscopy, with immune system cells mistakenly attacking healthy tissue.
What are the different types of IBD?
+
Crohn's Disease
- Location and pattern: Can affect any part of GI tract; patchy, transmural inflammation
- Common symptoms: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, malabsorption (especially B12)
- May cause strictures, fistulas; requires comprehensive nutritional support
Ulcerative Colitis
- Location and pattern: Affects colon and rectum; continuous mucosal inflammation starting from rectum
- Common symptoms: Bloody diarrhea, urgency, rectal bleeding, left-sided abdominal pain
- Increased colon cancer risk; often responds well to microbiome interventions
Microscopic Colitis
- Location and pattern: Large intestine; inflammation visible only under microscope
- Common symptoms: Chronic watery diarrhea, normal-appearing colonoscopy
- Includes collagenous and lymphocytic subtypes; often diet-responsive
Indeterminate Colitis
- Location and pattern: Features of both Crohn's and UC; confined to colon
- Common symptoms: Variable symptoms combining aspects of both conditions
- Requires careful monitoring and individualized treatment approach
What are the common signs and symptoms of IBD?
+
Primary GI Symptoms: Persistent abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea (often bloody), urgent bowel movements, rectal bleeding, weight loss, nausea
Malabsorption Symptoms: Fatigue from nutrient deficiencies, iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin B12 and D deficiency, poor wound healing
Extraintestinal Manifestations: Joint pain and arthritis, skin rashes, eye inflammation, fever, growth delays in children
Systemic Symptoms: Chronic fatigue, mood changes, sleep disturbances, reduced exercise tolerance, social withdrawal
How is IBD diagnosed?
+
Comprehensive evaluation involves multiple assessment approaches:
Conventional IBD Assessment
- Colonoscopy with biopsy to evaluate disease extent and severity
- Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and imaging studies
Comprehensive Microbiome Analysis
- Assesses bacterial diversity and specific dysbiosis patterns
Advanced Inflammatory Markers
- Cytokine panels and immune function assessment
Nutritional Assessment
- Vitamins B12, D, iron studies, malabsorption evaluation
Food Sensitivity Testing
- Identifies dietary triggers that may exacerbate inflammation
Intestinal Permeability Assessment
- Evaluates gut barrier function
Diagnostic protocols are customized based on IBD type and disease severity.
What does IBD treatment involve?
+
Our comprehensive three-phase IBD healing protocol includes:
Phase 1: Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
- Comprehensive evaluation of IBD type, disease activity, and inflammatory burden
- Assessment of root causes such emotional stress, childhood experiences, antibiotic use, environmental triggers and nutritional deficiencies.
- Detailed analysis of gut microbiome composition and immune function
Phase 2: Targeted Intervention
- Stress reduction and nervous system healing
- Immune system support
- Microbiome restoration with targeted nutrition and probiotics
- Anti-inflammatory protocols with natural compounds and customized diets
- Gut barrier healing with targeted nutrients and compounds
- Nutritional repletion to address malabsorption-related deficiencies
Phase 3: Long-Term Remission and Maintenance
- Sustained microbiome health protocols for maintaining optimal balance
- Ongoing nutritional support and maintenance strategies
- Lifestyle integration with comprehensive stress management
- Regular monitoring and collaborative care when needed
Why is the gut microbiome central to IBD treatment?
+
IBD patients show dramatically different gut microbial communities compared to healthy individuals, with reduced diversity, decreased beneficial bacteria (especially butyrate-producing species), and increased pathogenic organisms. This dysbiosis perpetuates inflammation and compromises intestinal barrier function, making microbiome restoration essential for achieving and maintaining remission.
Can IBD be effectively managed with functional medicine approaches?
+
We have seen improved symptoms, mucosal healing of IBD and overall improved wellbeing in many patients. Our comprehensive approach includes more than the conventional approach and the standard functional medicine approach. Using traditional healing techniques which target the nervous system, heal old traumas, and address vibration and frequency, we have seen many patients thrive while minimizing medication therapy.
What makes your approach to IBD treatment different?
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At Whole Gut Health, we focus on addressing the root causes of IBD:
- Comprehensive assessment of gut microbiome dysfunction and immune imbalances
- Nervous system regulation and mind body healing
- Integration of conventional gastroenterology with functional medicine approaches and traditional healing modalities
- Targeted microbiome restoration using evidence-based protocols
- Root-cause treatment addressing underlying immune dysfunction and environmental triggers
- Personalized protocols based on individual requirements
Who provides IBD care at your practice?
+
Dr. Alexandra Shustina is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist who serves as Miami's premier gut health specialist. She has training in both conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health, with expertise in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.
How do I get started with IBD evaluation and treatment?
+
The first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation where we'll:
- Review your IBD history, current symptoms, and treatment response in detail
- Assess your gut microbiome health and immune function comprehensively
- Develop a personalized IBD management plan based on your personalized needs, specific type of IBD, disease severity, and underlying contributing factors
Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey toward lasting IBD remission through comprehensive gut health restoration and healing from the inside out.
Reviews
The body remembers when it's finally heard
“
Dr. Shustina goes to the root level of the issue, not only superficial, so there's healing.
LG
Leah Glickman
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She has significantly improved my health. I was suffering from Ulcerative Colitis and now live normally.
ML
Monica LaBadia
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Dr. Shustina has helped me change my lifestyle and heal my gut in a way I thought impossible.
DL
Dalit Lonstein
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She listens to patients and treats conditions, not symptoms.
GS
Gabriela Salazar
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Dr. Shustina is the best doctor I have ever been to. She assesses the root of the problem.
MS
M. S.
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She is an outstanding doctor who understands the body's ability to heal itself and holistic remedies.
SS
Sibel Sebi Sharabi
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Dr. Shustina has a wealth of knowledge and is helping me heal years of gastrointestinal issues.
DC
Daniela Chaparro
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Dr. Shustina is an amazing doctor. She diagnosed my cancer early and saved my life.
MW
Mordechai Weinstein
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After one session with Dr. Shustina, my digestive pain went away.
TP
Taryn Parascand
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Doctor Shustina is the absolute best. She has helped me resolve numerous issues other doctors dismissed.
RS
Rachel S.
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Dr. Shustina is a fantastic doctor who truly cares. Her holistic approach attacks the root cause.
CS
Clay Simonsen
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