Frequently Asked Questions

Gut & Digestive Symptoms

  • Bloating after eating is usually a sign that digestion or gut bacteria are not working optimally. Common causes include gut microbiome imbalances, fermentation of certain carbohydrates, slower digestion, and food sensitivities. In many cases, more than one factor is involved.

  • Even very healthy foods can cause bloating if your gut is not processing them properly.

    This is often linked to fermentation in the gut, imbalances in bacteria, or sensitivities to certain fibres or carbohydrates.

  • IBS is a diagnosis based on symptoms, whereas a gut microbiome imbalance refers to changes in the bacteria in your gut.
    Many people with IBS symptoms have an underlying imbalance that can be identified and addressed.

  • Standard tests often rule out serious disease but don’t assess how the gut is functioning.
    Ongoing diarrhoea can be related to microbiome imbalance, SIBO, food sensitivities, or gut lining irritation.

  • Yes. Gut health plays a major role in energy.
    Poor digestion, inflammation, and reduced nutrient absorption can all contribute to fatigue.

SIBO & Gut Function

  • SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) occurs when bacteria grow in the small intestine where they are not normally present in large numbers.
    This can interfere with digestion and cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits.

  • SIBO is typically assessed using a breath test, alongside a detailed review of symptoms and history.
    Bloating, food intolerance, and persistent digestive issues are common indicators.

  • Yes. SIBO can increase sensitivity to foods by affecting how they are digested and fermented in the gut.

  • SIBO often recurs if the underlying cause is not addressed.
    This may include motility issues, stress, or broader gut imbalances.

  • Not always.
    In some cases, it is appropriate, but often the focus is first on improving the gut environment, digestion, and underlying causes.

Food Intolerances & Histamine

  • This is often a sign of underlying gut imbalance or increased sensitivity.
    It may be related to the microbiome, inflammation, or changes in digestion.

  • Histamine intolerance occurs when the body is unable to break down histamine effectively, leading to symptoms such as headaches, skin reactions, and digestive issues.

  • Not usually.

    The goal is to improve tolerance over time by addressing the underlying causes rather than long-term restriction.

  • Some probiotics can increase fermentation or histamine levels in certain people.
    This often indicates that the gut needs a more gradual or targeted approach.

Oxalates & Sensitivities

  • Oxalates are natural compounds found in many plant foods.
    They are normally processed by the gut and eliminated by the body.

  • Oxalate sensitivity occurs when the body does not process oxalates efficiently, which may contribute to symptoms such as gut irritation, fatigue, or food sensitivities.

  • Not usually.
    In most cases, intake is adjusted temporarily while improving gut function and mineral balance.

Fatigue & Energy

  • Standard blood tests do not always capture issues such as gut health, inflammation, or nutrient absorption.
    These factors can significantly affect energy levels.

  • Yes, gut health can influence energy through inflammation, the microbiome, and how nutrients are absorbed.

  • Energy crashes are often linked to blood sugar fluctuations, poor meal structure, or underlying metabolic or gut-related issues.

Weight, Appetite & Cravings

  • Persistent hunger can be related to disrupted appetite signals, blood sugar instability, or reduced satiety after meals.

  • Cravings can be driven by blood sugar fluctuations, gut bacteria, stress, or inadequate nutrition.

  • Weight regulation is influenced by metabolism, gut health, hormones, and inflammation, not just diet alone.

  • Yes, the gut microbiome plays a role in appetite regulation, metabolism, and inflammation.

  • No referral is required to book a consultation.
    Some clients are referred by their GP or other health practitioners, while others self-refer.

  • Yes. Many people I work with have ongoing or overlapping symptoms and may have tried multiple approaches previously. My work focuses on understanding underlying drivers and developing an individualised plan.

  • Rather than generic meal plans, I provide personalised nutrition and treatment plans tailored to your symptoms, tolerances and clinical picture. Food guidance is included where appropriate, but always within a broader, individualised approach.

  • For most people, meaningful progress involves more than a single session. While follow-up consultations are strongly recommended, this can be discussed based on your individual situation.

  • Testing is not routine.
    Where appropriate, I may recommend targeted investigations to gain further clarity, but this is always discussed with you first, including the purpose and relevance to your care.

  • Yes. Where helpful, and with your consent, I can work alongside your GP or other healthcare providers. I practise at Mosman Integrative Medicine as part of an integrative care team.

  • Yes. Consultations are available via telehealth, making it possible to work together regardless of location.
    (In-person availability can be confirmed at the time of booking, if applicable.)

  • I work primarily with adolescents and adults. I do not currently see young children.

  • This varies depending on your symptoms, history and goals. This can be discussed during your initial consultation once a clearer picture has been established.

  • The services offered is not covered by private health funds.

  • If you’re unsure, you’re welcome to get in touch with a brief enquiry before booking to determine whether my approach is a good fit for your needs.

General FAQ

Testing & Approach

  • Not always.
    Testing can be helpful in some cases, but many improvements can be made based on symptoms and clinical patterns.

  • A gut microbiome test analyses the bacteria in your gut to identify imbalances and guide treatment.

  • They provide useful insights, but results always need to be interpreted in the context of symptoms and clinical history.

  • The focus is on identifying underlying drivers, supporting gut function, and creating a structured, personalised plan.
    In clinic, I prioritise a gradual and sustainable approach rather than aggressive or restrictive protocols.