Acupuncture for Digestive Health: SIBO, Reflux, and Beyond in San Rafael
Digestive health is the foundation of overall wellness. When your gut isn’t working properly, everything from your energy levels to your mood can be affected. For many people in Marin, issues like reflux, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) have become part of daily life. But they don’t have to be.
At the office of Dr. Amy Shouse Filippelli, DACM, MS, LAc in San Rafael, I specialize in helping patients uncover the root causes of digestive problems and restore balance through acupuncture, dietary guidance, and targeted natural therapies.
How Acupuncture Helps Digestion
Acupuncture works by regulating the nervous system, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation to the digestive organs. It helps calm the “fight-or-flight” response that can shut down digestion, allowing the body to return to its natural “rest-and-digest” state.
Research shows that acupuncture can support gastric motility (how food moves through the gut), reduce acid reflux symptoms, and ease bloating and discomfort. Patients often report that after a series of treatments, they not only feel less digestive distress but also enjoy more energy and better mood.
Expertise in SIBO and Reflux
I have worked extensively with patients suffering from Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and reflux conditions (GERD, LPR/airway reflux). These are often frustrating conditions because conventional medicine may offer short-term relief but doesn’t always address the root cause.
With a combination of acupuncture and personalized recommendations, I’ve helped many patients reduce symptoms like chronic bloating, abdominal pain, and persistent reflux. My approach blends Traditional Chinese Medicine with modern functional medicine strategies to give patients the best of both worlds.
Diet and Lifestyle Are Key
One of the most important parts of healing the gut is diet. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, careful dietary changes can make a profound difference in digestive symptoms. Whether it’s removing trigger foods, supporting gut repair, or following a structured plan like a low-FODMAP diet, I guide patients through sustainable changes that work for their lifestyle.
In addition to acupuncture and nutrition, I may also recommend carefully curated supplements or botanicals—such as digestive enzymes, targeted probiotics, or soothing herbal formulas—to accelerate healing and reduce relapse.
Whole-Body Benefits
Improving digestive health isn’t just about reducing discomfort. When your gut is functioning properly, you also benefit from:
– Improved immune function
– Better nutrient absorption
– More stable mood and mental clarity
– Reduced inflammation throughout the body
Because the gut is connected to so many systems, patients are often amazed at how much better they feel overall once their digestion is supported.
FAQs: Acupuncture and Digestive Health
1. Can acupuncture really help with reflux?
Yes. Studies show that acupuncture can reduce acid reflux episodes and improve esophageal function. Patients often notice fewer flare-ups, less burning, and better digestion overall.
2. How does acupuncture help with SIBO?
Acupuncture helps regulate gut motility, reduce bloating, and calm inflammation. While diet and botanicals are often necessary, acupuncture supports the body’s ability to maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the small intestine.
3. Do I still need to change my diet?
Yes—dietary changes are usually key to long-term digestive health. I work with patients to make these changes realistic and sustainable, so you’re not stuck in a cycle of flare-ups and frustration.
4. Will I need supplements or herbs?
Sometimes. Based on your specific condition, I may recommend targeted supplements or botanicals. These are chosen carefully to support healing and minimize side effects.
5. How many sessions will I need?
This depends on the severity of your condition. Many patients begin to notice improvements after just 2–4 sessions. For chronic conditions like reflux or SIBO, a longer treatment plan may be needed, along with diet and lifestyle support.
6. Why choose local care in San Rafael?
Working with a practitioner in your own community means personalized care and ongoing support. I offer both private and affordable community acupuncture options so you can get the care you need in a way that works for you.
Ready to Restore Your Digestive Health?
If you’ve been struggling with reflux, bloating, or other digestive problems, you don’t have to keep suffering. With the right combination of acupuncture, nutrition, and supportive therapies, true healing is possible.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Amy Shouse Filippelli, DACM, MS, LAc in San Rafael today and take the first step toward better digestion and whole-body health.
Address: 712 D Street Suite B1, San Rafael, CA
Phone: 415-630-5322
