By Jennifer Tardy
There are a few patterns I’ve been seeing repeatedly with new clients lately. If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone.
1) Why Everyone’s Constipated
Many people assume fiber is the issue—but most of the time, it’s not.
What I see more often:
- Not enough water
- Sluggish thyroid function (especially when T3 is low)
- Magnesium deficiency
If your body lacks proper hydration, signaling, or mineral support, adding more fiber can actually make things worse.
Before reaching for something like psyllium husk, ask yourself: Are you truly hydrated? And has your thyroid been fully evaluated—including T3, not just TSH?
2) The Supplement I’m Using This Week
This week, I’m using L-glutamine (5g, twice daily) with a client dealing with gut issues and food sensitivities.
Glutamine is the primary fuel source for intestinal cells. When the gut lining is compromised, it can contribute to:
- Food sensitivities
- Inflammation
- Digestive issues
Supporting the gut lining is a key step in improving function—not just managing symptoms.
The product I often recommend is Thorne’s L-Glutamine powder. I like it because it’s extremely clean—no fillers, flavors, or unnecessary ingredients. It’s well-tested, high quality, and easy to mix, making it simple for clients to stay consistent.
Like anything I recommend, this is not a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s targeted support when the gut needs repair.
3) The Worst Gut Health Advice I Keep Seeing
“Just eat more fermented foods.”
Sometimes that helps—but not always. For individuals with:
- Histamine intolerance
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- An already irritated gut
Fermented foods like sauerkraut or kimchi can actually worsen symptoms.
This is where many people become frustrated—they’re doing what they’ve been told is healthy, yet they feel worse.
That’s because gut health is not one-size-fits-all. What works for one person can backfire for another.
A Question for You
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you earlier about gut health?
If your gut still feels off and you’re tired of guessing what to try next, this is exactly what I help clients with. We test, investigate, and build a plan based on your body—not random protocols.
In good health,
Jennifer Tardy, CHN, IPHM
Jennifer Tardy is an IPHM-certified holistic nutritionist, integrative health coach, and personal trainer. Eating for Healing Nutrition and Wellness focuses on holistic approaches to health and wellness. She can be reached at 803-556-2593 or at www.eatingforhealing.org
