The Gut Microbiome

CASE STUDY: Microbiome and gut health

SUBMITTED BY: Katie Donnelly

PATIENT: Male, 2 years old

INITIAL PRESENTATION:

Two-year old male presenting with loose bowel movements and repeated respiratory illnesses. Loose stools have been occurring consistently for as long as mum could remember, at least once per week. Colour varies from dark brown to slightly green. Some undigested foods noticed. The child wears nappies during the day and is learning to use the toilet, however, loose stool movements make this difficult as there is often urgency and a lack of control. No constipation being experienced.

Mum describes the child as ‘always being sick’ with coughs and colds. Symptoms include a runny nose with green mucus, phlegm, chest wheezing, and skin rash. A deeper cough often develops, and the recovery time can take 1 to 2 weeks. This is frequently treated with antibiotics. Mum describes having a few days of being healthy before coming down with repeated symptoms. On taking him to the doctor, she is typically prescribed an antibiotic (3-4 times per year).

The skin rash has not cleared for months and appears as dry dermatitis in the elbows and on the back of the upper arm. Mum describes a family history of asthma, dairy intolerance, and seasonal allergies. Food diary completed by mum indicates that dairy may also be a concern for her son, who regularly consumes milk, cheese, and yoghurt.

Uncomplicated pregnancy but mum experienced high stress relative to extended family concerns. Emergency C-section birth and exclusive breastfeeding for six months, when mum returned to work and began to bottle feed. No food allergies or other concerns at that time were identified.

HERBAL TREATMENTS

Herbal Formula (100mL)

Echinacea purpurea echinacea glycetract 60mL

Althaea officinalis marshmallow glycetract 40mL

Total 100mL

Take 1mL, three times daily

HERBAL CREAM

Matricaria recutita chamomile 10%

Calendula officinalis calendula 10%

Herbal base cream 80%

ADDITIONAL TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS

• Probiotics, one sachet per day.
• Ensure hydration is maintained, encouraging water as the primary drink.
• Remove dairy products from the diet for two weeks and closely monitor any changes.
• Include as many antioxidant rich foods as possible, and aim to lower intake of sugary foods and drinks (including juice).
• Increase daily protein to include a range of sources, including fish, chicken, and eggs. Vegetables sources include hemp, quinoa, and tempeh.
• Avoid introducing legumes for now. Current vegetable intake will support sufficient fibre.

TWO WEEK FOLLOW UP

Some improvements noted after removing dairy, with fewer loose bowel movements. The client came down, however, with a gastrointestinal bug involving vomiting and loose bowel movements that was going around daycare. Bug lasted 3 days.

• Mum felt he recovered faster than he has in the past, and was pleased with this.
• Found the skin cream nourishing and relieved some of the itching.
• Advised to recommence herbs and probiotics, as he wouldn’t take during gastro bug.
• Dairy remained in the diet. Encouraged to reduce this intake, as it may be contributing to symptoms. Mum agreed.
• Spoke about healthy home support, and household allergens including dust and mould, and potential sensitivities.