Good gut health helps diabetics cope with condition | Gladstone Observer

WHEN it comes to diabetes, the emotional stress the disease puts on the body can be just as dramatic as the physical toll.

But it's people like Gladstone-based psychologist and nutritionist Sylvia Smith who can change your way of coping.

Ms Smith is the only qualified Gut and Psychology Syndrome-certified practitioner in central Queensland, and fully practises what she preaches.

Treatment for GAPS has been developed to help restore digestive health through good nutrition.

This includes people with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and diabetes type 1 and 2.

"The way to live a better life with type 1 diabetes is to help heal the gut," she said.

"In turn, the vital medication that insulin sufferers rely on is absorbed more and is therefore more efficient."

Ms Smith believes we need to get back to basics when it comes to food and she grows and ferments her own vegetables.

"We need to eat whole, unprocessed foods," she said.

"Just go and buy the best grass-fed and organic foods you can afford."

She knows of type 1 diabetes suffers who have completely healed their pancreas.

"It can take 10 years to get there but it's possible," she said.

Ms Smith also uses Victor psychology and focuses on building individual food profiles for clients.

"Your body may need a high-carb, low-sugar diet to balance out," she said.

"But it's no good someone telling you what you need. You need to be shown how to actually do that - and I can."

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Psychology