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Tired of digestive issues

controlling you?


I’ve reclaimed my life from 

chronic urgency and diarrhea 

without risky medications. 

You can too. 

I’ll show you how!



Dr. Troy Willis

The Unfortunate Expert 




It's time to talk about diarrhea.

It’s time for us to solve it, together.

It’s embarrassing. It’s draining your health and destroying your quality of life. 
If you are dealing with diarrhea, or have already been diagnosed with IBS, Crohn’s, or Colitis, you can heal without drugs, surgery, or difficult diets. 
You can end the anxiety around eating, public events, travel, and the relationship struggles that abnormal bathroom issues create. You can regain the energy that chronic diarrhea has stolen from you. 
My plan will get you there, and it’s easier than you think. 
Together we can heal your leaky gut, restore your mental sharpness, and get you living the life you deserve!

About Dr. Troy Willis The Unfortunate Expert

Meet the Doctor
Dr. Troy Willis Services


Get Started
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Blog

Here’s what people are saying about Dr. Troy’s digestive program…

"I had been looking for natural approaches for Crohn’s disease and as luck would have it, I met Dr. Troy at a Crohn's & Colitis event. Since I’ve started at Live Well my disease has gotten progressively better, thanks to all the wisdom and insights from Dr. Troy. He’s always willing and excited to share what he’s found helpful to treat inflammation and digestion. I love that he’s open to new ideas and treatments and completely open minded about natural healthcare. Troy is always willing to educate and guide you to live a better healthier lifestyle. I’ve learned to manage my Crohn's through diet and lifestyle changes with his reassurance and inspiration. I believe it’s because I found a doctor like him, that I am able to manage Crohn's Disease without medication." 
- Misty B., Louisville, KY

"Just about everyone has had or currently has digestion issues, due to our food choices and mixed advice lingering out there. Dr. Troy not only has he helped me, but I've witnessed him help many patients over the years! He knows the right questions to ask, and has a solution for everyone, even though we are all different." 
 - Sarah B., Olympia, WA

“When you have a health mentor who understands what you are going through, it makes a difference. Troy knows my goals, and is an inspiring and encouraging guide, whose recommendations are in balance with my own view on nutrition. I greatly appreciate his positive support and open-mindedness." 
 -Jean M,. Registered Dietician, Louisville, KY

Solid Gut System

90-Day Digestive Restoration Program

My proprietary digestive healing program sets you up for success because of my many failures in attempting to solve my Crohn’s disease. You will benefit from my years of trial and error, the thousands of hours of research I have done, and my use of my own body as the ultimate guinea pig.
Learn more about the program here:
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Dr. Troy Willis

-The Unfortunate Expert-

  • Nutrition and health science -University of Louisville.
  • Doctor of Chiropractic – Life University.
  • Member - American College of Lifestyle Medicine.
 


Looking for the best supplements to heal your digestive issues?

Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered!
I’ve spent a lot of years and a ton of money trying them all and I’m sharing the ten best here!


Supplement Guide PNG (1).png

Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert

drtroy@drtroywillis.com

ABOUT



Meet the Doctor…

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I’m Dr. Troy Willis, and I’m confident that I can help you resolve your digestive problems because I resolved my own and many of my patients’ bowel issues. You see, I struggled with painful stomach problems for years and was eventually diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in my early twenties. I followed my doctor’s orders for years only to get more and more sick.
I tried multiple diarrhea medications, but none helped for very long. I tried fad diets, sad diets, pills and potions—you name it, I probably tried it…or at least read the book.  I’m here to pass that wisdom on to you, to save you the struggle and simplify your path to great health.
My daily life is probably much like yours - working hard, juggling the needs of family members (three fantastic kids and a beautiful wife) while trying to make healthy choices that support my frustrating condition.  Thankfully, the system I have created fits within your life.  It’s realistic and doesn’t cause overwhelm.  That’s the last thing those of us with digestive issues need. 

Bio & affiliations

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Dr. Troy Willis practices in the Louisville, KY area and consults virtually for people worldwide with a focus on digestive health. He has become “the unfortunate expert” in this field due to his own battle with Crohn's Disease. He enjoys helping clients restore their health naturally by utilizing the advancements in healthcare technology and functional medicine and distilling it down into actionable steps.
He has created a proprietary method to solve conditions such as IBS, IBD, Crohn's, Colitis and other autoimmune issues and is in the process of writing a book chronicling his journey and the healing methods he incorporates.

Press & Media


Fitness Blitz Radio Podcast

I was thrilled to be interviewed as a guest on the Fitness Blitz Radio Podcast in May 2019.
You can find me in this episode: 
Fitness Blitz Radio:  Poop Talk with Dr. Troy Willis, May 18, 2019

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Instagram

Some people stock up differently.
Guess what! If the skins don't agree with you or you simply don't like 'em, skip 'em. Yes they're nutritious but don't let it keep you from eating apples. #naturalfirst #unfortunateexpert #fruitisyourfriend
Replacing the showerhead filter. Every little bit helps!
Gotta brag, @isabelmwillis whipped up a killer vegan lunch! Curry tofu, black beans and teriyaki brussel sprouts.
Just got our case of #switchel!
Homemade smoothie bowl game is 🔥 . . . #naturalfirst #smoothies #fruit #ibs #digestion #crohns #colitis
New school vs old school
Comparing smoothie bowls!
Cool new fave. Cool old story. #switchel #gatorade #naturalfirst
Just received more of my 'not so secret weapon' . . . . #naturalfirst #guthealth #fulvic #crohns #colitis #ibs #ibd #cellularhealing #healthcoach #digestion


SERVICES

Services

If you’re suffering from Crohn’s, Colitis, or other digestive issues…let’s create a simple roadmap for you to fast-track your symptom relief without wasted time or money.


There’s a lot of noise out there…how do you know what’s right for you?








Let me guess...
You’ve been trying to piece together all the information and advice from the web- the freebies, the blog posts, all the websites.
And yet you’re still suffering from your painful & inconvenient digestive issues. But now you’re even more overwhelmed and not sure what to do next.





You're ready...
  • to leave the house without stressing about where the next bathroom is
  • to eat out without fear & anxiety
  • to be present for your friends & family
  • to have the energy to do the things that truly bring you joy & happiness.



To live the life you deserve!



You’re committed to healing. You just need a simple, easy-to-follow plan. One that’s based on science and designed just for you. One you can trust will help you heal without harsh drugs so you feel better…fast!

Without wasting any more time & money!



I get it! I’ve been there!
I’ve gotcha covered!





“When you have a health mentor who understands what you are going through, it makes a difference. Dr. Troy knows my goals, and is an inspiring and encouraging guide, whose recommendations are in balance with my own view on nutrition. I greatly appreciate his positive support and open-mindedness.”
— Jean M. - Registered Dietician; Louisville, KY




Getting started is easy!




STEP ONE: Schedule Your Free Call
STEP ONE: Schedule Your Free Call
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STEP TWO: Choose Your Service
STEP TWO: Choose Your Service

 


STEP ONE: 
Schedule Your Free Call

The first step is to schedule your free Meet & Greet Call. This is a FREE 20-minute call for us to get to know each other. You can give me some insight on what you’re dealing with. I’ll give you a few actionable tips and together we’ll decide what the next best steps are for you!




“Dr. Troy helped me tremendously over the last month. I am currently in his 60-day gut reset. I am finally starting to feel better after a year of buying every single thing I researched on the internet.

His advice is scientific, personable and easy to follow. Most importantly to me he cares that I start feeling better and he is able to explain what I am experiencing and why. He has given me specific programs to follow.

There are some programs out there that I feel take advantage of the sick person. His program is reasonable and takes advantage of his intestinal expertise.”
— Jon S., Dallas, TX




STEP TWO: 
Choose Your Service from the List Below 

We are all in different places along our digestive healing journey. Your needs may be different than those of someone else. I’ll meet you where you’re at and help you choose the best service offering for your unique situation. 




SERVICES


Digestive Supplement Consultation

“THE SUPPLEMENT SHOWDOWN” ONE ON ONE VIRTUAL VISIT
Every person’s situation is unique. The Supplement Showdown is intended to help you find the right vitamins and supplements to boost immunity, optimize nutrition, and help solve digestive issues and other health concerns. 


Food Inflammation Testing

FOOD INFLAMMATION TEST (FIT) & 
DOCTOR’S REVIEW SESSION
This package provides you with the most reliable Food Inflammation Test I have found, testing 132 foods with a simple finger stick blood sample you can do at home. Once the results are in, we’ll discuss the results and your personalized healing plan. Finding out exactly which food are inflammatory to you is a game changer!
Bonus!! If you purchase the FIT test then decide to do the Reset-60 Digestive Health Restoration program after, the cost of the FIT test will be credited toward the Reset-60 Program.


Digestive Healing Program

SOLID GUT SYSTEM - DIGESTIVE HEALTH RESTORATION PROGRAM
This is Dr. Troy’s proprietary Digestive Health Restoration Program that includes Food Inflammation Testing, Initial Digestive Health Supplements, a personalized healing blueprint based your health history and test results, and one on one private Coaching sessions with Dr. Troy.


“I had been looking for natural approaches for Crohn’s disease and as luck would have it,  I met Dr. Troy at a Crohns & Colitis event. Since I’ve started with him, my Crohns has been progressively better thanks to all the wisdom and insights from Dr. Troy.

He’s always willing and excited to share what he’s found helpful to treat inflammation and digestion. I love that he’s open to new ideas and treatments and completely open minded about natural healthcare.

Troy is always willing to educate and guide you to live a better healthier lifestyle. I’ve learned to manage my Crohns through diet and lifestyle changes with Troys reassurance and inspiration. I believe it’s because I found a doctor like Troy, that I am able to manage Crohns Disease without medication.”
— Misty B.




Ready to get started?

Schedule your free Meet & Greet Call.
 
This is a FREE 20-minute call for us to get to know each other. You can give me some insight on what you’re dealing with. I’ll give you a few actionable tips and together we’ll decide what the next best steps are for you!




Looking for the best supplements to heal your digestive issues?

Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered!
I’ve spent a lot of years and a ton of money trying them all and I’m sharing the ten best here!


Supplement Guide PNG (1).png

Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert

drtroy@drtroywillis.com


BLOG

Talkin' Sh**


Overnight Disease
Illnesses develop over time, and usually provide clues before diagnosis.

OVERNIGHT DISEASE

June 23, 2021 
You don't go from healthy to disease overnight even if your symptoms did.
A while back, I had a patient who had been coming to see me for years walk in one day, visibly disturbed. I asked what was up and he reported, "I just came from the doctor, I was diagnosed with Diabetes"
Hopefully he didn't see me crack a smile as I navigated how to respond. You see, this guy had been heavy the whole time I had known him, frequently described gluttonous meals, and generally lived a fairly type 2 diabetic life.
I decided, sarcasm would be my angle, I said, "you know you had Diabetes yesterday too, right?"
Thankfully he got my joke and provided the opportunity to discuss the lifestyle factors that contribute to Diabetes and poor health in general.
So, even if your symptoms seem to have shown up out of the blue, you have undoubtedly had a more gradual failure of your body's systems leading up to those symptoms.
It's said that symptoms are the last thing to show up and the first thing to go away. That may be true but it's not necessarily a good thing. Symptoms are indicators of dysfunction and sometimes, like in the case of a heart attack, they come too late.
That's where periodic check ins with a doctor educated in healthy lifestyles and lab testing can be helpful. But even more valuable is being proactive about your health. Making good food choices, leading an active life, and trying to minimize stress are all smart strategies to stay healthy.
But what happens if you have ignored the symptoms, or like my diabetic patient, waited until it was obvious. The answer is, you get started in a positive direction ASAP. That's where I come in. If you aren't sure where to start, my team can provide you a safe, natural roadmap to get healthy again.




Crohn's, General Wellness 

What is the Precautionary Poop? I thought you'd never ask. 
If you force yourself to try to go #2 out of fear before leaving the house or if you have thought "I'll just try to get rid of all the diarrhea so that I'm safe", I call that The Precautionary Poop - and I did it for years. 
This indicates a digestive problem (obviously) and may be more concerning, an issue with the mental "wiring" surrounding your digestion. 
First, from a physiologic perspective, diarrhea is often a result of water being pulled from other tissues into the intestine, not from simply ingesting too much liquid. Your body will "make" diarrhea to rid itself of unwanted material or to limit irritation of the gut. The point is, if you are trying to make the loose stool stop happening by going to the bathroom more or reducing water intake, you won't win and will be doing more harm than good. 
Second, the act of preparing to leave the house can become an unconscious trigger for gut hyperactivity if you "train" yourself to have to go to the bathroom in this way. Much like the way the bulimic can develop the ability to vomit on command. The act of digestion resulting in a bowel movement shouldn't be a direct response type of thing, in fact, it's shouldn't be a quick action at all Instead, the stimulation for digestion should be a gradual process beginning with the brain, to the salivary glands, to the mouth, and so on. 
We will go into that in greater detail in the future but for now, and for best long term healing of your gut problems you must achieve relief of the digestive system itself AND address the brain function component. 
These two together are part of why I get great results with my clients. Sure lots of doctors can supply you with medicine to "turn off diarrhea" for a while but once you build a tolerance to the medicine or supplement yet haven't rewired the gut-brain connection, symptoms often come back.
The real magic comes from creating new neural pathways that are more health-supporting and getting off the ingrained unhealthy pathways relating to digestion. This strategy is what sets my method apart from other standard supplement-only programs. For real healing, you must incorporate the brain along with the gut. 
Listen, I know this type of condition is often embarrassing and ultimately demoralizing so I'm all for having a strategy like keeping a roll of TP in the car or a backup pair of pants stashed. Being prepared is wise, but trying to plan your diarrhea episodes isn't a successful plan, that's just continued suffering.
If you are doing The Precautionary Poop, we gotta talk.
Live Well,
Dr. Troy


You may notice I don't often write about research studies or complicated scientific analysis. It's not because it's unimportant, but for most of my audience, data and research articles only add to the overwhelm.  
However, I do want to discuss a recent study on the effects of Glyphosate, an herbicide (definition: a chemical agent that destroys plants or inhibits their growth ) used on crops such as wheat and corn. This herbicide most commonly goes by the name Roundup and is now the most used agricultural chemical ever. Since its inception in 1974, 10 million tons have been sprayed on the crops used for your food and the food eaten by all the animals you eat. It's pervasive even in organic crops due to runoff and over-spraying. It's even been found consistently in breast milk. Simple fact, it's everywhere.
Why is this such a big deal? Because a new study has found that glyphosate disrupts our gut microbiome and blood chemistry...at levels regulators claim to be safe. So we all know too much of anything can be harmful but this study proves that even small amounts of this stuff IS harmful.
Here is a link to an article summarizing the research study. 
The likelihood of you and your family's health having been affected by this stuff is high. Digestive problems (of course), allergies, skin issues, and even blood disorders are all linked to Glyphosate. 
For many of us, this isn't surprising as there have been multi-million dollar lawsuits won in the past few years against the makers of Roundup due to severe health conditions attributed to this nasty stuff.  
But really what can we do? On a personal level, eating organic, limiting grains in general is probably wise. We should also fuel ourselves with nutrients that support health, clean water, and detoxification techniques like sweating through exercise and sauna can be beneficial. 
While this is a dire subject for our nation's food supply, nature inevitably comes through for us in the most interesting ways. Some substances used to be found in our soil, called Humic and Fulvic molecules, that have been shown to bind to and dispose of Glyphosate from our body.  
The white paper linked here shows the ability of their Humic and Fulvic product to help seal the gut lining and expel Glyphosate. The product, by the brilliant researcher, Dr. Zach Bush, is called Ion Biome and is a well-regarded product in its own right.
I have come across a supplement company called Mother Earth Labs that incorporates these "magic" molecules into several of their products. They offer a liquid multivitamin, a concentrated liquid, easy capsules, and even pet support that all include Humic and Fulvic in their ingredients. 
This product is added to the daily smoothie I make so that I ensure each member of my family is protected against the glyphosate we are inevitably consuming. I knew the dangers but this recent study was a powerful reminder. This is no sales gimmick, I advise you to do the same for the good of your family. 
The link to purchase these gut-healing products is here.  
Get the Humic and Fulvic in whichever form is most convenient to you. We use the liquid most often at our house since we can take it by the teaspoon, add it to our water bottle, or add a splash in our smoothie. If you need a powerful all-in-one multivitamin, check out the ph Balancer and if you have questions on what would be right for you, simply reach out via email or schedule a call with me to discuss your health. 
Live Well,
Dr. Troy

General Wellness, Crohn's 

While I have gotten some recent compliments about my quarantine beard, my rugged handsomeness is not really what I'm talking about here.
Through the years there have been multiple instances in which doctors, friends, family, and others underestimated the extent of my digestive issues - because I “looked” OK. 
I remember going to my pediatrician and sharing with him how frequently my stomach hurt. He looked me up and down and in all his medical knowledge, declared “well you’re taller than me, you don’t look sick!”  Thanks.
My parents, while concerned about my complaints, fell in line with the doctor when he said to take a children’s aspirin when it hurts. Thanks again. 

My football coach had no mercy when I looked like I should be able to bench press more but I let the bar drop on my chest in extreme fatigue. Thanks, coach.
The Gastroenterologist telling me my condition was unrelated to worry and stress as I began to deteriorate. Welp, here we are. 
There are lots more instances I could share about people assuming I was healthy while I was suffering. I’m not blaming them necessarily as often it was me covering up my health issues, or minimizing them, so as not to worry the people I loved. 
The ability to hide our health issues, or simply not look like we are suffering, is often a coping mechanism on our part and can be detrimental or even dangerous not to share.
When people are unaware of our misery, it can be a reminder that our ability to “fake it” and come across like everything is OK shows that we are more powerful than we otherwise believe.  Unfortunately, it’s not the right approach to heal from any health issue. Support for this journey, especially if you have been diagnosed with Crohn’s, Colitis, or IBS, is critical.  
Friends, family, doctors -  yes, all the people that might have overlooked your pain are exactly the people to share your issue with. You might be surprised at their genuine concern for you. 
And, if you need someone to guide you back to health from digestive issues, to help figure out what foods are right for you, and to get your life back - I’m your guy!  

Just don't focus on it!
December 18, 2020 
If you were doubling over in gut pain or having multiple bowel movements per day and some digestive “guru” simply told you not to think about your digestion, you would write that “guru”off pretty quick.
Well, I’m no guru but I am telling you to minimize your focus on your bowel movements. Easier said than done, sure, but hear me out… As Dr. Thurman Fleet said in his book, Rays of the Dawn, “ Any part or function of the body is apt to become disordered if too much attention is centered on it. Body processes that are controlled by the innate mind are best performed when left undisturbed by the educated mind.  In the case of sleep and digestion, we cannot pay too LITTLE attention.”



This doesn’t mean we ignore what water or foods we put in or body, or don’t observe what comes out, in fact, its about putting nourishing things in and relaxing enough to let our body do the job it was designed to do. There are so many things that can disrupt our digestive system these days. Yes food, water, hormones, chemicals, heck even the air we breathe. What I have found though, is the worry, the stress of, the focus on, our problems almost always ADDS TO the Problem.  Especially when it comes to natural body functions like digestion.   Do you know how many, enzymes, acids, sphincters muscles, etc. all go into turning food to energy?  You couldn’t control all that stuff with your conscious mind if you tried! So don’t try. Focus on the things you can control and let the body do what it was amazingly designed for.  
This wasn’t easy for me once I developed symptoms of Crohn’s disease. Any tickle from my belly would put me on alert, frantically scanning the area for a restroom.  After some time, this connection (belly rumble-> urgent diarrhea) became a pattern for me. I was literally reinforcing the neural pathway from my gut to my brain to act this way.  That well worn pathway is sometimes tough to break. That’s why it’s one of the primary areas of focus in my digestive coaching program.   Creating a new pathway and letting the destructive one “grow over” or dissolve, is key to not just reliving symptoms but solving digestive dysfunction.  

The same is true for another major aspect of health.  Sleep.  You know it inherently, you just can’t TRY your way to sleep.  Remember the night before something important, Christmas eve for example, you knew you needed to get to sleep an would TRY so hard to fall asleep but it just made it tougher.  Or these days, when you wake up before your alarm and think “ugh TWO HOURS until I have to be up” while pushing your head harder into the pillow, trying to will yourself to sleep.  Forcing your self to sleep doesn’t work.  
So what does? Counting sheep? Maybe. It works by shifting your attention to something different, something monotonous.  So might relaxing your way back to a restful state. Finding a new comfortable position. NOT focusing on it. There are lots of other ideas we will explore another time. 
Whether it’s digestion, sleep, or one of the many other aspects of health, one of the underused methods of relief, is to simply change your focus to something else, to quit giving the problem so much attention. As long as you are doing the things necessary to create a healthy environment,  letting the body do what it was designed to do is a powerful action in itself.  If you are unsure of what those things are to influence good health, I’m happy to help you discover them.
In the meantime, stay in your lane.  You provide nourishing things for your body and mind, and then trust it to take care of the intricacies of the bodily processes.  It does its job much better in a relaxed, supportive environment just like the rest of us!

The Secret to Better Sleep (Your Mattress!)
General Wellness 
“You spend your life in your shoes, and in your bed — don’t skimp on either.”
— A Wise Man
I used to toss and turn all night long…either half asleep or fully awake most of the night. I’d glance at the clock with increasing anxiety as another 15 minutes would tick by and I was STILL awake. I knew I’d finally doze off 10 minutes before my alarm went off (never failed!!). 
I eventually even started to dread going to bed!
I was tired all day long…my body ached, I suffered from brain fog, and I just felt like I was just trying to get through my day with absolutely no energy. Not a good combo from someone who also suffers from Crohn’s Disease.
One of the most underrated aspects of good health is sleep. Chronic sleep issues can wreak havoc on your body over time and sadly poor-quality sleep has become a bit of a modern epidemic. 
 It’s one of the first lifestyle areas that I address with my Digestive Health clients.
Best Mattress for Great Sleep
With several factors impacting the quality of our sleep outside of our control, I like to focus on one aspect that we can directly affect is our sleep environment.
Choosing a good mattress is the ideal starting point for creating your new sleep sanctuary and addressing chronic back pain and other sleep issues. The method outlined below is the same one I use when I assess patients with sleep issues at my wellness clinic.

Based on a four-step method, I have selected Avocado Green Mattresses to recommend to my clients. (And I sleep on one myself, too…it has been a game changer!) 


STEP 1: CHOOSE A SIZE

First, you will want to determine the size of the mattress based on the needs of who will be sleeping on it. You’ll then take into account any health issues, such as GERD or acid reflux, joint problems or surgeries that might determine the type or size of mattress needed. Even the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine to treat sleep apnea could require an adjustable base or a pillow-top type cushioning, so you will definitely want to factor in those needs as well. Avocado offers standard sizes Twin through California King

STEP 2: ADDRESS ALIGNMENT AND SUPPORT

Next up, you’ll consider support and comfort — which are not mutually exclusive. In fact, proper support is typically what leads to a comfortable night’s sleep. Determine what your primary sleeping position is. From a structural perspective, sleeping on your back with knees supported is best for alignment. 
However, some people have difficulty with snoring or restlessness in this position and many prefer side sleeping. Side sleepers will need pressure relieving cushion at the shoulder and hip areas.

Better sleep Crohn's
There are several ways most mattress manufacturers attempt to address this support/comfort relationship through combinations of foam, gels, coils, even air-filled cylinders — each claiming their method is superior, of course. But there are potential pitfalls to each. Most foams are known to trap heat as they mold to your body and degrade over time. Gel mattresses may allow for too much movement and not be conducive to restful sleep. And air cylinders require a motor and electricity to maintain.
While personal preference is always a factor, based on discussions with many patients and reviewing thousands of spinal x-rays, the best approach is a supportive mattress (a mattress that is too soft can actually exacerbate back pain) with enough cushion for pressure points while using the safest materials. 
Avocado offers two levels of support: A Standard and a Pillowtop. Here’s what they say about firmness on their site:
“On a scale of 1 – 10 (with 10 being the firmest) our Standard Avocado Green Mattress rates as a 7, which is gentle, yet firm. It’s ideally suited for back and stomach sleepers, as well as lighter individuals and growing children — anyone in need of natural cushioning and medium-firm support.
With the Pillow Top option, our mattress rates as a 6. (It is not overly soft, ‘plushy’ or ‘sinkable.’ Instead, our pillow-top model offers just the right amount of added luxury and buoyant cushioning, all of which is buttressed by strategically zoned back support. Our pillow-top model more easily adapts to your body’s natural curves, and as a result, is ideally suited for side sleepers, all-around sleepers, heavier individuals, athletes and those in search of pain relief, pressure-point relief and critical back support.”
Support-wise, Avocado is a natural hybrid mattress, which uses layers of 100% natural Dunlop latex foam combined with a state-of-the-art innerspring system. This allows sleepers the perfect blend of support and contouring comfort.

STEP 3: RESEARCH HEALTHY OPTIONS (FOR YOU AND THE PLANET)

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Another important aspect to consider when researching mattresses is what it’s made of and how the manufacturing process affects the environment. In today’s modern world, we are bombarded with chemicals daily, and since half of our lives are spent sleeping, we must be aware of what chemicals our mattress exposes us to. The use of natural wool, organic cotton, and inert, non-noxious natural latex provide a safe sleeping surface for you and sustainable manufacturing processes are better for the environment. Be sure to look for proper certifications to ensure peace of mind.
Avocado uses all natural and organic materials (100% natural Dunlop latex tapped from sustainably harvested trees, natural wool, and organic cotton). and the whole mattress is GREENGUARD Gold certified by UL Environment. 

STEP 4: MAKE A SMART PURCHASE

As you narrow your search, it’s reassuring to know that most mattress manufacturers offer general “in-home trials” and some of the best offer 100-night sleep trials, free shipping and free return pickups. As many industries move to an online sales model, these considerations make for a great alternative to testing in stores with fluorescent lights and no sheets. Look for a real opportunity to test your new mattress in your true environment with the confidence that you can return it if you find it to not provide you what you expected.
Avocado offers a 100-night risk-free trial with free return pickups, has excellent customer service, and a 25-year limited warranty.

Image: Avocado Green Mattress
Image: Avocado Green Mattress
When it comes to price, mattresses are wide ranging.  My advice to my patients & digestive health clients is to work through your own individual needs as stated above. Remind yourself that proper sleep drives your daily energy levels and your productivity as well. And…a great mattress purchase will provide you with thousands of night of good sleep!
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
”The Unfortunate Expert”
*Reposted from this original article I wrote for Avocado Green Mattress in October 2017.

If you’re interested in learning more about my methods….I’d love to talk. No sales pitch…no pressure…just a 15-minute call to connect as two humans who know suffering too well to see if what if my approach can help you.
FDA Compliance
The information on this blog and website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or disease. This information is distributed for educational purposes only. Please consult with your Doctor before acting on any material presented on this blog and website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have any medical conditions which require medical supervision.
Note:  This post may contain affiliate links where I may earn a commission on purchases you make at no additional cost to you.  I only recommend products that I use and fully support personally.

SCHEDULE A CALL:


My "Lazy Persona"
Crohn's

Hello! Dr. Troy here!
If you’re reading this, it’s likely you or someone you love has been dealing with chronic diarrhea, bowel urgency, Crohn’s, Colitis, or other digestive issues that have been affecting your life in key areas. For example, have you been avoiding and losing opportunities in important areas of your life, such as travel, work, and relationships?  I would guess the answer is “yes.” I know because I’ve been there!

As you may know, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease when I was 20 years old, though I probably developed symptoms as young as 10-12 years old.

Crohn’s has affected my life in so many ways. One way I recall so vividly is from back when I was playing football in high school. During that time, I was experiencing stabbing pain in my abdomen and terrible bowel urgency. I had lost a ton of weight, and I was constantly weak and fatigued.

Thinking back, friends and teammates made jokes about my need to rush off to the bathroom during practice or my “pregame bathroom routine.”  They also found it funny when I would show up somewhere with one sock on, because I had to use the other for toilet paper on the side of the road.  I knew something wasn’t right because my performance didn’t reflect my ability or effort. I experienced extreme fatigue when running or lifting weights.  

At this time, I also began to create this “lazy persona”, in which I pretended to be “too cool” to lift weights or try hard. Yes- you read that right! I actually changed how I projected myself to the outside world to cover up the embarrassing medical issues I was having. I can only guess how many opportunities I missed out on in that period of my life. That was a long time ago…even before I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease.  

Once I was diagnosed, I continued to have varying degrees of severity and flare ups. I was treated traditionally with medicine after medicine with no lasting improvements.

Looking back, it’s because my doctors and I all ignored the effects of things like stress and important tolls such as nutrition, mindset, etc.

Through the years, I gradually started learning about these things and what I could affect. I began to really take control of my health myself. Not without some struggle and lots of experimentation.

Because I saw how powerful natural health can be, I was led to becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic…one of the most positive outcomes of my Crohn’s diagnosis. I have incorporated the natural methods I’ve learned into my practice over the past 15 years and now offer them to my clients and patients. You can learn more about them here.

My programs have became so reliable for helping people heal that I felt it was my duty to take it outside of my local community and begin offering it online.

I feel it is my true calling to help others who are suffering as I once did. It’s the reason I was given the challenge of living with Crohn’s. I’m here to be of service and if anything, I hope my story gives others some hope and a little inspiration.

Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy  

PS- If you’re interested in learning more about my methods….I’d love to chat. No sales pitch…no pressure…just a 15-minute call to connect as two humans who know suffering too well. 
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Healing Technique: The Separation of Mind & Body
October 28, 2020 
This week I thought I’d share a tool I’ve carried in my toolbox for some time. This is a technique that works for me and that has helped many of my clients over the years. Consider it a “sneak peek” into one of the many tools I use in my Reset-60 program.
I know we have all heard about the “mind-body connection” or even the “gut-brain connection”. Many studies have proven that the connection between the mind and the body is a powerful one that can either cause distress or promote healing.
But what if I told you that by separating your mind from your body, you could make better food choices, settle your gut in a moment of stress, and over time, even help heal the neural pathways that have become ingrained.
Confused? Let me explain.
Tools for Healing Crohn's or Colitis Mind Body Separation

Tools for Healing Crohn's or Colitis Mind Body Separation

Imagine your gut as a friend who needs your support. Maybe this friend is drinking too much,  doing drugs, or something else you knew was harmful to them…you would speak up, right? You would help guide your friend towards making better choices. It may sound silly, but the idea is to do the same for yourself...to be a supportive leader and a “guide” of sorts to your gut and to your digestive system as a whole-  as if they were your friend and you were looking in from the outside.
Separating your rational mind from the poor food choices or other poor decisions that you’re making can be extremely helpful and when making positive changes and adopting new habits. 

This same technique can be applied to calm the gut in times of stress or when you’re experiencing a flare up of symptoms. Are you acting as a supportive influence, reassuring your gut that things are okay and that it doesn't need to overreact? Or are you contributing to the problem? 
Many of us do this inherently with self-talk in some way. But using the Separation Technique takes it a step further. Using visualization (your gut as your friend) and even adding a calming touch for relaxation can be extremely powerful that can affect the way you see your symptoms play out.
Be the supportive leader that your friend, the gut, needs!

Tools for Healing Crohn's or Colitis Mind Body Separation
And if this doesn't resonate with you, that's ok! I have plenty of other tools and we’ll work together to find one (or several) that provide that same aha moment for you that the Separation Technique has given others! 
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
“The Unfortunate Expert”
PS- If you’re ready to heal your digestive issues once and for all….let’s talk! Schedule a time that works best for you here!

The Craziest Things People Have Said To Me About My Crohn’s Disease
Crohn's  
Let me ask you…have you ever been in a conversation with someone who knows you suffer from Crohn’s or Colitis and with no warning at all, they say the most ridiculous thing?
I have. Many times.
The truth is that while many people have heard of Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis, they don’t really know what it is. And that’s okay…I don’t expect them to. But when those crazy comments come out of their mouths, it can be so frustrating.
Here are a few of my favorites that I’ve heard over the  years…
Crohns and Ulcerative Colitis Support


“You’re so lucky you have Crohn’s so you can lose weight easier! I wish I could be skinny like you.”


“What!?!? You have to go AGAIN? Can’t you just hold it like everyone else?


“Well you don’t look sick.”


“Come on…it’s not that bad!”


“I don’t understand why you’re so tired [or insert other non-digestive symptom], I thought this was a digestive system disease.”


“I know exactly how you feel…I was in the bathroom for an hour after eating Chipotle the other day!” 


“It’s just an upset stomach…probably something you ate.”


“It’s all in your head. Focus on something else and it will go away.” 

What?!? Really!?!
It would actually be funny- if it wasn’t so frustrating!!
Although I do think most people are well-intentioned, these insensitive comments can make you feel even more isolated and alone.
vw bus two men talking.jpg
On the flip side…I’m sure you have people in your life who really do genuinely want to understand (or try to understand) what you’re going through. 
They ask intelligent questions and and are ready to listen. I usually answer them quite honestly, without embarrassment.
My point is…it’s always great to have the opportunity to try to educate people where you can…but in general, just let the insensitive comments roll right off. It’s just not worth your time or energy. Instead, surround yourself with those who are truly there to support you, without judgement, on the good days AND the bad. Build your own Dream Team of support players. 
If you don’t have friends or family in your personal life who can support you, reach out to one of the many online support groups out there. I guarantee you’ll find a welcoming community of others who truly understand what you’re going through because they suffer the same as you. 
And if you want to work with someone who understands what you’re dealing with, who has first-hand experience, and will be there to support you every step of the way, I’m here to serve.
We can schedule a time to talk here…no strings attached.
So let’s hear it! 
What’s the craziest thing anyone’s said to you about your disease? Comments below are welcomed!
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy

The Surprising Link Between Vitamin D, Autoimmunity, & Digestion
Crohn's, General Wellness, Gut Health 

Vitamin D deficiency plays a significant role in autoimmune disease, gut health, and digestion. In fact, there is strong evidence that Vitamin D deficiency may even be a contributor to autoimmune disease.

Your body synthesizes Vitamin D in response to absorption of UVB radiation from the sun. It is a type of steroid hormone that controls the expression of more than 200 genes and the proteins those genes regulate.  

Why do you need Vitamin D?

  • It’s essential for mineral metabolism (calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium) , bone mineralization and growth
  • It’s involved in regulating the release of serotonin, which is required for healthy digestion
  • It helps control cell growth, so it’s a MUST HAVE for healing
  • It’s CRUCIAL for regulating several key components of your immune system


Vitamin D, Crohns, Colitis, Digestion, Gut Health

Vitamin D, Crohns, Colitis, Digestion, Gut Health


Studies suggest that Vitamin D deficiency may even be a trigger for certain autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s & Colitis!).

And…brace yourself for this!! There are preliminary trials is Spain that suggest taking Vitamin D greatly reduces the risk of ICU admission and may even completely eliminate the risk of death from COVID.|

Please note that Vitamin D is NOT a cure for COVID, however early research is showing it’s of major significance. 

Convinced you need to pay attention to Vitamin D yet? You’re not alone! 


Here’s are a few ways you can get more Vitamin D:

  1. Get outside! 
    The best way to get more Vitamin D is through daily sun exposure on your skin. At least 10-15 minutes a day is recommended, but the duration tolerated varies based on skin tone and your risk for developing skin cancer. Aim for about half the time it takes for your skin to turn pink. Morning sun is great as you’re less likely to burn and it also helps stabilize your circadian rhythms and sleep cycles. 

  2. UV lamps
    In geographies where sun exposure is difficult, a lamp that emits UV-B radiation can also boost your Vitamin D levels. However, these lamps can be costly and it’s important to limit your exposure (typically less than 15 minutes per day), as too much could burn your skin.

  3. Nutrition
    Vitamin D is found in fatty fish such as Cod liver oil, salmon, tuna, and sardines. Egg yolks and mushrooms are also rich in Vitamin D. It’s important that you’re also considering co-factors needed for Vitamin D absorption, such as magnesium, Vitamins A and K2.

  4. Supplements
    In climates where direct skin exposure to sun is difficult, or in the Fall in Winter months in many places in our country where it’s colder in general, consider adding a Vitamin D supplement. 

The supplements I like are Designs for Health brand:

Vitamin D Complex* (includes the other fat-soluble vitamins)

Vitamin D Synergy* (just Vitamins D3 and K, if you already take a multi-vitamin)

**Please note that both include Vitamin K, which is contraindicated if you are taking a blood thinner such as Coumadin

Designs for Health Vitamin D Synergy.png
If you’re interested in purchasing these supplements at a discount, send me and email and I’ll get you setup!
Interested in a customized supplement routine designed just for you and your unique situation? I’ve got you covered!
Happy healing!
Dr. Troy

Your Most Valuable Healing Tool is You: Why Mindset Matters
September 14, 2020 

“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.”
— Henry Ford

It sucks to feel bad all the time. I get it...I’ve been there! It can be really easy to feel helpless, hopeless, and like things are totally out of your control when you’ve been suffering physical symptoms for even a short time.
But what if I told you that one of your most powerful tools for healing is something that you already have, that you were born with, and that you DO have control over?
BINGO! It’s your brain. You know…your mindset! 
There are COUNTLESS studies that recognize the relationship between a positive attitude and healing. I’m not saying that thinking about sunshine, rainbows, and kittens all day will by itself completely heal dis-ease…but it’s been proven to help immensely in the healing process.

Healing Power of a Positive Mindset

Healing power of a positive mindset

Have you heard the stories of those who have been given a terminal diagnosis, but survived for years and years because they TRULY believed they would?
How can this be?
Well your brain is actually able to change over time with repetition. The more consistent positive thoughts you have, the more the brain’s neurons change the chemical signals to your cells. This both impacts the genetic expression of your cells AND alters the structure and the function of your brain. 

This can impact you either way: negative thoughts promote a negative response, telling your cells that something is wrong while positive thoughts can help promote a healing response at the cellular level.
A positive attitude also helps you reduce stress, boost your immune system, and increase your mental and physical resilience- all necessary for vibrant health.
And the best part? Positive thinking is YOUR choice and it’s something that IS within your control!
I know. It’s easier said than done when you’re sick and tired and feeling sorry for yourself (I know- I’ve been there!). But I strongly encourage you to give it a try! 
Changing my attitude many years ago was a game changer!


Healing Power of positive mindset

Here are 10 things you can do to develop a positive mindset that ultimately helps heal your body too!



Healing Power of a positive mindset
  1. View yourself full of vibrant health. The way you view yourself becomes your reality. If you view yourself as strong and empowered in your healing journey, you’ll be strong and empowered. If you view yourself as sick and adopt a “victim” mentality, this is how you’ll remain. 

  2. Reframing. Rather than bringing attention to the things you can’t do because of your illness/symptoms, focus on ALL of the things you CAN do. Now doesn’t that feel better?

  3. Believe you can heal! THIS is a game changer!! Your thoughts are so powerful that they become your truth! 

  4. Relationships. Those you choose to give your time and energy to are so important! Make it a point to connect often with those who lift you up and consider distancing yourself from those who bring you down. It’s not selfish – it’s your health on the line.

  5. With that said, it’s always helpful to have a confidant you can confide in - one who will listen and support you without judgement and help you stay positive on the days you’re struggling.

  6. Then there’s your Doctor. Is she negative in her words and actions- or does she listen, truly provide support, and share your belief that healing is possible?

  7. Smile. It’s an easy one and it just makes you feel instantly happier. Plus it’s contagious!

  8. Spend time in nature. The sights, sounds, smells, and fresh air of the outdoors is an instant mood booster that trickles to the cellular level.

  9. Meditate. Guided meditations can help bring calm and promote well-being…even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.

  10. Practice gentle yoga. It’s a great way to move your body gently when you’re not feeling well. Yoga releases your “feel good” hormones and promotes positive thinking.

And this is just the beginning! There are so many more things you can do each day to cultivate a positive mindset.
Are you ready to make this shift? 
I’d love to help! I can be your confidant who is there to support you 100% of the time while also adding in the scientific methods I’ve used to help so many clients heal their digestive issues.
Let’s talk to see if my approach is right for you! You can schedule your complimentary telehealth consult here.
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy


How to Choose Quality Meat & Dairy Products
Gut Health, Crohn's 

So, you’re cruising down the grocery store aisle and find yourself in the meat section. You likely have a variety to choose from…and some are way more expensive than others. 
Do you sometimes wonder what all those terms REALLY mean? And are the more expensive selections really better for you than the lower priced options?
The short answer: Maybe.
Most Americans are nutrient deficient in varying degrees. There are several reasons for this…the availability of processed foods, our busy lifestyles, and the quality of the food that is available to us through our traditional grocery stores.
Meat and dairy shopping
And those of us who suffer from an autoimmune disease or digestive issues tend to be even more nutrient-deficient that the average population. When we don’t digest our food properly, we aren’t getting the nutrients from it that we should. This is especially true if you suffer from chronic diarrhea.

This makes it especially important to ensure we’re consuming the  most nutrient-dense foods we can.

This article will cover the meats and dairy products that are most readily available to us today….what all those terms on the package really mean and why quality matters for our health.


There are two main things that affect the quality of the animal products we consume:

  1. The diet the animal eats during its lifetime.

  2. The environment in which the animal was raised.



Happier animals who get the nutrients THEY need from both their diets AND their environments are healthier animals. 
With that said, it’s important to understand certain terms used in marketing animal products so you can better evaluate its quality with regards to these two aspects.

Grass-fed vs. Pasture-Raised 

Though these two terms are often used interchangeably, they do not mean the same thing. While a grass-fed animal IS pasture-raised, a pasture-raised animal is most likely NOT purely grass-fed. Grass-fed generally refers to cattle while pasture-raised generally refers to pork, chicken, and turkey.

Grass-fed (cattle)

Grass-fed is a term used to describe the way Herbivorous animals were raised. Herbivorous animals include cattle (cows, bison, sheep, goats, deer, etc.) whose natural diets include grass and broad-leaf plants. They are free of antibiotics and added hormones.
Grass-feed cattle can be either grass-finished or grain-finished. More on this in the chart below!


Beef quality

Chicken and egg quality

Pasture-raised (pork, chicken, turkey)

Pasture-raised is used to describe omnivorous animals that are raised in a pasture and allowed to roam freely. Omnivorous animals’ natural diets include grains, seeds, and bugs. When being raised for consumption purposes, they are often fed supplemental diets consisting of grains, seeds, soy, table scraps, and farm surplus (leftover fruits and vegetables). 
Omnivorous animals generally need supplemental food to truly thrive. Pasture-raised animals are also free of antibiotics and added hormones.

Still confused? I know…it’s a lot! So I put together this simple chart to help keep it all straight when standing in the grocery aisle and subject to the marketing terms we often see on our meat and dairy products. Be sure you know what you’re getting! For example, beef labeled “organic” may not be the best available. Grass-fed is likely higher quality.

Meat and Dairy Terms Quality Marketing

But does this all really matter?
YES! A happier, healthier animal who has been fed a higher quality diet that is closest to their natural diet will produce a superior food source for us….whether it’s meat, milk, or eggs.

egg meat dairy quality

Benefits of eating higher quality animal products:
  • Pasture raised animals are better treated, happier, and generally healthier…resulting in meat that is healthier for us to consume. There is a lower risk of bacteria such as e. coli in healthier animals.
  • Free of antibiotics and hormones which are disruptive and harmful to our health.
  • More nutrient dense meat & dairy. Higher (sometimes MUCH higher) vitamin and mineral content, especially in the vitamins and minerals those with autoimmune disease often deficient. Factory farmed animals may be so deficient in certain important vitamins, such as Vitamin-D, that they may even be close to non-existent.
  • Leaner meats (which means it has more protein!) and fats are healthier. They have a better omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio (anti-inflammatory effects).
  • Less subject to oxidation in processing and storage 🡪 higher concentration of antioxidants (anti-inflammatory effects).
So…all this is great, but now you’re thinking “What can I do to ensure I’m getting the best quality meat, dairy, eggs”.

Here are a few tips:

  • Be knowledgeable about the various terms surrounding the way animals are raised and fed and be aware of how they are used for marketing purposes

  • It’s always best to know the source: Find a local farmer and learn how their animals are raised and fed. Know that just because a farm isn’t labeled “certified organic” doesn’t mean its products aren’t “organic”. An Organic certification is expensive, and many small, local farmers forego it. You can search for local farmers in your area on www.localharvest.org.
  • Look for the “Certified Humane” label to find products that come from farms who meet the requirements for raising their animals humanely. You can find a list of farms on www.certifiedhumane.org. Some farms even offer shipping if you don’t live local to them!
Certified Humane
  • There are some online companies who sell higher quality, humanely raised animal products. Do your homework and find a few that work for you! One such company is www.butcherbox.com or www.porterroad.com

The bottom line
I know higher quality animal products can be expensive and not always realistic. But if you can find a little extra room in your budget for upgrading a portion of your groceries, making animal products a priority is a great place to start!

Schedule your free, 20-minute telehealth Zoom or phone call for a chance to ask some questions and learn more about my approach. I look forward to talking!

Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
”The Unfortunate Expert”


A Brief History of Gut Health

Medicine has come a long way in the last hundred years, and thankfully an awareness of gut health has as well. For a long time, doctors did not know how to treat the digestive issues that so many people experience today.

old books.jpg

A Brief History of Gut Health

Dysentery and Diarrhea

In 1892, William Osler, “The Father of Modern Medicine”, wrote that dysentery “has been more fatal to soldiers than powder and shot.” Author Mary Roach writes: 
“For every American killed by battle injuries during the Mexican War of 1848, seven died of disease, mostly diarrheal. During the American Civil War, 95,000 soldiers died from diarrhea or dysentery. During the Vietnam War, hospital admissions for diarrheal diseases outnumbered those for malaria by nearly four to one.”
professor writing.jpg

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

In 1950, a medical journal published an article about symptoms related to an “irritable bowel,” documenting what had been referred to in the past as “spastic colon”, “nervous colon,” or “irritable colon.” Symptoms common with what we now know to be Irritable Bowel Syndrome had been considered, by some medical professionals, to be caused by a “mental disorder” or the imagination.

Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease

Reports of symptoms associated with the Ulcerative Colitis go back as far as Hippocrates. And in the 1800s, François-Joseph-Victor Broussais and John Brown documented their beliefs that “all diseases derived from inflammation in the GI tract.” It was not, however, named as a disease until 1875. 
 In 1932, Crohn’s Disease was first documented and was thought originally to be a form of tuberculosis. Later in the late 1960s, the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation was founded by two families searching for answers. The foundation raised money for grants that made breakthroughs in IBD research possible.   

Digestive Health Today

Although there are still many questions about the digestive tract, the microbiome, and the symptoms related to IBS and IBD, we have made so much progress. 
 If you have been on the gut-healing journey for any length of time, it may sometimes seem as though the answers are limited. I can identify with the helplessness many people feel as they search for relief. It can be a lonely road, one that I have walked personally. 
BUT I can tell you that there ARE answers and you CAN find relief. 
food spices.jpg
There are a variety of ways to manage the symptoms associated the IBS and IBD. I have written at length about the supplements that have changed my life and the lives of many of my clients. 
I believe that stress management and sleep are essential to overall health. 
And I have found that one of the quickest ways to get much-needed answers is by taking a Food Inflammation Test. You might be surprised by which foods are causing your symptoms. For many people gluten and sugar are culprits, but what if there are other, “healthy” foods that are causing issues for you? 
If you are still looking for relief and need guidance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I am happy to talk with you about your journey—what you’ve experienced and where you hope to be in the future. 
 Schedule your free, 20-minute telehealth Zoom or phone call for a chance to ask some questions and learn more about my approach. I look forward to talking!
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
”The Unfortunate Expert”


The Healing Power of Relationships
General Wellness  

One of the silver linings of the Coronavirus shutdown for me is that I’ve been able to spend more quality time with my family. Recently, we rediscovered our trampoline which has hardly gotten any use the past few years. My two youngest kids egged me on to jump with them and all I could think about was how it was going to bother my knees or hurt my back. 
But instead, we spent an amazing 20 minutes jumping together- laughing hysterically and then having meaningful conversations as we laid on our backs, exhausted and happy.
This has continued night after night and I have to say, my knees and back feel better than they have in years…the same way my connection with my children feels – even stronger than before!

Did you know that our relationships have an impact on our physical health? 

Relationships Eating Together.jpg

Healthy relationships can promote healthy lifestyles and toxic relationships can perpetuate stress, unrest and wreak havoc on the body. Studies at Carnegie Mellon University have found that “social support and belonging can reduce stress, heart disease and improve quality of life.”
It makes sense that stress causes health issues, but scientists have found that this reality goes even deeper! All the way down to your gut health! The results of a 60-year study on the gut microbiome of individuals in Wisconsin was published last year. The Wisconsin Longitudinal Study found that gut health was affected by relationships: spouses, family and friends. 
“Social relationships exert a sustained influence on human health and mortality with social isolation having strong negative consequences and high levels of social integration far exceeding the protective effects on mortality of individual level behaviors such as smoking cessation or maintaining a normal weight (Dill-McFarland, K.A., Tang, Z., Kemis, J.H. et al. Sci Rep 9, 703 (2019).” 



mother daughter relationships.jpg
I mentioned last week that you can take all the best supplements but their impact will be minimal if you don’t make other lifestyle changes. I had to learn that the hard way. Without lasting lifestyle changes, I found that my symptoms creeped back in. The same can be said for the relationships in our lives and whether or not they are healing relationships, or stress-inducing ones. This is especially important for those who have an autoimmune disease or suffer from debilitating digestive issues.
As daunting as dietary changes might seem, relationship changes can seem impossible. Take some time to reflect and journal on the following: 
  • Make a list of the people you interact with the most—think family, friends, colleagues, an employer. 
  • As you are evaluating your current relationships and their impact, ask yourself, do they drain you or do they energize you? How do you feel when you’re around them or when you interact with them? How do you feel after? Are you stressed when you think of them? Do they bring your joy, encourage you, and support you?
  • Recognizing the reality of each of your relationships is the first step to making positive changes. Thinking of the positive relationships in your life, what can you do to strengthen them? How can you have a deeper connection with those you love?
  • Do you have any toxic relationships? What makes them so? Can they be healed? If not, it may be time to let them go for the sake of your health.
relationships facetime.jpg

Now, take some time to reflect on your current social life and the connections you have. Connection is imperative to human health. As we all try to stay connected to those we love during this pandemic, how can you connect with your loved ones when we can't "physically" connect with a hug, dinners, etc.? It definitely involves getting creative. Have you tried a Zoom family game night? Do you Facetime? What is working? Who do you miss and how can you connect with them? 
Be sure to make time to connect, even if it’s from afar! After all...THIS is what life's about. What else do we have if we don't have those we love...who support us, uplift us, and fill us up? It is so important to make time to nurture those relationships...our health depends on it.
If I can be a support to you during these strange times, please don’t hesitate to reach out. If you’re ready to feel better once and for all, schedule your free Telehealth consultation here to see if what I do works for you! You’ll gain me as your partner and coach…someone who’s been where you are and who knows they can help.
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
The Unfortunate Expert


Spotlight on Dr. Troy: Then & Now
Crohn's  
As you likely know, I suffered from Crohn’s symptoms for a really long time. I feel like a totally different person now and I’m often asked exactly what I did to improve my digestion and terrible gut issues. The first thing I say jokingly is, “well I figured out that beer and chicken wings weren't good for me!”
The truth is…it’s taken many years of trial, error, learning, and relearning to get where I am today. 
I wasn't even close to eating healthy 20 years ago. While I suspected that food had an effect on the severity of my symptoms, my gastroenterologist insisted that this wasn't the case. I was in denial and I thought there was nothing I could do about my Crohn's disease. 
Dr. Troy Willis Crohn's Recovery
This led to a couple of unhealthy patterns that continued for some time:
1)    Trusting and putting my faith in someone else who was an “expert” so that I didn't have to make any real changes (change is hard after all!)

2)    The frustration of the symptoms drove me to seek comfort in food and alcohol.  



Back in the day…
Back in the day…
As I began to learn more about nutrition, I was on somewhat of a roller coaster of extremes. I would read something about dairy being bad, then cut out dairy for a month. Then later read something about gluten being bad and would cut out gluten for a month…and so on. These dietary “adjustments” provided varying degrees of relief while some provided no relief at all. I was basically just grasping for straws and seeing what worked.
I also began to dabble in supplementation at this time. I learned about cat’s claw and slippery elm. When I first started using them my symptoms improved and these herbs are still helpful to this day. But I learned that if you don't actually make positive lifestyle and nutrition changes, the symptoms can creep back no matter what herb, supplement, medication you’ve started.
Back in those days my activity level varied based on my energy level and severity of symptoms and I definitely shied away from exerting myself or stepping outside of my "safe" level with exercise. If I had a few good days I would enjoy some  basketball or something similar. Other times I could go months with no real activity at all and it was all I could do to get out of bed and make it through an average day of school or work. 
 

20 years ago Troy vs now Troy is absolutely an evolution (and still is!)…a gradual learning, tweaking, and continuing to make improvements. I am now to a point where I follow what I consider an optimal diet.
 While I do still make some food choices that I know aren’t necessarily the best for me, I choose these things mindfully. If I want to enjoy the treat food, try something new, or test the stability of my gut, I will. I truly believe moderation (rather than deprivation) is one of the keys for creating changes that stick for a lifetime. But in general, my day-to-day is closer to what I’ve learned is the ideal diet for me. 

Dr. Troy Willis Crohn's Recovery


Foods to Eat for Crohn's

And how did I learn what my ideal diet is? It’s taken me a while to get here. But with the combination of food inflammation testing, blood type knowledge, and a whole lot of trial-and-error, the path became very clear to me. 
For me, I’ve learned that my optimal diet is fairly low fat and higher in healthy carbohydrates and protein. I choose organic when I can, gluten-free for the most part, and opt for foods with minimal added ingredients.
Though everyone’s optimal diet is likely a little different, I’ve found that the same great system I used to dial in my nutrition works for my clients as well. It’s a difficult process when you try to go it alone…looking at food labels, seeing words you can’t pronounce, and wondering if they’re okay or something you should avoid even though they’re “natural” ingredients. Having a guide or a coach can help you navigate the complicated food additives, emulsifiers, and preservatives that really can wreak havoc on your gut.


For example, ingredients such as “carrageenan” and the various “gums” may be “natural” but are often culprits that exacerbate digestive symptoms. 
And what about those foods that ARE healthy and good for you? Could they be causing or making your digestive symptoms worse? Possibly. This is where a Food Inflammation Test comes in! 
Though I’ve made HUGE strides in the quality of the foods I eat, one of the places I’d like to improve personally is to better enjoy the process of cooking or making my own food. Thankfully my youngest daughter does enjoy cooking from scratch, and it's become a source of togetherness when she makes us something new and we get to experience it as a family. 
Top Supplements for Digestive Health

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As for supplementation and vitamins, I’m always searching for efficiency and simplification in this area. While I do believe that vitamins and supplements are a necessity in today's modern world for many reasons, I try not to add to the stress and the over-analysis that often comes with the supplementation game. Therefore, the supplements I recommend to my clients are those that have worked for me personally.
It’s important to note that your personal supplementation routine is not locked in stone…it may change depending on the stage of your gut health journey. Now that I’ve resolved my gut issues and I’m more focused on optimizing my health and extending my lifespan, my supplements routine continues to evolve. I still continue to experiment…I will go on and off supplements for months at a time to try to discern any value or difference in the way I feel and through blood work. I am absolutely still my own (and your) guinea pig . 

With regards to activity and movement…I am very thankful that I feel like a different person from 20 years ago and I’m considerably more active than I used to be at an even younger age.
When I was quite ill with symptoms, I would watch a neighbor of mine who was in his late 70’s trimming his bushes and I would honestly think to myself that I would never be able to do that again. The thoughts I used to have of my kids growing up without a dad who could play catch or ride bikes with them have gone by the wayside as my health has continually improved.
Even more recently, I’ve recognized the healing power of relationships with friends and family and the big impact the connections we have with the people we surround ourselves with can have on our health. 

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I’ll elaborate on the topic of connection and relationships in my next post!
Stay tuned!
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
The Unfortunate Expert

PS - If you’re ready to feel better once and for all, schedule your free Telehealth consultation here to see if what I do works for you! You’ll gain me as your partner and coach…someone who’s been where you are.

How to Create Change That Lasts
July 13, 2020 

What habits aren’t serving you?


Change can be hard. 
For many of us, when it comes to nutrition and (not) managing stress, we have learned to do what makes us most comfortable. Habits having to do with lifestyle and nutrition are ingrained and have become routine. But, if these habits aren’t serving you, you have the choice to make new, healthier habits.
It won’t be easy in some cases, of course. It takes time to create new positive patterns while transitioning away from those negative ones but think about this—those habits that are not serving you now became easy and second nature somehow. Why can’t new, healthier habits become easy and second nature as well?
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The bottom line is that change is scary and the fear of the “unknown” (as in a new way of doing something you’ve always done the same way for many years) can hold you back. But if you have the right tools, it doesn’t have to feel impossible.With the Right Tools, Change Is Possible

Here are some tips to make new habits stick:



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  1. Identify your “why”

  • This is your “purpose statement” and it’s the backbone of everything. You have to have a strong, powerful purpose behind your desire to change an ingrained habit. Really think about what you want to achieve from this change. Imagine how your life will be different once you make that change. Close your eyes and really see it and feel how it will be once you have more energy to play with your children, have the freedom to go in public without the panic of not being able to find a restroom, to [insert your why here].
  • It should be aligned with your values. What is most important to YOU?—Family? Travel?
  • Identify what it will mean to you to achieve these goals. How will your life be better?


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2. Small steps 

  • Don’t overhaul everything at once. It may work in the short-term, but it’s not sustainable. Here is a more sustainable approach: 
    • Pick one new habit to try, then do it…every day for a week, 2 weeks, a month…however long it takes to “stick”. Once you have that one down, you can introduce another change. Maybe this looks like adding a serving of vegetables every day for two weeks, then adding another. Or maybe you want to be more active so you might try a 20-minute walk after dinner each night. Whatever you choose, make this goal attainable and realistic. Once you hit it, celebrate your success, then add the next one!



3. Have a plan—set yourself up for success

  • How will you do it? What does this look like?
  • What possible barriers will you face and how will you overcome them? How can you anticipate or plan for those barriers? For example, time is an issue for a lot of us. Our lives are busy. If you have a plan and make your goal an important priority, you’ll never again say “I’m too busy” to spend a few extra minutes preparing a fresh, healthy meal or “I’m too busy” to grab my fresh ingredients at the store to have on hand for my meals for the week, or “I’m too busy to take that walk after dinner”. Plan ahead.

4. Always remember that healthy changes are a choice

  • Shift your mindset by reviewing your purpose statement. Once you see that it’s bigger than just that one donut or giant bag of chips you want to eat, it’s easier to not eat that donut. Keep your goals, your why, and your plans at the forefront of your mind and it will be easier to consistently make healthy choices. Remind yourself how good you feel when you do your new healthy habit.
  • Remembering that you are *choosing* this healthy lifestyle will make you feel confident and empowered.

5. Accept that you might “fall off the wagon”

  • If you “fall off the wagon”, which is very likely going to happen, it’s okay. Be patient with yourself and keep it in perspective. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t beat yourself up or allow yourself to spiral downward. Accept     that you didn’t make the best decision and resume that healthy habit tomorrow.
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Use this opportunity as feedback and learn from it. Ask yourself what’s working for you and what’s not? Was this the product of poor planning? Were you stressed? Identify what happened and consider how you can choose differently next time.

6. Revisit your why

  • When you get stuck or get off track, feel discouraged or aren’t seeing the results you expected, go back to your why from #1—it can help to write this down so that you can revisit it regularly. Remember…lifestyle changes take time.

One of the changes that could help you reach your goals is working with me. 
If you’re ready to feel better once and for all, check out my Reset-60 program to see if it’s right for you. You’ll gain me as your partner…someone who’s been where you are. 
Together we’ll outline a custom plan that works for you and I’ll be there to support you to help you stick to it. I’m 100% all-in for you to make sure you get where you want to be.
Let’s do this together!
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
The Unfortunate Expert

Glyphosate and Gut Health
July 6, 2020 
Before WWII, most foods grown in the US were considered “safe”. Nutrient-dense foods grew in rich topsoil and were free from harmful herbicides and pesticides. However, our foods have become increasingly harmful.
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The most widely used herbicide in the world is Glyphosate- more commonly known as Round Up. It’s a concoction of chemicals used not only to kill unwanted weeds, but to speed up the maturation process of certain grains so that farmers can harvest crops sooner. 
For the last 20-30 years, Glyphosate has been used on crops all over the world. Created in 1974, it drastically changed the landscape of our food sources. It is used on everything from soy and corn to wheat and oats, affecting not only the foods themselves, but the very soil they’re grown in. 

And it doesn’t only affect the produce we eat. Animals eat grains that have been sprayed with Glyphosate. We in turn eat those animals or use products from those animals...and our health is directly impacted. 
An article published in 2015 by Mary Ellen Kustin states that 
“More than 80% of all genetically modified crops grown worldwide have been engineered for herbicide tolerance. As a result, the use of toxic herbicides, such as Roundup®, has increased fifteenfold since GMOs were first introduced.”

Glyphosate is also sprayed on golf courses, parks, school properties and neighborhood lawns and can cause health problems when absorbed through the skin.

Harmful Effects

Glyphosate has been identified by the World Health Organization as a carcinogenic and has been linked to many chronic health problems. 
It is associated with leaky gut, brain fog, weight gain, bloating and digestive issues and is an endocrine disrupter that has been associated with kidney and liver disease. It also affects the body’s ability to produce amino acids and a 2019 study proved the negative impact it has on microbiome gut health.
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What You Can Do: Avoidance, Treatment and Detox

Genetically modified food (GMOs), also known as Genetically engineered foods (GEs) were introduced commercially in 1994 as an answer to herbicides and pesticides. These foods have been modified in laboratories so that they can resist the effects of harmful chemicals such as Glyphosate. This allows for the herbicide to be sprayed on the entire area of the plant to kill the surrounding weeds while allowing the plant to remain intact. 

Common staples in American homes have been genetically modified and contain very high levels of Glyphosate. Some of the foods that have the highest levels are Cheerios, Oreos, Doritos, Ritz Crackers and some Stacy’s and Kashi products.



Making changes to avoid exposure

It can be overwhelming to address an issue that impacts so much of what we eat. But here’s where you can start:

1) Avoid GMOs and GEs

By 2022, many foods will have to include labeling having to do with whether or not there are GMOs in its ingredients. Look for labels that say “No Genetically Engineered Ingredients” and do your homework before shopping.

2) Eat organic food

This, of course, can be difficult. Organic foods are more expensive and not always as readily available as other foods. The EWG’s (Environmental Working Group)
Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists can be very helpful in deciding which foods to invest in and which are safer to consume without the organic label. 

3) Use baking soda to wash produce. 

Before consuming your fruits or veggies, mix 14 grams of baking soda per liter of water. Soak your produce for 5 minutes and then rinse it off with cold water.


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While eating clean is one way to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals such as Glyphosate, here are some other steps you can take:



1) Sauna or steam rooms can assist the body in detoxing from harmful chemicals.
2) Supplements such as probiotics, electrolytes, activated charcoal, and bentonite clay have been shown to help heal the gut and nervous system. 
3) Eating a diet rich in fermented foods can help heal the gut.
4) Ayurvedic therapies such as massage and oil pulling can reduce the amount of toxins in the body.


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But one of the most powerful tools for detoxifying and supplementing in my gut-healing tool kit is Humic & Fulvic Acids.




It can bind to and eliminate glyphosate. Humic & Fulvic is almost always a component of the supplement routine I suggest for my clients. If you want to talk more about which supplements you need to heal your gut, let’s talk! 
We can review your health history and I’ll outline a personalized vitamin and supplement recommendation tailored for your needs.
If you have any questions about Glyphosate or just aren’t sure where to start, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I’d love to talk with you about your gut health journey and do what I can to help you get where you want to be. 

Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
The Unfortunate Expert

Should You Go Gluten-Free?
June 29, 2020 
I mentioned last week that when I went gluten and dairy-free to address my Crohn’s symptoms, it was difficult to find food substitutes. Nowadays, many grocery stores offer extensive options for people who have food sensitivities or allergies. Despite the ease with which many of us are able to locate foods that meet our nutritional and gut-health needs, some people are still skeptical.
Have you heard any of these?
Why is everyone going gluten-free these days? 
When I was your age, we just ate regular bread and we were fine.
Organic food is just another way for business to make money.
Gluten-free is just another fad.

What Is Gluten Anyway and Why Is It Suddenly A Problem?

From genetically modified foods to herbicides and pesticides, high fructose corn syrup to gluten and nutrient depleted soils, our foods have changed a great deal in the last fifty years. There are many concerns to consider with our modern diets, but today I want to talk about gluten.
A Mayo Clinic study found that gluten intolerance is four times more likely to occur in a person today than in 1950. And gluten is in SO MUCH of what we consume and use—it’s not just in bread! From chewing gum to lipstick, we are exposed to this substance far more than Americans in previous generations so it makes sense that we would see an uptick in gluten sensitivities. 
But what is it? “Gluten” is a mixture of two proteins that are found in barley, wheat and rye. Gluten is necessary for these grains to survive and it’s responsible for the elastic texture of dough and for helping bind it together. 
Gluten is a common inflammation-causing substance that can be hard to avoid. It can damage the tight junctions of the gut, resulting in what’s referred to as “leaky gut”. This is when certain particles that should stay in the digestive tract leak out through the damaged gut lining, triggering an immune system response. There is even evidence that leaky gut is a pre-cursor to autoimmune disease.
Not everyone will feel the effects of consuming gluten. Some are more sensitive to it than others and the symptoms that are experienced with gluten sensitivity are not the same in everyone. 

Who Should Go Gluten Free?

There are a variety of reasons people choose to go gluten-free. For some, it’s because of a celiac disease diagnosis. For others, it’s because of Crohn’s or Colitis. Others have gone gluten free to treat symptoms associated with autism, ADHD, migraines and joint pain. Many people who haven’t received a diagnosis just know that they feel objectively better without it. They report more energy and clearer thinking.

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So I Should Get Rid Of It, Right?

Not so fast! If you’ve faced chronic digestive problems, it’s important to gather all the information you can about your symptoms so that you can choose a path to gut-healing that is right for you and your situation. Before you wave goodbye to any type of food, you should consider the benefits of a Food Inflammation Test (FIT) and subsequent elimination diet.

A What?

I know it sounds severe, but it’s not so scary. A FIT test is a simple blood test you can do from home that identifies foods that cause inflammation in your body, ranked by the severity of the inflammatory response. An elimination diet is simple removes the most inflammatory “problem” foods for a period of three to six months, then reintroduces them to observe how your body responds. This test is backed by science and you might be surprised by what you find! 
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What Do I Have To Give Up?

Always remember—you don’t HAVE to give up anything. Instead, view the process as a CHOICE. You are CHOOSING a healthier life. You are taking control of your gut health journey and you should be empowered by that choice. 
Elimination diets can vary but some common food triggers are dairy, gluten, soy, nuts, nightshade vegetables and seafood. The FIT test takes the guess-work out of which foods are causing your symptoms.


Where Do I Sign Up?

If you are tired of dealing with digestive symptoms that are preventing you from living your best life, please reach out to me. I would love to talk with you and see if what I do would help you. 
Schedule a free 20-minute telehealth consultation  where we can talk about where you’ve been and where you want to be. 
We can discuss the options that many of my clients have found success with, including testing and an elimination diet made for YOU. 

Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert

Food Sensitivities: Where To Start
June 21, 2020 
I remember back in the day when I first started eating dairy-free and gluten-free in an effort to ease my digestive issues. It was sometimes really hard to find foods I could eat!
But today is a totally different story! The food options for people with digestive issues and food sensitivities just seem to be growing. There are now entire aisles at some grocery stores dedicated to foods for just about any diet. There are options for vegans and vegetarians, gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-FODMAP options. 
It can be easy to find what you need if you know WHAT you need. But what if you don’t have a diagnosis? How do you know where to start?
The writing on modern food sensitivities is extensive, so I won’t go into too much detail here, but below are some well-known culprits.

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Gluten


Gluten is a protein that can trigger issues in the small intestine. For people with celiac disease, gluten is especially harmful, affecting the body’s ability to absorb important nutrients. Some studies have shown that patients with IBD benefit from a gluten-free diet. These studies, though not extensive, showed that patients with IBD symptoms experience relief after adopting a gluten-free diet.

Sugar

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Everyone knows that too much processed sugar isn’t good for you. You might clean up your diet and get rid of sweet treats and sodas, but there are often sneaky, hidden sugars in foods like salad dressing and soup! Too much processed sugar can have a negative effect on gut bacteria and that impact can create an imbalance of the bacteria needed for proper digestion. Sugar can also cause hormone imbalances that affect digestion and can wreak havoc on your body by triggering inflammation.
With that said, don’t be afraid of sugar in its natural form (honey, maple, syrup, cane sugar).  Sugar in its cleanest forms, and in moderation, actually aids in digestion and powers our systems with minimal effort from your digestive system to break it down. Natural sugars are all a much better choice than artificial sweeteners.

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Dairy 

Although many dairy products contain important vitamins like Calcium and Vitamin D, dairy can be one of the biggest culprits for distress on the digestive health journey. Just like gluten and sugar, dairy can cause inflammatory responses in the body that trigger digestive issues. It can also be just as tricky because dairy can hide under other names like whey and casein.

Now What?

So, what does this mean for you? Should you just get rid of it all? 
I’ve had many people come to me with digestive symptoms but no diagnosis. They know that something’s wrong, but they just aren’t sure what. Some of them are skeptical about “giving up” the foods they love and others are willing to try anything.
It’s important to get as clear a picture of your situation as possible. Eliminating everything isn’t helpful nor is it a sustainable way to eat long-term. And how do you know which foods are causing your issues and which your body is processing perfectly well? 
This is where food journals and an involved, supportive team come in. It’s also where I can help with a more customized diet based on the scientific results of your Food Inflammation Test. 
After a Food Inflammation Test, you may even be surprised to learn that you may not have to give up your favorite foods! Or you may be even MORE surprised that the foods you thought were fine (and that you may eat every day!) are the ones behind your issues.
If you suffer from digestive symptoms like diarrhea, bowel urgency, cramping or bloating or have been diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease) or IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and you’re tired of suffering, let’s talk. 
I can offer you guidance, scientific testing, and support on this journey to gut health. I know I can help you feel better! 
Schedule your free Telehealth consultation with me here and let’s create a plan that gets you where you want to be. 
Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert 


Exercise and Gut Health
Gut Health 
Did you know that regular exercise not only affects your heart health and overall strength but can also have an impact on your gut health?

Beneficial Bacteria

We know that exercise lowers stress levels, releases feel-good endorphins, and is good for both mental and physical health. But the benefits don’t stop there. Recent studies show that people who exercise regularly have healthier guts! One study in particular revealed that participants with healthier cardiorespiratory systems had more beneficial bacteria in their digestive systems and, as we know, a balanced gut means more energy, fewer digestive problems, better sleep and less stress.

The Gut/Brain Connection

We’ve talked here about the connection between the brain and gut and exercise plays a major part in keeping their communication positive. Exercise lowers stress levels, which can positively impact the stress-related flare ups that so many of us experience.
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But What About My Symptoms?

If you are managing symptoms associated with IBS or IBD, regular exercise can be challenging. Rigorous exercise can exacerbate digestive issues, making some activities difficult. Who wants to get three miles into a hike and have to use the bathroom? And fatigue and joint pain are also very real issues that come along with autoimmune and digestive diagnoses.
Here are 10 ideas for getting some movement into your day when you’re experiencing a flareup or just not feeling well.

Find A Situation That Makes You Comfortable

Although there can be many concerns when it comes to exercising with gut-health issues, research shows that those with autoimmune disease and digestive issues benefit in the long-term from regular movement. So, for the sake of your overall health and wellbeing, it’s important to find a form of exercise that works for you. Choosing activities that work for you at this point in your journey can make a huge difference!
If exercise hasn’t been a regular part of your life for some time or ever, summer is a good time to introduce some movement to your life. In many places, gyms are still closed because of COVD-19, but there are so many great options out there like Zoom classes and Facebook and YouTube workouts. 
Or, just get outside and move! Feeling sluggish and tired? Antsy and stressed? A walk around the block or a hike at a local park can be an immediate mood booster.

Go with The Flow

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Exercising with IBS and IBD can be easier said than done. I understand that there are very hard days (and weeks and months!). Be patient with yourself as you find what works for you. But don’t lose sight of the fact that movement can do a lot for your symptoms. Maybe a HIIT workout isn’t in the cards for you today, but a brisk walk is. Be flexible with yourself!
And if you are struggling to find the motivation to take charge of your gut healing, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I am always happy to talk. 
Schedule your free Telehealth consultation here and let’s create a plan that gets you where you want to be. 
Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert 

Why Mindset Matters
Gut Health  
The road to gut health isn’t always a straightforward one. It might seem like this is easy for me to say since I’ve found a path that works for me, but I know what it’s like to see the doctors who don’t seem to understand, read the books with conflicting information, and look for the “magic pill”.  I’ve dealt with the stress of socializing, wondering where the closest bathroom is. I know what it’s like to make decisions from a place of fear and I know what it’s like to be angry and discouraged. If you’ve been facing uncomfortable, even painful digestive symptoms for any length of time, it can be easy to lose heart.
I get it. I’ve been there. I understand.
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Does any of this sound familiar?

Anger
Why is this happening to me? It isn’t fair. My body hates me. No one else I know is facing this. I have things I want to do with my life and my diagnosis and symptoms are getting in the way. 

Fear
Nothing is working. What if I’m still facing these issues in a year? In five? I’m too afraid to attend events or to see friends. What if…? What if…? What if…?

Hopelessness 
There’s no point in trying anything else. Nothing works. I guess I just have to deal with this. 

Shame
What did I do wrong to deserve this? This is so embarrassing. I can’t talk to anyone about this. It’s just too much. 

It’s important to know… ALL of these feelings are completely normal. Anger, fear, shame and hopelessness are common emotions associated with chronic illness. But I want to encourage you to change your perspective on your gut-healing journey and set goals for your gut health from a positive place—no matter how long the road has been. 
Here are a few things you can focus on to get started:

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Watch Your Words
It can be easy to speak negatively about the experience you’re having. “My body hates me” is a common statement I hear from my clients. One of the action steps I use with them to break this cycle has to do with speaking to your body like a friend in need. Self- talk tends to be really negative and if we imagine that our gut/stomach/body is "separate" from us, we then speak to "it" in a more supportive way. Notice how often you’re speaking and thinking in a negative way. Instead, use your words and thoughts to offer yourself hope and encouragement. And if that doesn’t work, see below!

Don’t Isolate Yourself
The internet and social media have made gut-healing-community-building possible. There are SO MANY resources out there! Reach out to others in this community. Reach out to me! Talking with people who understand what you’re struggling with can be really helpful in changing your mindset about the situation you’re in. 
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Your Body and Your Food Are Not the Enemies
Setting health-related goals from a place of shame won’t get you far. In the same way, hating your body as it currently is, or vilifying food or a healthy diet won’t lead to healthy outcomes either. I know it can be frustrating to avoid certain foods because of digestive symptoms. Often times, healthy eating is perceived as very restrictive. But shifting your mindset about what you “can” and “can’t” eat is important. Remember, you are “allowed” to eat anything you want, but you are “choosing” to only eat foods that support your healing journey. This is an empowering way to look at the foods you choose. You are in control!
I know what you’re facing hasn’t been easy, but please remember that you aren’t alone. I’m available to talk and would love to support you in any way I can. Schedule your free Telehealth consultation here and let’s create a plan that gets you where you want to be. 
Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert 




Summertime And Your Gut Health
Gut Health, General Wellness  
I talk with my clients a lot about the puzzle pieces that all need to come together for good overall health. A balanced diet, restorative sleep, appropriate movement, and stress management are key components when considering a person’s gut healing journey.
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But did you know that these components that are so vital to gut health might look different as the seasons change?
Think about it—summer is associated with heat, light, and movement. In the summer months we find ourselves outside more, soaking in the sunshine, eating refreshing foods, and looking for creative ways to keep cool. During the winter months, as the days grow shorter, there’s a tendency to hunker down, hibernate, and eat heavier foods that bring comfort and warmth.
As we head into the heat of summer, it’s important to consider how those puzzle pieces might be affected by the season. So…what does this mean for you right now? Here are some things to consider:

Stay Hydrated

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As you spend time in the heat, make sure you’re drinking enough water. And if you’re looking for a substitute for soda or a sugary drink (which I HIGHLY recommend!), check your local grocery store for Kombucha. This fermented, carbonated drink is full of probiotics and research shows it can promote gut health.








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Eat With The Season

Nutrient-dense foods are the foundation of a strong immune system and fiber is essential to gut health (even for those of us with digestive issues). You can fuel your body with both by building your meals around the season’s fresh produce. Leafy greens topped with grilled asparagus, chopped apples or blueberries make for the perfect summer salad. Add some grilled salmon or chicken for protein. Get creative and make it as colorful as possible!If your digestive issues make it hard to process fresh produce in its natural form, try blending it into a delicious smoothie or cooking then mashing it into a soup form to make it easier to digest.

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Sleep

As much as we enjoy the longer days of summer, those extra hours of daylight can wreak havoc on bedtime. Be aware of the impact that this season might have on your sleep schedule. You might find yourself staying up later because it’s hard to unwind at the end of the day, but sleep is the time that the body recuperates and heals itself. Research shows that disrupted sleep can negatively impact our metabolism, thus shifting our eating habits and digestion. Be consistent with your sleep routines and practice good sleep hygiene. Keep the room cool, dark and avoid screen time at least an hour before bed.

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Movement

Scientists have discovered that consistent exercise can positively impact the gut’s microbiomes. One particular study showed that six weeks of exercise led to the production of inflammation-fighting tools within the gut. This same study showed that, when the test participants returned to their sedentary lifestyles, their gut stopped producing these important tools. Keeping that in mind, plan to get moving every day. The gorgeous days of summer can be a great motivator. Hiking, biking, and kayaking are just a few fun outdoor activities to get your heart rate up. Enjoy the weather, stay hydrated and wear sunscreen!


Stress Management

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While summer is the perfect time to make outdoor exercise a priority, it’s also a great time to be still to relax and rejuvenate. Getting out into nature can have a powerful impact on stress levels and meditating outside can be a really amazing experience. Research shows that stress affects gut health and digestive symptoms. If you’re feeling stressed from multi-tasking, anxious about finances or stressed about the future, set aside some time to get outside to just sit and breathe. If you’re new to meditation and are struggling to quiet your mind, apps like Calm or the Insight Timer could be just what you need. And remember that meditation doesn’t have to be a completely still practice. Walking meditation is yet another way to benefit from this mind-quieting practice.

Remember that every person’s gut healing journey is unique. Be patient as you find the right balance of these key components for you this summer. And if I can do anything to support you, don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to help! You can schedule your free Telehealth consultation here.
Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert 

Why Diet Alone Isn't Enough
May 25, 2020 
Did you know that your gut talks to your brain? No, seriously. Your digestive system contains millions of neurons that communicate with your brain in order to keep things running smoothly—or not so smoothly. In fact, the gut is often referred to as “the second brain”.



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Think for a minute… Have you ever been so stressed you just couldn’t eat? Or maybe you couldn’t stop eating? Has your stomach gotten upset on your way into a work meeting? Maybe you’ve experienced acid reflux or been nauseated after watching the news. This is your body talking to you. Often, however, we ignore these signs, chew some antacids or take some anti-diarrhea pills, and hope for the best. But it’s important to recognize that our digestive tract is directly impacted by the stress of our daily lives.
Of course, nutrition has a major effect on that gut/brain connection, but stress is also a major player in this connection. Research shows that stress can affect gut bacteria which, in turn, impacts energy and mood.
For many, digestive relief can be achieved through supplements and diet modifications. These are important pieces in the gut health puzzle. We might know, for example, that greasy foods can cause us diarrhea or caffeine gives us painful stomach cramps. We might try going without these items and see a change, but if stress is a regular part of your life, relief from symptoms could be short-lived. 

Ways Stress Can Affect the Gut

Stress can: 

-cause the food you’ve eaten to move more quickly through your body

-cause constipation and diarrhea

-can create painful air bubbles

-can cause indigestion

-can make the symptoms related to IBD and IBS more painful and frequent

If you’ve made some dietary changes but are still struggling with painful symptoms related to Crohn’s or Colitis, it might be time to consider whether or not you have a healthy outlet for the stress in your life. 
If you need support as you come up with a game plan to address each important piece in the gut health puzzle, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I love talking with clients about what they’re facing and how we can get them on the right track to healing. 


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You can schedule your free Telehealth consultation here.
Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert 


Don't Go It Alone
Crohn's, Gut Health 
By now you know my personal experience with Crohn's disease, if not click here to catch up.
Healing my Crohn's was way harder, took longer,  and was quite honestly more dangerous that it needed to be—all because I made it that way.  
In the early days of my disease I was waiting for a pill to fix me and for too long I relied on a medical model that quite frankly didn’t have answers for me.  I bought into the idea that I was just unlucky and was destined to deal with Crohn's until they found a cure. This mindset kept me isolated and stuck without health or hope.
I made things harder on myself because I was determined to "suffer" my way to health. I restricted my diet in unhelpful ways, only to realize that the physical and emotional stress of this approach and lack of nutrients made me even more sick. 
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Eventually I became jaded by traditional medicine and began to study my disease from a holistic perspective. What I discovered helped me to replace my search for a magic pill with the quest for natural herbs and supplements that would heal my gut instead of masking my symptoms.
The years I spent searching led me to piece together a healing framework that brought me health, hope and relief. Even though my journey was more difficult than it might have otherwise been, I don’t consider it wasted because I am now equipped to help more people who struggle with urgency and diarrhea get well. I believe I can help them avoid the pain, missed opportunities and expense that I suffered. I can walk with them through the hardest part of their journey with digestive issues and offer them support and options.
I am not bashing traditional medicine and am truly thankful for the resources and options available to us in this country. (I have written about my perspective on that here.) I realize the risk that can be involved in looking elsewhere for healing and I’m sensitive to that with all of my clients. I know that every person’s journey is different and it can be frightening to consider a path that doesn’t look to traditional medicine as the ultimate answer.
The truth is that your approach to healing should depend on where you are in your healing journey. It shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all approach. It should meet the needs you have now and offer you a long-term plan to gut health.
If you’re exhausted from hitting dead ends in your healing journey, I’m here to help. You don’t have to face this experience alone. Schedule a free 20-minute Telehealth consultation with me and let’s talk about where you’ve been and where you want to be. I’m happy to support you.
Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert 

How Sleep Affects Gut Health
May 13, 2020 
The impact of diet on gut health is well-established but did you know that your sleep habits themselves may be wreaking havoc on your gut as well? Or…that poor gut health may interfere with your sleep quality?
But research shows that sleep may be just as important for a healthy gut. When our sleep is disrupted, stressful, or not plentiful enough it can disrupt the gut microbiome in several ways. 

Poor sleep can lead to a decrease in beneficial bacteria, cause increased inflammation in the body, and disrupt your hormone balance. This includes the hormones that regulate hunger. 

When your hunger hormones are not balanced, the result is often overeating or choosing foods that are not the most beneficial for your health (ie: sugar!).

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Here are three simple steps you can take today for better sleep tonight: 

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1). SLEEP HYGIENE
You’ve probably heard this a thousand times—limit your screen time before bed! From your smartphone to your television, these devices affect your body’s internal clock, making it hard to fall asleep quickly. Experts recommend avoiding screens for an hour before bed to begin signaling to your body that it’s time for sleep. 





2) DIET
Avoiding processed foods high in sugar and loading your plate with nutrient-dense foods instead is one of the most important keys to gut health. And studies show that limiting meals and snacks to three hours before bed can make for better sleep. If your diet and eating habits are on point but you notice that certain foods make you feel bloated or lethargic, you might consider taking a food sensitivity test (link).
3) PROBIOTICS
As we know, bacteria in the gut helps keep your digestion healthy and in check, but when something’s off in the gut, you can experience inflammation in other parts of the body. Probiotics have been shown to help the gut by conditioning the gut coating and potentially 
replenishing your natural stores of beneficial bacteria. 
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During one six-week study, researchers gave 18 healthy volunteers different probiotic strains and another 15 people a placebo for six weeks. The scientists assessed how well the participants slept throughout the study. The volunteers who took probiotics slept better and experienced less fatigue than those who took the placebo.

I’ve revealed some of my favorite go-to brands in my free supplements guide, but it’s recommended that you meet with an expert to determine the best supplements for your unique situation.

If you’re interested in taking a food sensitivity test or starting a probiotic regimen, please be sure to reach out! I’d be happy to talk through your specific experience and determine the next best steps for your situation.
You can schedule a time that works best for you here.

Happy healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert 



Humic & Fulvic: A Must Have for Good Digestion
Gut Health, General Wellness 
Choosing supplements can be overwhelming, but I’d like to share with you what I consider my “go to” supplement for overall health: Humic and Fulvic. I consider it a foundational necessity.
Dr. Troy Willis: Supplements for Digestive Health
While it is a very safe supplement, there is a method its use and it is important to work with someone who is experienced so that a proper dosage can be decided upon. An experienced professional can also walk you through any side effects that might come up. 

What It Is

Fulvic and Humic acids are components of humus (no, not the bean dip) and humus is essentially a component of healthy soil. They are two powerful molecules of many that are  left behind as plant and animal matter decay into its most basic chemical elements. Fulvic and Humic acids are keys to life as we know it and, while they have been used in ancient cultures for many years (see shilajit), their availability in nature is minimal in our modern world due to environmental toxins, pesticides, and other damaging agricultural practices.
The quality Fulvic and Humic acids depends on the quality of the soil, which is why supplement companies are going to great depths (literally) and to the ends of the earth (kind of literally) to extract these lost substances from the best sources. 


What It Does

Top Supplements for Good Digestion
Electrolytes and other trace minerals found in this supplement are crucial to proper metabolic functions, intestinal health, and nutritional assimilation. The microorganisms we obtain from Fulvic acid can lower many unwanted intestinal symptoms like constipation, bloating, diarrhea and food sensitivities.
Besides providing natural nutrients, fulvic acid improves the transport of vitamins and other nutrients to cells and increases the absorption rate of nutrition by its chemical makeup.
Another benefit of taking Fulvic and Humic supplements is that it has been reported to be pH balancing, which can protect against an excessively acidic environment.
It's been shown that Fulvic acid solution has several antioxidant properties as well and has the potential to safeguard against cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer's disease. Studies also show that Fulvic acid may help lower the incidence of tau fibrils that are considered to be precursors to brain diseases. Humic acids can be beneficial for digestive function and for their detoxifying ability to bind waste and metals that enter your body through food, water, prescription drugs, home products and the environment. These amazing mineral complexes, studied by Biomic Labs have been found to offset damage to the gut lining caused by a specific pesticide called Glyphosate, which is the chemical found in Round Up.
For these reasons and my personal experience with it, I consider Fulvic and Humic supplementation to be an integral part of healing in today's toxic world.


My History With F&H

I learned of this stuff from a brilliant, triple board certified doctor named Zach Bush.  I listened to several interviews with him on podcasts and they were eye-opening to say the least. Hearing him helped me connect the dots about the three evil g's : Glyphosate, Gluten, and GMO's.  

One of his best interviews can be found here .  

Halfway through this interview, I was like, "Whatever he's selling, I'm buying!"  What he was selling was called "Restore", which has recently been renamed "Ion Biome". (like the below video shows). 
I choose to get my H&F from a company called Mother Earth Labs. They are reputable, caring and offer more concentrated supplements for less money. I often get on the phone with the chief science office there when I need some cell biology help. It has been an imperative part of healing my gut and should be for you as well.
I hope this  post serves you well in your journey to digestive health and I'm happy to help in any way I can. What I've learned in 30+ years fighting this battle is that none of us are perfect.  The diseases and issues related to gut health are often frustrating and we need support. 

Top Supplement for Digestive Health
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
“The Unfortunate Expert”

GREAT NEWS!!
If you’d like a personalized plan for choosing the right supplements in the right dosages for you, I’m now offering Personalized Supplement Plans!





The Power of a Home Sanctuary
April 13, 2020 
How is it already April? Time for rain showers and spring cleaning, right? This year though is different. Many of us are working from home right now and haven’t spent this much time at home well, ever. Others are on the frontlines—those working in the medical field, law enforcement and grocery stores (THANK YOU!).  
Whether you’re home more often or not, it’s important for all of us to have a Home Sanctuary—especially when facing so much stress and fear. Recharging the mind, body, and soul is vital to our health and overall wellness and our living space can help or hinder us.
Being home so much can create many challenges—especially since our options for getting out are incredibly limited. Because of this, it’s important to check in and notice how your space is affecting your wellbeing. In the last couple of weeks, have you noticed anything about your home that maybe you hadn’t before? Maybe a spot on the wall that you’ve never seen or dust on the baseboard? Maybe a neglected project or pile is screaming your name—the hall closet that’s crammed with linens you never use or the mystery boxes piled high in the garage. I painted my son's bedroom. That's proof that things are crazy...I'm painting! And guess what...I'm actually enjoying it!
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Take a moment and ask yourself if your living space is a restful one. If not, why not? Did you know that clutter in a living or workspace can create negative psychological effects? It’s true! It can impact your ability to focus, the deepness of your sleep and can add to feelings of anxiety--all of which affect gut health! Our surroundings have a direct impact on the choices we make and, from exercise to diet, can get in the way of healthy choices. 
According to Psychology Today, “clutter compromises an individual’s perception of home, and ultimately feelings of satisfaction with life… many people identify so closely with their home environments, the extent to which it’s cluttered can interfere with the pleasure they experience when being in that environment.” Wow. And an Australian-U.S. study that was conducted in 2017 “showed that people will actually eat more cookies and snacks if the environment in which they’re offered a choice of foods is chaotic, and they’re led to feel stressed.”
So, although I’m interested in talking about gut health, it’s important that we also consider the effects the stuff in our home has on our WHOLE health. We can’t underestimate the effects of a stressful environment on our immune system and gut health. During times of high stress, the digestive symptoms associated with IBS, Crohn’s and Colitis can be exacerbated. Our lives look very different than they did just a few weeks ago and, although there’s much we can’t control, we can take control of our space and the impact that space has on our stress levels and, ultimately, our digestive health.
Take a couple minutes to reflect on the time you’ve been spending at home lately. How has your environment affected your productivity? What about your rest? Are you empowered by your space or does it leave you feeling cranky and stressed? 
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When we start with small changes—cleaning out that linen closet or trashing the boxes of unnecessary stuff—those changes snowball into bigger changes and can ultimately bring about the fresh start we’ve been looking for. 

Start small and begin the paring down process by trying the following:

1) Make a list

What rooms need some attention? How do you feel when you’re in them? 

2) Make a schedule

Create accessible goals for yourself this week. Vow to clean out the pantry on Tuesday and the kitchen junk drawer Wednesday. Set a timer at the start of your project and you may find that you just want to keep going!



3) Notice what changes

Once you’ve cleared out or organized the first space on your list, notice how you feel. Are you lighter? More focused? And, once that space is cleaned out and better organized, are there noticeable changes in your stress level and digestive symptoms?
I’d love to hear what spring cleaning looks like for you this year and how the act of paring down affects your perspective in this challenging time we’re living in. 
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
“The Unfortunate Expert”



Mindfulness In Times of Stress
General Wellness 
In times of high stress, it can be easy to be carried from one chaotic moment or thought to the next. This seems to be especially true right now. For many of us, the news is on in the background constantly and we scroll through the headlines looking for the latest updates on what is happening in the world around us.

Creating a quiet space in the midst of all of this information overload can be a challenge but being mindful is vital to our well-being.



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Sometimes we may not even realize that we have increased underlying anxiety or worry that can further impact our physical health- especially our digestive health.

Practicing mindfulness simply means “being present and self-aware” and meditation is a fantastic way to achieve that. 

Meditation has so many benefits. Research shows that it can reduce anxiety, improve sleep, decrease blood pressure and even reduce pain. 

I do absolutely realize that meditation can be intimidating. I used to have a really hard time sitting quietly with myself for more than a couple minutes when I started. There's a reason it's called a meditation "practice". 


So I want to share a few resources here that have been helpful to me and my family.

Calm App

One of the first meditation apps that I tried. I really liked how I was able to relax when I used it. There are even meditations guided by LeBron James and Matthew McConaughey. What could be better than having Matthew McConaughey guide you through a meditation?


Headspace

Headspace is an app that really saved my family in a time of need. It is an online library of different meditations that are categorized by subject and need. I originally started it by trying their free 10-day 10-minute meditation series. It was incredibly helpful because it teaches the fundamentals of meditation. It's great for a beginner and family friendly. I mentioned that it helped my family immensely and here's how: through the years, my oldest daughter has had trouble sleeping. When we started using the Youth Restful Sleep Meditations at her bedtime, it dramatically improved her ability to fall asleep.


Waking Up App 

This is the newest one I'm trying- it was created by neuroscientist Sam Harris. I'm just getting into it so if any of you have experience with it or have others to share, please let me know!
Now is the perfect time to add a healthy habit like meditation to your routine. A lot of us have more time on our hands so why not? Start small and remember that it takes practice to quiet the mind. Begin with 5 minutes each day and work your way up. Research shows that a regular meditation practice can improve, not just your mood, but the actual functioning of your brain and nervous system. Who doesn't need that?
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis“The Unfortunate Expert”

The Power of Probiotics
Gut Health 
Research has shown that your digestive tract—commonly referred to as “the gut”— can affect everything from your ability to absorb nutrients from food to seasonal allergies to your mood. 
Bacteria in the gut helps keep your digestion healthy and in check, but when something’s off in the gut, such as a bacterial imbalance or a leaky gut, it can contribute to chronic inflammation in other parts of the body causing fatigue, mood swings, autoimmune issues, and digestive distress amongst a host of other possible symptoms. 
But how do you support the healing process in an area of the body you can’t even see? Eating a whole food diet is one way and supplementation, when done properly, can be an effective tool in the healing process. 
Now let’s be honest here. The supplement aisle at the health food or grocery store can be an overwhelming place! It can be difficult to know which products will be most effective, which is why I recommend doing your homework beforehand. There are many varieties of helpful supplements, but today I want to focus on the power of probiotics.

In a nutshell, probiotics are beneficial bacteria—living microorganisms that keep the gut functioning properly. We now realize our overuse of antibiotics, antimicrobial soaps, and certain aspects of our modern lifestyles have wiped out a huge percentage of the bacterial diversity in our guts, causing us to be sicker and less resilient. 
Thankfully, we are learning more about this amazing bacterial world every day and there are several probiotic strains that have been shown to help support digestive function by replenishing our guts with beneficial bacterial and protecting the gut lining from further destruction. Research confirms the effectiveness of probiotics on healing the gut, but there are many types of probiotic supplements. 



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Probiotics come in the form of capsules and powders and even through fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut. When you shop for probiotic supplements, you will often see a potentially confusing mix of numbers and names. The first number listed is usually the amount of "probiotic" in each capsule. It is measured in what's called - Colony forming units - CFU's - simply put, how much of the good stuff is in there. You will see numbers like 5 million all the way up to 300 billion on the label indicating what is in each capsule. They are priced according to the "more is better" method but that isn't the whole story. The strains (types) of bacteria that are inside matter as well.

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Probiotics have been shown to help mend leaky gut by conditioning the gut coating and potentially replenishing your natural stores of good bacteria.  Since probiotics play such an essential role in digestive function, you may even notice physical changes when you start supplementing with them. It isn't uncommon to see improved bowel motion, increased energy and less gas and bloat once you find the probiotic strains that work well for you.
But probiotics aren’t only beneficial for digestive health. Research studies show that they can help with heart health, eczema, weight loss and mental health! 

I have a few "go to" brands but the simplest recommendation for those of you dealing with diarrhea are to look for a fairly diverse (7-15 strains) probiotic that includes the Bifido and Lacto families with at least 50 billion CFU's per capsule to start with daily. Eventually you may not need this many or at all! Your individual health history, lifestyle, food choices and more all contribute what and how much is ideal for you.
To learn more about probiotic supplements and my “go to” brands, be sure to grab my free Digestive Health Supplements guide, which you can get here. 
Remember, these are only general recommendations. Please check with your healthcare provider before taking any new medications or supplements and remember that personalized care is the best approach for success as it can take time to find the right combination of supplements!
If you have questions or would like my help in creating your custom roadmap to end your diarrhea and bathroom urgency, just reach out to me at: drtroy@drtroywillis.com
Or schedule your own free Meet & Greet Consultation here.
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis“The Unfortunate Expert”


3 Tips for Strong Gut Health in Stressful Times
Gut Health, General Wellness 
Hello! Dr. Troy here! First of all—how are you doing? No, really. How are you?
It would be an understatement to say that we are accustomed to enjoying the freedom and safety that comes with being an American. There’s so much uncertainty surrounding the daily developments of COVID-19, but this new environment also has a lot of us feeling like we’re losing our freedom. We’re afraid for our health and the health of those we love, but we’re also afraid of losing our lives as we know them. 

The constant barrage of news and rising numbers can create a cycle of worry and anxiety that directly impacts our health—even down to our gut. Fear can drive us to turn within and cause us to shut down, perpetuating feelings of isolation and helplessness. It can also lead us to return to unhealthy habits as a result of disrupted routines or in an effort to find comfort. All of this impacts our gut health and has a DIRECT impact on digestive an autoimmune symptoms.

So, in the midst of social distancing, when our gyms and favorite restaurants are closed, when we’re being told to stay home and can’t see the people who bring us life, when our livelihoods and freedoms are temporarily altered, how can we manage our anxiety? 

How can we separate ourselves from the fear that builds as we are confronted with the unknowns?


1) Practice gratitude

Fear and gratitude cannot coexist. Keep a notepad someplace you’ll see it throughout the day—on the kitchen counter, on your work-from-home workstation—IN THE BATHROOM! When you feel the weight of the unknowns we’re facing, jot down three specific things you’re thankful for. No, really! Try it! This simple exercise will take your focus off what’s missing and provide a momentary pause that is necessary for us to thrive in the midst of these circumstances. It will help you shake off the scarcity mindset that keeps us focused on what we don’t have right and instead bring light on what we do.
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2) Connect with others 

Do not lose touch with the ones you love! Reach out! FaceTime, email, texts, Zoom, Voxer voice memos and Marco Polo videos—these resources can blunt the feelings of isolation we’re all experiencing. My wife is participating in a Zoom Birthday party as I write this article! I’ve seen a ton of group workouts popping up via FB Live or Zoom as well! As you connect with others, do your best to limit conversations of COVID-19 and talk instead about the simple joys of your day—maybe even share your gratitude list!


3) Get outside

Spring is here and, for that, many of us are feeling grateful. Open your windows, sit on your stoop or front porch. Do laps in your yard or around your neighborhood if possible. Spread a beach towel in the grass and soak in some Vitamin D. Spending time in nature can be an immediate mood booster because it increases dopamine levels!
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There’s so much we don’t have control over right now, but let’s not focus on that. Let’s be intentional about looking at what we CAN control. Nutrition, exercise, self-care, mindset. How are you taking back your freedom? I’d love to hear about it! 
And, if you’re struggling to find or maintain gut health right now,  please don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule a free call here. I’d love to talk with you.

Happy Healing,
Dr. Troy
“The Unfortunate Expert”

BLOG

4 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY QUICKLY


Well…to say things are a bit crazy right now may be an understatement. I know this current crisis affects everyone differently…financially, emotionally, and from a health-perspective.

For me personally, it leads me to ask what I can do to help serve during this time. My plan is to keep providing information that may be useful in the hopes that I can help someone be better prepared from a health perspective.

With that said, I know we’ve all been given guidelines to help us combat COVID-19….social distancing, frequent hand washing, etc. 

However, one topic I would be remiss in not talking about at time like this is immune system health. For those of us with autoimmune issues – particularly those taking immunosuppressive medications, doing everything we can to strengthen our immune systems is vital.

So what can we do? What if I told you it all starts with gut health?

You may see yogurts or other fermented foods at the grocery store with labels that claim to be capable of “gut healing” and wonder what on earth that does that mean—why does my gut need healing? And can yogurt and other foods like it actually heal it? Well...sort of...they provide a very small piece of the bigger picture.

From skeptical to confused, I’ve gotten some pretty funny looks over the years when trying to explain the connection between gut health and immune system function. For many, words like “leaky gut” and “bacteria” aren’t a part of daily conversation. 

But understanding how our bodies work to fight infection, disease, and illness can help us pinpoint our own areas of weakness—a tactic important for all of us, but one especially essential for those with autoimmune disease or ongoing digestive health problems.


What’s the gut?

The gut simply refers to a part of the gastrointestinal system, or digestive tract. When you eat, the stomach houses the food until the gut is ready to digest it. It's where nutrients are absorbed into your bloodstream to fuel the rest of your body. 

Your gut has a protective barrier made up of “tight junctions” that allow good stuff like vitamins and nutrients into your bloodstream and, ideally keeps the “bad stuff” like waste or undigested food particles out. 

But the gut doesn’t only digest food—it’s also where enzymes are created that fight harmful bacteria; it helps your body produce important vitamins, and it’s also responsible for 80% of your body’s immune function. 

Yep…you read that right! 80% of your body’s immune system comes from gut health.

With that in mind it’s easy to see why, if something is off in your digestive tract, it can wreak havoc on your immune system and the rest of your body. 

For example, if there’s too much of a certain kind of bacteria, or too little of another, the gut can’t properly absorb the nutrients that your immune system needs to function properly (and the immune system is a true nutrient hog!). 

Another common issue, especially for those with autoimmune disease, is “leaky gut”. Leaky gut occurs when the tight junctions of the gut barrier break down and begin to allow food particles, waste, and other matter into the bloodstream and the rest of the body that shouldn’t be let in, triggering an un-needed immune system response.

Some symptoms of a gut that isn’t healthy can include brain fog, constipation, fatigue, skin issues, allergies, indigestion and diarrhea. Research has shown that there is even a correlation between gut health and depression.


What’s harming my gut?

There are soooo many things that can impact our gut health. Regular use of antibiotics can have a direct impact on good bacteria in the gut. And if you’re eating a diet that is high in processed foods and sugar, it’s likely that your gut isn’t functioning at its highest potential. Other contributing factors to gut troubles are alcohol, inactivity, lack of quality sleep and chronic stress. All of these things can open up the tight junctions and lead to immune system issues.

Do any of those factors apply to you? 


What now?

The gut takes time to heal, but not as much time as you may think—some studies show that it can take as much as twelve weeks. 

But with some simple nutrition and lifestyle changes and the support of supplements, it’s possible to start experiencing improvements almost immediately! 

1) Feed your gut
Gut health can be supported by eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods every day. A Caesar salad once a week just isn’t going to cut it. Get creative with your lunches! How about a spinach salad with avocado, blueberries, salmon and almonds on it? Think about “eating a rainbow” of colors that come from whole, unprocessed foods. If you have trouble eating raw fruits and vegetables, cook and mash (if appropriate) them into a fine puree to make them easier to digest

2) Find your trigger
A Food Inflammation Test like the one I offer with my Reset-60 program can help you pinpoint the foods that are causing an immune system response when eaten. Gluten, eggs, and dairy are common triggers, but may not be triggers for everyone. I have a client who had no issues with the three mentioned above but did have issues with bananas and vanilla…who would’ve guessed it?!? You absolutely can work to heal your gut by cutting these foods out for a short period of time. 

3) Get a little help from your supplement friends 
Digestive enzymes, vitamins, probiotics and other supplements can help to encourage gut health and healing. Knowing what to take and when can be daunting, though, which is why I’ve created a supplements guide for digestive health, which you can find here. 

4) Keep moving 
Exercise is a fantastic way to promote gut health—especially cardio. How? Research has shown that the actual makeup of the gut changes during exercise. Cardiovascular exercise transports oxygen throughout the body—and that includes your gut! 

Do any these changes seem possible? Remember, this is just an overview but if you want to learn more about naturally healing your gut and boosting your immunity, don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a time to talk here! 

I’d love to talk with you! 

Happy Healing,
Dr. Troy
“The Unfortunate Expert”


I'M HIJACKING DR. TROY'S BLOG!

Crohn's, Gut Health 

Dr. Troy Willis Digestive Health Consultant & The Unfortunate Expert
Hey everyone! I’m Jaymie and I’m hijacking Dr. Troy’s blog this week! I’ve been working with Dr. Troy for the past couple of weeks and I felt compelled to share my story (he knows I like to talk- haha!).  I’m happy he agreed to share it. 😀

I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease about 12 years ago (I’m now 49 years old). Since then, I’ve had my ups and downs…mostly ups…but some pretty big downs too – including a 1-week hospital stay as a result of a severe flare up, a stricture, and several flares resulting in weight loss, joint pain, and fatigue so severe it was hard to get out of bed and get through my day.

I was taking 6-MP (Mercaptopurine) for maintenance for most of my Crohn’s journey, but my Gastroenterologist put me on Remicade infusions when I had a stricture in my colon three years ago. Being on Remicade was something I had tried to avoid at all costs, but the other option I was given was a bowel resection. I’m a Personal Trainer and I couldn’t afford the long recovery time that comes with that surgery. It was simply a cost I couldn’t afford so I very reluctantly agreed to start the Remicade.

It’s been working on the surface…my symptoms are mostly gone, I’ve regained the 20 pounds I lost with my stricture incident, and I feel pretty good…the best I’ve felt in a long time.  But I still have concerns.  I can’t be far from a bathroom in the morning and I can’t remember the last time “it” was solid (Type 6 or 7 on the Bristol Scale).  Because of this, I know I still have some underlying gut issues. Plus I think some of us with Crohn’s have felt bad for so long that we actually have a warped sense of what “feeling good” is.
I had wanted to reach out to Dr. Troy for some time but had several hesitations that kept me from scheduling a time with him. 
  1. I absolutely HATE being on Remicade…but it’s scary to think about abandoning a treatment that has made me feel better than I did before.
  2. What if he asks me to change things I’m not ready to change? What if I think I’m ready, but then I try and I fail?
  3. What if the supplements he wants me to take are too expensive?
  4. What if I invest the money in the program and it doesn’t work?

Eventually I realized that all of these hesitations were fear-based and that it was time to really dig in and fix my underlying issues.  I decided to schedule my free consultation to see what he had to say.  And I’m soooo glad I did!

Within the first few minutes of our call, I felt at ease confiding in Dr. Troy. He’s so easy to talk to and I could tell that he understood- not just the medical part, but the emotional part and the fears that go along with a Crohn’s diagnosis and healing alternatives. I felt like he truly cared and that he really just wanted to help me.

On that call he assured me that healing is not an “all or nothing” approach…that even the smallest tweaks can have a big difference. He’d outline my healing plan and would help me adjust to it as I was ready to do so. One step at a time.  He advised that I stay on Remicade since it was helping…that stopping it was something to consider down the road…in collaboration with my GI doctor and only when I was ready. I felt so relieved! 
My “kit” of supplements (minus the probiotic missing from this photo) and the FIT (Food Inflammation Test).
My “kit” of supplements (minus the probiotic missing from this photo) and the FIT (Food Inflammation Test).
It’s now been a couple of weeks since I started working with Dr. Troy. He sent me this awesome little “kit” in the mail that included three supplements (including a different probiotic than was better than the one I was taking) and a Food Inflammation Test (FIT). These things didn’t cost me any extra – they’re included in the cost of the program. 

I started taking the supplements about a week ago and OMG – what a big difference already! The number of times I use the bathroom in the morning has decreased more than half (from about 5-6 times to twice)…and it’s solid for the first time in years! I also thought my energy level was pretty good before…but it’s definitely jumped up another notch the past few days.  

And I’m surprised at how affordable the supplements will be to maintain going forward. One less time eating dinner out per month and they’re paid for – a small price for sure because they work!

I sent the FIT test in (super easy to do at home!) a few days ago and I’m eagerly awaiting the results.  I’m truly ready for whatever the results reveal…even if it’s a sensitivity to those foods I know will be hardest for me to avoid (hello, coffee and eggs!). I know Dr. Troy will give me options for replacements and tips to make the transition away from these foods as easy as possible when I’m ready. 

The bottom line is it’s my choice. Dr. Troy’s not going to make me do anything I’m not ready for or don’t want to do. 

But the truth is…he’s already helped me get into a mindset where I’m ready to make those changes. I feel better than I’ve felt in a REALLY long time and it’s only been one week. This has given me the motivation to make the more difficult changes, such as giving up coffee if that’s what my FIT test reveals. 

And the BEST part is that for the first time, I feel like I truly have a partner in my Crohn’s treatment. My GI doc is great, but I often feel like he just tells me what to do and it always includes medications I don’t really want to take long term. He admits he hasn’t been trained any other way and can only advise on what he knows. At least he’s honest. 

Dr. Troy listens and he totally gets it. He’s not going to make me do anything I’m not ready for. I’m in control.

My advice for what it’s worth….if you’ve been on the fence about reaching out for a consult…just do it. 

What do you have to lose? Dr. Troy is truly no pressure and if it’s not for you or you’re not ready…no worries.

But if you decide to work with him…I’m sure you won’t regret it. I can already tell…it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made in a long time and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me. I hope this story helps someone else.

Thanks for listening :-)
Jaymie


WHO'S ON YOUR ULTIMATE DREAM TEAM?

February 26, 2020 
Have you just been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease , IBS, or you’re experiencing debilitating digestive symptoms that just won’t improve? 

These symptoms can lead to a wide range of emotions.  You may be sad, angry, or resentful. You may wonder, “Why me?”  Maybe you’re relieved because you’ve felt awful for so long and finally you have some answers. Or maybe you’re confused and not sure how to start your healing journey…there’s just so much information out there, right?!?  

I’ve personally experienced all of these things at one time or another while on my healing journey.  And I’ll let you in on a little secret...I’m glad I did!! Those tough times were just the kick in the butt I needed make me realize I would be much better off if I didn't go it alone.

I proceeded to assemble the strongest support system possible…all the way from my GI Doctor to my wife, who is my biggest supporter, cheerleader, and advocate (she's pretty awesome!). 

While you can’t change the fact of your diagnoses, there ARE things you can do to begin to take back control of your life.  While your circumstance is certainly no fault of your own, the sooner you shift your mindset and decide you’re not a victim in this story, the quicker you become empowered to affect what can be changed in a positive way and to start really living again!

And guess what?!? You don’t have to go it alone! You can be the driving force behind creating your very own “Dream Team” of support!

It’s important to have a team you trust and can count on for guidance and support, starting with your doctors.  Whether you opt for a conventional approach (MD), a more natural approach (ND), work with a Digestive Health Consultant, or a combination of all of these, it’s important that your doctors have these characteristics:
  • Have good communication skills- they should be able to explain the “why” behind the “what” in terms you understand. 

  • Be an excellent listener – you should feel like you are heard and not “blown off”.

  • Treats you like a partner in determining your treatment plan.

  • Takes the time to thoroughly answer your questions. You should never feel rushed or like you bothering your Doctor.

  • Is open-minded and flexible. 

  • Be accessible when you need to see them quickly - It's important that you are able to get an appointment quickly when you're having an issue that needs immediate attention.  The front office should be friendly and accommodating.  
Important note! If you are not happy with any of the doctors on your team or if you feel like you aren’t being heard- I STRONGLY encourage you to continue to look elsewhere. Ask others who suffer from your same symptoms who they work with. Do some research online for alternatives outside your local area if you must. Keep interviewing until you find the perfect fit for you!

Don’t forget about your support players! 

Support players are the members of your “Dream Team” who are there to support you in ways beyond what your Doctors can do for you.

Health Coaches or Digestive Health Consultants like me who specialize in working with those with autoimmune disease AND digestive issues can help you implement nutrition and lifestyle upgrades that can have a profound effect on your healing.  

Another potential support player is your chiropractor! The chiropractic adjustment has an outstanding ability to release tension in your spine and nervous system, affecting positive change to vital parts of your body (including your organs!). Studies have recognized through MRIs the positive effect that chiropractic has on your brain through resetting the nervous system. 

Acupuncturists and massage therapists are other examples of support players who can help with aspects of your healing.

You should also have at least one person in your personal life you can count on to listen and support you as you work toward reclaiming your health. Ideally, you should be able to reach out to them when you’re dealing with a flare up, are undergoing tests, or just want to hang out and not discuss your diagnosis at all. 

The positive impact of a powerful support system cannot be overstated. Physical healing goes hand in hand with emotional healing and should not be underestimated!  

If you’re having trouble finding your own supportive Dream Team full of players you trust and can depend on, reach out. I’d love to talk with you about where to go from here. 
You can also schedule a time here!
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
”The Unfortunate Expert”
Digestive Health Consultant
Willis Wellness LLC

HOW CROHN’S BECAME MY “WHY”

If you’re reading this, it’s likely you or someone you love has been dealing with chronic diarrhea, bowel urgency, Crohn’s, Colitis, or other digestive issues that have been affecting every area of life. It can be miserable. I get it. I’ve been there myself and I know how it feels. Believe me, I truly do.

I struggled with painful stomach problems and bathroom issues for as long as I can remember and was eventually diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in my early twenties.  

My grade school years were my first memories of digestive problems.  There were instances of not making it to the bathroom in time, recurring cramping, etc. But this was my “normal”. 

In high school, after a few years of my symptoms getting worse, stabbing pains in my stomach, lots of crippling joint pain, and days of 10-12 bowel movements becoming the norm, I knew something was really wrong and finally met with a Gastroenterologist.  

I rattled off my symptom list and attempted to explain to him that they were worse when I was anxious or worried.  He being the guy with more diplomas than I, promptly explained in fancier terms that I was wrong and my newly termed “IBS” was a physical condition and had nothing to do with my high school stresses.  

I left that appointment with a Sulphur pill prescription, a suggested low residue diet, (mashed potatoes, rice, etc.) and a new concern that maybe the doctor just didn’t get it. He didn’t really know what I was going through.            

Fast forward a couple of years. I’d been through multiple medications and rounds of prednisone (ick!!) to no avail, but finally after another flare-up and subsequent colonoscopy, I was officially diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease. There was a glimmer of hope with finally having a diagnosis.  I thought, “If they know what it is, they can fix it!”  …and then the very next words out of the doctor’s mouth were: “NO KNOWN CAUSE AND NO KNOWN CURE”. The next year or two, I wore those words like a badge and they probably caused more self-destructive behavior than I’d like to admit. 

The Unfortunate Expert - Heal Crohn's Naturally - Dr. Troy Willis
Once I was diagnosed, I continued to have flare ups often. Some were worse than others, but they were always there. I was treated as traditionally with medicine after medicine with no lasting improvements. 

I continued to follow my doctor’s orders for years, only to get more and more sick. I tried many diarrhea medications, but none of them helped for very long.  I tried fad diets, sad diets, pills and potions – you name it, I probably tried it…or at least read the book. 

Looking back, I now know I wasn’t healing because my doctors and I ignored the effects of things like stress and other super important details such as nutrition and mindset. But through the years, I gradually began to learn about these things and about taking control of my health—not without struggle and lots of experimentation. 

I spent a serious amount of time and money learning what works and what doesn’t. But I finally found what I had dreamed about for so long- remission. 

Because I saw how powerful natural health can be, I was led to becoming a Doctor of Chiropractic—one of the most positive outcomes of my Crohn’s diagnosis. And I’ve incorporated the natural healing methods I’ve learned into my chiropractic practice over the past 15 years with my Reset-60 Digestive Health Program. 

This program has become so incredibly reliable in helping other people heal that I felt it was my duty to take it outside of my local community. I now offer it online so that it can reach and serve as many people as possible.

I know without a doubt it is my true calling to help others who are suffering as I once did. I know I can help them heal. To pass that what I know on to you to save you the struggle I had for so long. To simplify your path and to fast track your healing so you begin REALLY living life again. 

I know without a doubt it’s the reason I was given the challenge of living with Crohn’s. And it’s why I was granted the patience and perseverance to push on…even in those dark times when nobody really understood what I was going through.

It is possible to heal and you’re not alone in this fight. I’m here to listen…to be of service and if anything, I hope my story gives others some hope and a little inspiration.
If you know there’s got to be a better way to live but you’re not sure what to do to get there, let’s talk. You can find a time that works best for you below.

Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
”The Unfortunate Expert”
Digestive Health Consultant



FDA Compliance
The information on this blog and website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or disease. This information is distributed for educational purposes only. Please consult with your Doctor before acting on any material presented on this blog and website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have any medical conditions which require medical supervision.

Crohn's



IS COLOSTRUM SUPERFOOD FOR THE GUT?

Gut Health, Crohn's, General Wellness
When I was born in the late 70’s, it was being pushed to new families that breastfeeding was an unnecessary inconvenience and that formula provided ALL the benefits of breast milk and more.  Pediatricians were on board and there were ads in many of the popular magazines of the day touting the benefits of different brands of infant formula.  We now know that artificially made formula does not stack up to the real thing.

In addition to all the other known benefits, true mother’s milk also contains something called colostrum, a slightly different liquid that is the very first fluid produced from a new nursing mother the first two days after giving birth. Colostrum is a concentrated mix of vitamins and minerals, immune modulators, amino acids, and growth factors that transfer immunity and initiate growth. It passes on important nutrients and other components for a “jumpstart” to a strong immune system for a newborn baby.  

By beginning with formula right away instead of breastfeeding, a newborn is missing out on colostrum, which is now known to have far reaching negative effects on child gut and brain development. This crucial step in immune development is often overlooked in today’s world, which can contribute to poor health later in life.

Science has recognized the amazing healing power of colostrum and now offers it as supplements for adults with health conditions. These supplements are made from cow or goat colostrum. Don’t worry…the process of sourcing it is done humanely and still allows the baby calf plenty of colostrum as well. 

Colostrum's restorative healing components protect the cells in the lining of the intestine. Some research has even shown that colostrum has the unique capability to eliminate and stop infections and help minimize inflammation. It has also been found to improve leaky gut symptoms in human tests conducted at the Royal Medical Center in London. Colostrum is the only element that’s been tested and proven to provide these benefits. 

Personally, colostrum supplementation is one of the most powerful healing tools I have found and it has helped me tremendously. However, because it is derived from cows and goats milk,  it does contain dairy which may affect some individuals negatively. There are alternative options for those that object to or cannot tolerate dairy. Also- it’s important that it’s source is considered for safety and ethics as well. 

This is the brand I use and recommend…

Dr. Troy Willis- Digestive Health Consultant

Want to learn more about naturally healing your gut so you gain freedom back from your Crohn’s, Colitis, IBS, or other digestive symptoms? 
Let’s jump on a quick call to see if what I do is a good fit for you! I’d love to chat!


Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis


”The Unfortunate Expert”
Digestive Health Consultant
Dr. Troy Willis- The Unfortunate Expert- Digestive Health Consultant



FDA Compliance
The information on this blog and website has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration or any other medical body. We do not aim to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or disease. This information is distributed for educational purposes only. Please consult with your Doctor before acting on any material presented on this blog and website, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have any medical conditions which require medical supervision.

HOW SUGAR AFFECTS IBD AND IBS

Crohn's, Gut Health, General Wellness 
Knowing what to eat when you have Crohn’s, Colitis, IBS, or undiagnosed chronic digestive distress can be like navigating a minefield. The foods that cause issues for some may be perfectly fine for others. 

But there is one thing that negatively impacts the health of all of us universally…and it’s often referred to as a “modern-day epidemic”. 


Sugar.

Dr. Troy Willis - How Sugar Affects IBD and IBS
For me personally, my sweet tooth and my history of excessive consumption of processed sugar was a big contributor to my symptoms. 

Growing up, I was always a big kid, tall and active.  Around 5th grade, I began developing an insatiable appetite, especially for sugar! It only got worse as I got older.

In high school, I lived off Gatorade and candy. I was also experiencing many symptoms of my Crohn’s Disease such as extreme bowel urgency, going many times throughout the day, and extreme weight loss…though it had not yet been diagnosed. 

I later learned that my body was quick to digest sugars for energy because I was not absorbing nutrients as a result of my Crohn’s Disease.

Another year passed with no noticeable change in my condition: periodic bouts of extreme diarrhea that interrupted a level of general crappiness.  When I did feel good, I took every opportunity to eat and drink to excess, very likely contributing to worsening downturns in my health. Because I felt so bad, I thought… 

“I feel like crap anyway, so why not eat a 5lb. bag of gummi bears?”

This pattern only contributed to the increasingly poor choices I made, and by the time I began college, the sports teams and structure had been replaced by alcohol and erratic sleep schedules. In college the cycle continued, now with alcohol added to the mix (another quick sugar/dopamine hit).

I didn’t know it at the time, but I can surely see the pattern now. It took several years for me to learn much the gross excess in processed sugar was negatively affecting my health. 

Here’s why…

Sugar and IBD

  1. Sugar consumption can change the balance of bacteria in the gut. Imbalance of bacteria in the gut is thought to be a major contributor to disease in general, but specifically IBD and other autoimmune diseases. It also causes us to have extreme sugar cravings, prompting us to eat more sugar which causes even more damage to the gut.


  2. Eating processed sugar contributes to an inflammatory response in the body.  When sugar enters your body, your blood sugar increases which causes inflammatory messengers to increase. This in turn causes inflammation in the body. Inflammation is the root of all disease. Those of use with IBD often have inflammation present in our bodies. In fact, inflammatory markers in our blood stream is how doctors determine how active disease is at any given moment.


  3. There are several studies that indicate that sugar can suppress immune response. Many of us with IBD already have a suppressed immune system. Suppressing it even further can have an even greater negative impact.
  
It's very natural to have a sweet tooth. In fact, we are meant to eat sugar (but in the form of fruit - filled with fiber and nutrients). Unfortunately food manufacturers have taken advantage of our natural sweet tooth and bombarded us with super sweet, empty calorie, dopamine inducing processed junk. 
cecilia-par-YUg5RwlnMKc-unsplash (1).jpg
Instead of trying to force yourself to avoid sugar, make an agreement with yourself that you won't drink sugary things such as soda or sweet tea and if you are craving something sweet, choose whole, fresh, (preferably organic) fruit. It’s a great first step to replace processed sugar with whole fruit sugar.

One of my family's favorite sweet snacks are frozen grapes and frozen raspberries.  crunchy, tart, and just sweet enough! 

It's also a lot easier to replace something bad with something... less bad. So choose honey, maple syrup,  or cacao to sweeten your foods rather than processed white sugar.  

You’ll find that after a few days of this, your palate will change and the processed sweets will taste just WAY TOO SWEET! 

These small modifications will add up to BIG improvements in your symptoms in a short amount of time. Try it and let me know how you feel! 

Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
Dr. Troy Willis Digestive Health - The Unfortunate Expert

PS- If you’re interested in learning more about my methods….I’d love to chat. No sales pitch…no pressure…just a 15-minute call to connect as two humans who know suffering too well. Who knows…maybe I can even offer a tip or two to help you feel better right away! 

TIPS TO REDUCE STRESS....STARTING TODAY!

Gut Health, General Wellness 
“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.”
— William James
Hello! Dr. Troy here!
Dr. Troy Willis- Digestive Health Consultant
Do you feel like you struggle with the pressures and demands of work and life?  If so, you’re not alone.

According to a 2014 American Psychological Association report, 77% of Americans regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress.

The most common symptoms cited were fatigue, headache, digestive issues, irritability, and anger.  And it’s not getting better…almost half Americans feel like their level of stress has increased over the past five years.

Managing stress levels is important for all humans, but even more so for those who suffer from IBD (Crohn’s/Colitis), IBS, or other digestive issues. Chronic stress has a negative effect on gut health, immune system function, and is one of the most common triggers of flares or symptoms.

What EXACTLY is stress?

Stress is your body’s way of responding to any kind of demand that’s been placed on it.  Acute stress comes from singly occurring events in our lives, such as giving a presentation to a room full of people or sitting in a traffic jam.  Acute stress is normal and our bodies are well-equipped to handle it.

However, stress becomes a problem when it becomes chronic.  Chronic stress is that grinding, heavy or anxious feeling we get from life’s pressures and demands that wear us down day after day, week after week, year after year.  It can have many causes including work, finances, relationships, or constant worry about anything. 

Our bodies are not equipped to handle chronic stress and if left uncontrolled, it affects the body and the immune system.  For me personally, uncontrolled stress is the single biggest contributor to flare-ups of my Crohn’s Disease.

But don’t let all this stress-talk stress you out!  



While it’s impossible to remove all stress from our lives, it IS possible to change the way we perceive and respond to it!


 

Strategies for managing stress fall into two main categories:

 1.  Reduce the number and severity of stressors in your life.

  • Take a few minutes to identify the stressors in your life.  How do they impact you, both physically and emotionally? 
  • Can you eliminate or reduce any of these sources?  Really think about this one…what’s truly necessary in your life vs those things that may not be as important as you’ve been perceiving them to be?  Can you let the less important stressors go? 
  • Prioritize your tasks and projects.  Don’t let your to do list overwhelm you!  There will always be things “to do”. Be realistic about what you can accomplish on any given day. 
  • Be organized. Slow down to take time to organize can help everyday tasks become easier and take less time to complete. 
  • Focus on the things you CAN control, rather than what you can’t. 
  • Keep things in perspective.  When you feel anxiety or stress creeping in about something, step back and re-evaluate the importance of it in your life.  Can it be "downgraded" in importance?  Chances are it's not as big in the overall scheme of life as you originally perceived it to be 
  • Get a handle on anxiety. Is there something that is worrying you? Think about the worst thing that can happen with regards to the stressor and what the likelihood of it really happening is? You may realize you’re giving too much power to something that’s not really as terrible as you perceive it to be or that’s not very likely to happen.
  • Be OK with "good enough".  This one's hard, and it takes practice!  Whether it's a project around the house, for work, or a certain aspect of your life, things are rarely going to be perfect.  But...they are often good enough.  Can you view it differently...without anxiety or obsession?  Give it your best shot, be satisfied, then move on.   
 

2. Increase your resilience to stress to reduce the impact it has on your body and your mind. 

Dr. Troy Willis- Steps to Reducing Your Stress Starting Today
  • Have fun!  Make time for activities you like to do. 
  • Schedule daily down time, even if it’s just a few minutes.  Make self-care a priority so you can relax and recharge. It’s not a luxury - it’s a basic human need.
  • Practice mindfulness.  Recognizing little positive things throughout the day forces us to slow down and helps us feel more joy and happiness. 
  • Truly connect with others (in person or on the phone, rather than electronically).  Take the time to nourish the relationships that nourish you. 
  • Connect with nature.  Try to get outside for at least 15 minutes per day. 
  • Get enough sleep.  Sleep reduces the cortisol (stress hormone) levels in our bodies.  When we're stressed, often we don't get quality sleep.  Try going to bed a little early to give your brain extra time to "power down" before sleep. 
  • “Turn-off” your brain by practicing simple meditation/deep breathing techniques. 
  • Take time for a “digital detox” or two (or three?) each day.  Reducing screen time decreases stress-inducing stimuli.  It's really OK to not be 100% available all the time. 
  • Practice gentle movement or exercise daily. 
  • For stressors that cannot be avoided, it can be helpful to “reframe” your thoughts around them in a more positive way.  What good is coming from it?  Seeing the positive (no matter how small) in an unchangeable situation can be a powerful tool in altering the effect it has on you.  I use this one A LOT, and it works!!  It even helps to write those positives down on paper.
 
I’d love to hear from you!  What do you do to reduce stressors in your life or to increase your stress resilience? Email me at drtroy@drtroywillis.com!
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
”The Unfortunate Expert”


THE TRUTH ABOUT DAIRY

Food Sensitivity, Gut Health, Crohn's  
In my coaching programs I often use a Food Inflammation test to help us get to the source of trouble in people’s guts. 
One of the most common things that often comes up as an inflammatory substance is dairy.  And it’s kind of funny the way people react when they find out that dairy is trouble for them.
The conversation usually goes kind of like this:

I will say, “Alright, so you need to cut out milk, yogurt, sour cream, and other things like that.”

They say, “Okay- wow that’s going to be pretty tough. But I think I can do that.”
 
Then I say “Yep, and butter too…that’s dairy also.”
 
They reply, “Okay, Okay.  I think I’ve got that figured out. I can use almond milk, or soy milk, or something like that so that shouldn’t be that tough.”
 
Then I say, “Then there’s cheese.  Cheese is dairy also.”
 
And that’s when people say, “What?!?! Cheese?!? Cheese is dairy?!?”

And that’s when people struggle.
Discovering you have a sensitivity to dairy can be quite alarming- I get it!  Dairy is in SO MANY foods (and drinks) these days! How in the world do you avoid it? It’s hidden everywhere!  And it’s sometimes hard to identify it on food labels.

The first step is knowing where to look for it.  There are the obvious suspects, such as cow's milk, yogurt, sour cream, ice cream, butter, and cheese just to name a few. But what about the sources you aren't even aware of?

The FDA requires clear labeling on foods that contain milk to declare in no uncertain terms...this product "contains milk". In fact, all major allergens (including milk) are required to be listed on packaged boxes and bags, in bold and below the nutrition facts and ingredients list.

However, there are many foods and products that are not covered by the FDA's allergen labeling laws.

For example, did you know that most granola bars contain some form of dairy?  In fact, you can bet that many processed foods contain some dairy as it's a common ingredient in preservatives, fat replacements (i.e.: "low-fat" and "non-fat" items), and artificial sweeteners. 

One of the things I teach people with dairy sensitivities is how to identify it in the foods they're eating.  But...here's a tiny crash course.

  • Casein- Casein is a milk protein that often hides under several names.  It is found in protein powders and in foods such as granola, cereal bars, processed meats, and ghee. It may even be in your canned tuna, where hydrolyzed caseinate is used to enhance flavor. If you see "lactic acid" or "artificial flavorings" listed on a food's ingredient list, it likely contains casein. 


  • Whey- Whey is the "other" milk protein. It comes in a few forms and is most commonly found in Muscles Building Protein Supplements, yogurt, and cottage cheese. That translucent liquid layer you see on top when you first open your yogurt container is whey protein.  It is also used as an emulsifier in processed foods and can be found in salad dressings, protein bars, and baked goods.


  • Medications- Lactose is a sugar derived from whey. It is being added to an increasing percentage of medications as a filler that counteracts the bitter taste and helps release the medication.


So...what CAN you eat and drink that doesn't contain dairy? The good news is there are SO MANY dairy alternatives to cow's milk available these days.

A few of these plant-based kinds of milk include hemp, coconut, oat⁠, almond, and macadamia nut. 

Also, minimizing the amount of processed foods you eat and becoming educated and diligent at reading labels gives you a HUGE advantage!

And...over time, you may even discover you have a sensitivity to one type of cow's milk product, but not another. For example, milk may be a problem for you but aged cheese or kefir, which contain less lactose, is not.⁠

Regardless of whether or not you choose to consume cow milk-based products, it's always wise to work with a professional to ensure you're getting all the vitamins and nutrients you need for a happy, healthy, strong body and mind.

Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
”The Unfortunate Expert”


5 SIMPLE EATING TIPS FOR BETTER DIGESTION

General Wellness, Gut Health 
Hello! Dr. Troy here!
So let me ask you a question. How do you normally feel after eating a meal? Satisfied yet energized? Or bloated, too full, tired, and often belly-aching? 

Perhaps it’s not WHAT you’re eating, but instead HOW you’re eating it. 

It’s safe to say that eating healthy foods that nourish your body and avoiding those foods that don’t is a good place to start to help improve your digestion and relieve certain symptoms. 

But I’m going to take it a few steps further and talk about some super simple yet powerful mealtime habits that can have a big impact on how you feel after eating.


Here are my top five:

Does this look familiar?
Does this look familiar?
  1. Chew your food.
    It’s my gut feeling (pun intended!) that most of us eat too quickly and are not properly chewing our food. The result is that foods are not broken down as much as they should be when they enter your stomach. Digestive enzymes only work on the surface of food particles, so the more you chew the more surface area available for the enzymes to work. 

    Inadequate chewing makes your digestive system work harder and can even lead to decreased nutrient absorption. If you see undigested food in your stool, it’s a sign you need to slow down, pay attention to your meal, and chew your food more thoroughly. 

    Try to chew each bite of food at least 30 times. That bite of food should be in a liquid state by the time you swallow it.



  2. Drink less water.
    Yep, you heard that one correctly! ☺

    While it’s important to stay hydrated throughout the day, drinking too much water while eating a meal can dilute stomach acid and lead to more difficult digestion. Focus on staying hydrated in between meals but limit your fluid intake to less than 8 ounces during your meal. 



  3. Avoid distractions & don’t eat while on the go.
    Yep- I’m sometimes guilty! And this may be the biggest thing you can do to quickly improve the way you feel after eating a meal.   

    Because most of us are so incredibly busy or sometimes just bored, we multi-task while eating. Whether watching TV, reading the paper, checking emails or social media…we’re doing everything but focusing on the meal in front of us. And our digestion is suffering big time because of it.

    In order to digest food properly, your nervous system must be in a rest & digest state (as opposed to fight or flight). Rest & digest sends blood to your digestive organs, allowing them to secrete digestive enzymes and giving them the energy they need to properly digest food.

    When you’re stressed or over-stimulated mentally-  by the news or social media you’re watching while eating for example- it’s impossible for your body to get into the rest & digest state. 

    There are so many other reasons distracted eating is terrible for your digestion. When you’re not completely focused on your food, you likely won’t recognize that you’re not chewin enough, that you’re eating too quickly, not pausing in between bites, or even that you’re full.  All of these things can cause you to suffer from an uncomfortable, bloated belly after eating.



  4. Be grateful.
    Did you know that digestion starts even before your food enters your mouth? 

    Before your first bite, take a minute to really experience your food. How does it look? How does it smell? 

    Just seeing and smelling the food prepares your body for digestion by producing saliva in the mouth, signaling the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes and alerting the stomach that food is on the way! 

    Taking a moment to express pure gratitude for your meal also allows you to shift your focus from your current life’s stressors and to become more present in the moment helping you enter that state of rest & digest more quickly.



  5. Give a little time after more intense exercise.
    While you may have heard that you should eat a meal high in protein and healthy carbohydrates immediately after exercising, it’s better to wait just a bit to avoid digestive upset.

    Remember that Rest & Digest state? It will take several minutes for your body to come out of the flight or fight mode that it’s in during your workout.  Let your heart rate come down and your body relax before you dive into that post-workout refueling meal.


The bottom line is that simple diet and lifestyle changes may help improve some of the digestive symptoms you are experiencing.

Finding those foods that nourish you and avoiding those that are causing damage to your gut is key, but eating more mindfully is extremely beneficial and something you can start today!


Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy
The Unfortunate Expert

Dr. Troy Willis Digestive Health - The Unfortunate Expert

PS- If you’d like to talk, I’m just a phone call away…and l’d love to chat!

This is your chance to ask some questions and learn more about my approach. This free 20 minute conversation will help you decide if you would like to work with me. Available once prior to any commitments. Phone or video call, your choice.



IS TRADITIONAL MEDICINE THE ENEMY?

Crohn's, Gut Health 
The short answer is…”No!” 

Hello! Dr. Troy here!
I often think about how lucky we are to live in a country where we have so many different alternatives to health care available to us. I am personally incredibly grateful that I have the opportunity to choose the method(s) I’d like to treat (or prevent!) my various aches, pains, and ailments.
Dr. Troy Willis Digestive Health Consultant
But that freedom can also cause overwhelm and confusion for many of us. Which treatment is best for us? Which one will provide relief without causing damaging side effects? Am I choosing the right treatment for my situation?

The bottom line is that it really depends on what stage of your healing journey you’re in at that particular moment. And the approach you choose may not always be all or nothing- it may be a combination of treatments that are best for you at a given time. 

Think of it like a puzzle…all the different puzzle pieces (treatments) fitting together perfectly to complete a bigger picture. 


Traditional medicine often treats disease by simply suppressing or masking the symptoms with medications or sometimes even surgery to remove damaged organs as a “quick fix”. 


Conversely, the approach I use in my practice and the way I currently treat my Crohn’s is holistic- meaning that my goal is to consider the whole person to discover the cause of their symptoms, then “treat” those causes rather than treating symptoms. 


Now don’t get me wrong. I’m extremely thankful for the acute care that I received with traditional medicine in the early stages of my diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease. It may have even saved my life in the short-term. But acute care and long-term healing are very different. 


Long-term healing is about restoring the gut-brain connection, restoring the balance to your gut, and developing a healthy approach to how and what we eat and how we live.


So what if you’re on medications for your symptoms currently? Do I recommend stopping them against your Doctor’s recommendations?  Absolutely not. But I do believe that drugs and surgery are not the answer for long-term treatment of chronic symptoms and illness. 


This is why the Meet & Greet call is such an important step in the process of your healing journey. It helps us determine if now is a good, safe time for you to consider adding another puzzle piece with an alternate approach to your current treatment plan for long-term recovery.


The best thing about my approach is that it’s customized to you depending on where you’re at in your journey. I’d love to chat about it and learn more about your story! 
Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy Willis
The Unfortunate Expert

A COLOSTOMY BAG? NOPE!

Crohn's  
Dr. Troy Willis in Louisville, KY- Here I am at the track with ALL my body parts still intact :-)
Dr. Troy Willis in Louisville, KY- Here I am at the track with ALL my body parts still intact :-)
Hello! Dr. Troy here!
As you may know, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease when I was 20 years old, though I had symptoms as far back into my childhood as I can remember.
For months I’d been through multiple medications and rounds of prednisone to no avail, but eventually, (finally) after another flare-up and subsequent colonoscopy, I was officially diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease.  There was a glimmer of hope with finally having a diagnosis.  I thought, “If they know what it is, they can fix it!”  
…and then the very next words out of the doctor’s mouth were: “NO KNOWN CAUSE AND NO KNOWN CURE”
The next year or two, I wore these words like a badge and they probably caused more self-destructive behavior than I would like to admit.
I asked the gastroenterologist if the flare-up might have something to do with my upcoming move and the stress of beginning graduate school. He smirked and pointed to the area of my pain on a body chart and said “No, the problem’s right here, which is why I advise we remove that section of your intestine.”
Upon explaining that they could remove the diseased area and simply reconnect the healthy parts, I asked a key question…

“You just said there is no known cause and no known cure, and none of your meds have worked for me, so what keeps the next part from getting damaged?”

The answer was that if it did get bad, they could remove that as well.  In fact, he stated that a large percentage of Crohn’s patients have a bowel resection surgery, and most of those have had more than one.
At that point, I was 20 years old, had been dealing with symptoms for over 10 years, and by my math, I figured I’d run out of intestines to cut out pretty quick.  The doctor explained that if that did end up happening, they could ultimately attach a colostomy bag to my abdomen if necessary.

Nope.  Right then, I decided that I was going to go in a different direction and would no longer follow the path that doctor laid out for me that day.

He could not convince me that my stress didn’t contribute to my suffering, and I was confident that cutting things out of my body wouldn’t solve the problem.  I walked out without scheduling surgery, and ready to find my own answers to this disease called Crohn’s.

Looking back, I now realize that I chose a natural healing profession because even though I felt like my body was letting me down, I knew deep down that it was trying to heal and I was the one sabotaging it.
 

Good things happen when you get happy.

 
Midway through graduate school, I met my future wife, and strangely enough, that early period was one of my healthiest and it reinforced my belief that these conditions are not strictly physical and your mental/emotional state had more to do with it than most of conventional medicine will admit.  During these times, I was experimenting with different herbs that would provide some relief, but I’ll admit, I was also visiting the Mexican buffet frequently as well.  I’d be willing to bet these two cancelled each other out. At that time, my wife didn’t know that she was in for a rollercoaster of my health.  In fact, for a period of time, she couldn’t wrap her head around the stories I had told her about my sickness.  Eventually she would find out.

Throughout the retelling of my personal struggle with Crohn’s Disease, I have highlighted certain “mistakes” that contributed to my condition.  Most of them came from our circumstances and the current knowledge at that time.  There is no benefit to holding grudges for poor decisions. 
But there is great benefit to recognize those mistakes so as not to repeat them, then focus all energy into moving forward with healing….
And this is just one of my “why’s”…why I became a Doctor of Chiropractic, why I became a Digestive Health Consultant. I know very well if I had not questioned that doctor’s treatment plan for me that day, I could be in a different situation right now….with a few less feet of intestine and maybe even a colostomy bag. But I’m not. Now…don’t get me wrong- I’m not advising you go against your doctor’s treatment plan. I’m merely suggesting there may be other alternatives that are worth exploring and that knowledge truly is power. 
I KNOW I can help more people have the same outcome I’ve had with my Crohn’s Disease and digestive issues. 
This is my biggest “why”. What’s yours?

Happy Healing!
Dr. Troy 
PS- If you’d like to chat, I’m just a phone call away…and I’d love to talk.


The Solid Gut System  

Digestive Healing Program



If you secretly suffer from urgency or chronic diarrhea, you’ll want to keep reading…

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Does this sound familiar?

  • You’re physically drained from going #2 several times a day.
  • Sometimes it’s so urgent you barely make it to the bathroom!
  • You’re often so exhausted that it’s hard to get out of bed and get through your day with a smile.
  • You’re afraid to leave the house because you’ll have to go #2 and won’t have quick access to a bathroom.
  • You’ve tried anti-diarrhea medications, but even they don’t help! (side note: they’re actually making it worse!) 
  • Your doctor has told you the only solution is expensive, and damaging medications that may not be effective long-term.



I get it.  It’s embarrassing. It’s draining your quality of life and you’re ready for things to change.

What if I told you it doesn’t have to be this way?  That things CAN change…starting now.


That it IS possible to…


  • Regain the energy that chronic diarrhea has stolen from you.
  • End the anxiety around eating out, public events, travel, and the relationship struggles that abnormal bathroom issues create.
  • Help you heal without damaging drugs, surgery, or difficult diets.
  • Heal your leaky gut, restore your mental sharpness, and begin living the life you deserve.


My plan will get you there, and it’s easier than you may think. 


How do I know?  I’ve been there.  I’ve healed without damaging medications and so can you!


“When you have a health mentor who understands what you are going through, it makes a difference. Dr. Troy knows my goals, and is an inspiring and encouraging guide, whose recommendations are in balance with my own view on nutrition. I greatly appreciate his positive support and open-mindedness.”
— Jean M. - Registered Dietician; Louisville, KY

My Story…

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I’m Dr. Troy Willis, and I’m confident I can help you resolve your digestive problems, just as I’ve resolved both my own and many client’s bowel issues. 
You see, I struggled with painful stomach problems for years and was eventually diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in my early twenties. I followed my doctor’s orders for years only to get more and more sick.
I tried multiple medications, but none helped for very long. I tried fad diets, sad diets, pills and potions—you name it, I’ve probably tried it…or at least read the book.  
But I finally discovered the “formula” for true healing. I’m here to pass that wisdom on to you, to save you the struggle I went through and simplify your path to great health.
I know what it’s like to suffer day in and day out.  To be physically drained and scared to leave the house.
But I took action and I reclaimed my life!  
How did I do it?  Here’s how.

Introducing…The Solid Gut System.

The Solid Gut System is my proprietary digestive healing protocol. It’s designed to finally give YOU control over your digestive issues, not the other way around. 


Who does the Solid Gut System help?

Anyone who suffers from:

60 days to a new way of being

90 DAYS TO THE HEALTH YOU DESERVE…
  • frequent diarrhea
  • bowel urgency
  • cramping
  • bloating
  • other digestive concerns

Anyone who’s been diagnosed with:

  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Ulcerative Colitis
  • IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease)
  • IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

What exactly is the Solid Gut System?

It’s a multi-step plan with a personalized approach and small group support to help you heal your gut so you experience symptom relief AND life-long healing.   It’s custom designed specifically for you and your unique situation.  

  1. Direct 1 on 1 Consults - quality time with me, Dr. Troy Willis. You’ll have time to share your story, helping get to the root of your problems so that I can give you expert guidance without overwhelm. 

  2. Advanced testing - provides customized diet recommendations based on results from your Food Inflammation Test and personal history. The foundation of the program and your own “blueprint” for healing!

  3. Gut Healing Supplements - the right ones- for you specifically! No more scouring the internet, cheap knockoffs, conflicting reports, etc. No more wasting time and money on supplements that aren’t right.

  4. Lifestyle direction - real life tools to make healthy habits easy,  Access to my Rapid Relief Plan AND my Bounce Back Plan will even get you back on track if you slip (I ain’t perfect - I even eat birthday cake!)
“I had been looking for natural approaches for Crohn’s disease and as luck would have it, I met Dr. Troy at a Crohn’s & Colitis event. Since I’ve started at Live Well my disease has gotten progressively better, thanks to all the wisdom and insights from Dr. Troy. He’s always willing and excited to share what he’s found helpful to treat inflammation and digestion. I love that he’s open to new ideas and treatments and completely open minded about natural healthcare. Troy is always willing to educate and guide you to live a better healthier lifestyle. I’ve learned to manage my Crohn’s through diet and lifestyle changes with his reassurance and inspiration. I believe it’s because I found a doctor like him, that I am able to manage Crohn’s Disease without medication.”
— Misty B.~ Louisville, KY

What results can you expect from the program?

  • Reduced urgency and symptoms quickly.
  • Renewed energy to live every day to its fullest.
  • Gain control by learning the “levers” you can pull to quickly right your ship when you get off track.
  • Learn your specific trigger foods, where they may be hiding, and how to avoid them.
  • Regained confidence to live life on YOUR terms.
  • No more anxiety eating out or during social events. 


The Solid Gut System (90 day digestive program)



PRIVATE 1:1 EXPERT GUIDANCE
Reset-60 Digestive Health Program
ADVANCED TESTING/SUPPLEMENTS

How it works

  1. You complete a Personal Health Evaluation
    Through all the right questions and history, we will uncover the likely cause of your symptoms, reveal personality traits that help in our success, and provide insight into potential pitfall areas. 

  2. You receive a mailed kit with specific supplements, test kits, etc. 
    I provide advanced Food Inflammation Testing that incorporates your blood type to identify your unique eating issues.  I’ll interpret the results and advise the ideal supplements for both quick relief and long-term healing.   Everyone is different.  Your customized supplements plan will be specifically chosen for YOU and are included in the program cost.  

  3. You get weekly private 1:1 sessions (call or Zoom):
    • Review of Personal Health Evaluation 
    • Review mailed Testing Kit and Supplements 
    • Review test results and delivery a personal action plan 
    • Weekly check-ins for guidance and support

  4. Unlimited support 
    You’ll have unlimited access to me throughout the entire 90-day program via email and our online communication portal with a personal promise of a 24-hour reply.  

  5. Unlimited access to our easy to use online portal
    Access to Practice Better, which provides an easy one-stop place to snap a pic of your meals, send me a message, schedule your times, receive educational modules sent to you automatically, etc. 


Why the Solid Gut System?

  • I have personal experience with the same issues you do.  I have figured out the magic formula and I know how to help you implement it.  Bottom line…my program works!
  • The best (most relevant and most comprehensive) Personal Health Evaluation to get to the bottom (no pun intended!) of the cause of your symptoms.
  • The right tests, interpreted by me to make eating easy on you.
  • Everyone is different - you get customized supplements plan specifically chosen for you.
  • Proven methods I’ve developed to conquer your mind and balance your gut for better control of your symptoms.
  • This is not a “quick-fix” or fad diet…this is a customized blueprint that helps you live symptom-free for a lifetime.
“Just about everyone has had or currently has digestion issues, due to our food choices and mixed advice lingering out there. Dr. Troy has not only helped me, but I’ve witnessed him help many patients over the years! He knows the right questions to ask, and has a solution for everyone, even though we are all different.”
— Sarah B. - Olympia, WA

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Statements on this website are strictly the opinion of Dr. Troy Willis and are not medical advice.  All content, including text, graphics, images and information available on or through this website are for general informational purposes only and not intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease. Never rely on information on this website in place of seeking professional medical advice. The authors of this website are not responsible for or liable for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or products that you obtain through this site. Always consult your physician or health care provider before starting any health program.




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