A Case of Chronic Eczema & Psoriasis: How Addressing Gut Infections Helped
Category: Functional Medicine and Nutrition, Skin Health
Functional Medicine and Nutrition Practitioner Sunshine Coast
Discover How Targeting Hidden Gut Infections Can Transform Chronic Skin Conditions with Expert Functional Medicine and Nutrition Practitioner Shelley Cavezza, PhD
Introduction: The Link Between Gut Health and Chronic Skin Conditions
Chronic eczema and psoriasis are more than just skin-deep—they can be debilitating conditions affecting every aspect of life. Conventional treatments often focus on topical therapies and symptom management, yet many patients continue to suffer. Growing evidence points to the gut–skin axis, where hidden gut infections and dysbiosis fuel systemic inflammation and perpetuate skin flares. In this case study, we explore how addressing those infections led to dramatic improvements in one patient’s eczema and psoriasis.
The Patient’s Journey: A Struggle with Persistent Skin Issues
A woman in her late 30s had battled severe eczema and psoriasis for years—itchy, painful flare-ups that disrupted her days and eroded her confidence. Despite topical creams and prescribed medications, her symptoms persisted. A comprehensive evaluation revealed gut dysbiosis and a low-grade gut infection driving chronic inflammation.
Uncovering the Gut–Skin Connection
Research shows that an imbalanced microbiome can increase intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”), allowing toxins and inflammatory compounds into the bloodstream. This systemic inflammation then manifests in the skin. In our patient’s case, a hidden gut pathogen was keeping her immune system in overdrive, resulting in ceaseless skin inflammation.
A Functional Medicine and Nutrition Approach to Healing
We designed a personalised, four-pronged plan to tackle the root causes:
- Comprehensive Gut Evaluation
- Detailed Health History: Reviewed diet, stress levels and past gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Advanced Testing: Assessed microbiome balance, gut permeability and identified specific pathogens.
- Targeted Nutritional Strategies
- Elimination & Reintroduction Diet: Removed common triggers, then reintroduced foods methodically to pinpoint sensitivities.
- Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Emphasised whole, nutrient-dense foods—plenty of vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats.
- Gut-Healing Nutrients: L-glutamine, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants supported mucosal repair and reduced inflammation.
- Addressing the Gut Infection
- Natural Antimicrobial Therapies: Used plant-derived botanicals to target pathogens while preserving beneficial flora.
- Probiotics & Prebiotics: Customised probiotic strains plus prebiotic foods restored microbial balance.
- Digestive Enzymes: Improved nutrient absorption and reduced digestive burden.
- Stress Management & Lifestyle Adjustments
- Mindfulness Practices: Meditation and deep-breathing exercises lowered cortisol and systemic inflammation.
- Sleep Optimisation: Quality rest supported the body’s repair processes.
- Gentle Exercise: Regular, moderate movement improved circulation and overall wellbeing.
Remarkable Improvements & Ongoing Progress
Within months, her skin became calmer and more resilient. Flare-ups diminished, itching subsided and her energy levels rose. By eradicating the gut infection and restoring digestive balance, we broke the cycle of inflammation that was driving her eczema and psoriasis.
Conclusion: Embracing a Holistic Path to Skin Health
This case underscores the importance of looking beyond symptom control and addressing the underlying gut issues that often fuel chronic skin conditions. A functional medicine and nutrition approach targeting gut health can lead to lasting improvements in eczema, psoriasis and overall wellbeing.
Schedule a Discovery Call with Shelley Cavezza, PhD
This initial conversation—not a consultation—helps us explore whether a tailored functional medicine and nutrition programme is right for you. If a full consultation is deemed beneficial, we can uncover hidden triggers, restore gut health and transform your skin from the inside out.
Empower Your Health Today
Reach out to functional medicine and nutrition practitioner Shelley Cavezza, PhD, on the Sunshine Coast and begin your journey toward clearer, healthier skin.
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Contact Information
- Website: www.drshelleycavezza.com.au
- Phone: +61 419 821 666
- Email: info@drshelleycavezza.com.au
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult a healthcare professional before starting any new health programme.
