Survivors of childhood sexual abuse know that trauma can affect them physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. If you’re a survivor like me, there’s a reason your stomach is in knots all the time.

It took me a long time to tackle my trauma and begin to heal. It was years before I could take those first steps toward healing from 8 long years of sexual abuse at the hands of someone I thought I could trust. I became a registered nurse and then a naturopathic doctor to help other women heal from the intimate trauma of their childhood.

Unresolved trauma can cause physical discomfort that interferes with our ability to function normally throughout the day. Our digestive system often takes the hardest hit and causes many unpleasant symptoms in trauma survivors. Abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, anxiety and other mood-related symptoms are just a few of the complaints my clients report.

For a long time, I just dealt with it — the upset stomach, the endless trips to the bathroom. It became my “normal.”

No more.

Through my training, I learned that we can begin to heal our digestive system using the incredible power of food!

My 5-Step Guide for Using Food to Improve Mood offers you practical tips you can start using today to help get your digestive system back on track and to help you create a calm, safe inner space. I follow my own advice, and my stomach isn’t in knots every day.

Try these tips and see how simple changes can improve the way you feel. 

Wishing you peace and healing.

Your Trauma and Mental Health Advocate,

Dr. Jessica Samaroo, ND