by Madison Iannotta

Many wonder if chiropractic care can improve digestion. For years, chiropractors have reported gut health improvements in patients, from reduced bloating to relief from chronic issues. While skeptics questioned these claims, research on the gut-brain connection is revealing how spinal health may influence digestion.

Exploring the nervous system’s role in digestion—and separating helpful practices from misleading promises—can clarify what chiropractic care can and cannot do.

Chiropractic care is only for back pain.

False. Chiropractic goes beyond back pain, addressing posture, headaches, joint mobility, injury prevention, and even gut health. It focuses on optimizing the musculoskeletal system and improving overall function.

Gut health is more than digestion.

True. Gut health affects mood, immunity, skin, and brain function via the gut-brain axis and the microbiome. Misalignments, stress, or nervous system imbalances may indirectly impact gut health, making chiropractic care supportive.

Probiotics and prebiotics are the same.

False. Probiotics are live “good” bacteria; prebiotics are fibers that feed them. Think seeds (probiotics) and fertilizer (prebiotics). Needs vary from person to person.

More fiber is always better.

False. Soluble fiber feeds good bacteria; insoluble fiber adds stool bulk. Both are important, but not all guts need the same ratio.

Chiropractic care supports digestion by regulating the nervous system.

True. The gut is influenced by the vagus nerve, part of the parasympathetic nervous system. Chronic stress activates the sympathetic system, slowing digestion. Chiropractic adjustments encourage “rest and digest,” helping the body shift into a healing state.

Supplements can replace nutrients from food.

False. Supplements can fill gaps but cannot replace whole foods, which provide better-absorbed nutrients. Supplements are best as support, not substitutes, especially for deficiencies or specific health goals.

Muscle testing can help identify food sensitivities.

True. Applied kinesiology (AK) uses muscle testing to assess body function. It can detect imbalances from food sensitivities or stressors, guiding dietary and lifestyle changes to support digestion.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to gut health. Chiropractic care may be one piece of the puzzle—supporting the nervous system, addressing stress, and using tools like AK. Paired with good nutrition and mindful supplementation, it can help set the stage for a healthier gut.

Madison Iannotta, of Health Goals Chiropractic and Wellness Center, is a full-service chiropractic and wellness practice dedicated to improving patients’ overall health through personalized care, advanced techniques and a holistic approach. The practice specializes in spinal health, sports injuries, pediatric care and wellness strategies that support the body’s natural healing processes.

Health Goals Chiropractic and Wellness Center is located at 230 North Maple Ave., Ste. G2, Marlton. For more information or to make an appointment, call 856-983-5422 or visit www.HealthGoals.com.