A Naturopath's Guide to Gut Health, Rituals, and Real Change
A sit down chat with Dominique McGuire from The Pillars Naturopathy.
CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW THE PILLARS NATUROPATHY CAME TO LIFE?
I’m a degree-qualified naturopath based in Manly, and the founder of The Pillars Naturopathy. I created this clinic to be a space where people feel genuinely seen and supported, especially those who have been told their symptoms are just normal. I work one on one with clients across gut health, and reproductive health, and I also run a gut-health focused program called Gut Feeling. It all started because I wanted to blend evidence-based care with real life, and give people the tools to feel good in their bodies again.
WHAT DREW YOU TO NATUROPATHY I THE FIRST PLACE?
My own health journey. I struggled for years with hormonal symptoms, digestive issues, and burnout, and kept being told that everything looked fine. At the time I was studying a Bachelor of Medical Science at university, but naturopathy helped me uncover the why behind my symptoms. Once I experienced how powerful a holistic approach could be, I knew I wanted to help others do the same. I made the decision to swap to a Bachelor of Health Science in Naturopathy and I’ve never looked back.
WHAT KINDS OF CLIENTS OR CONCERNS DO YOU MOST COMMONLY SUPPORT IN YOUR PRACTICE?
Most of my clients come in with a mix of gut symptoms, period problems, fatigue, or skin issues. They are often women who feel like they have tried everything and are still not getting answers. I also work with a lot of clients who have been dismissed or told their symptoms are all in their head. We dig deeper together and focus on restoring function so their body can actually heal.
WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY WHEN IT COMES TO HEALTH AND HEALING?
I believe symptoms are messages from the body, not mistakes. My approach is to understand what your body is trying to tell us, remove the things that are causing stress or dysfunction, and give it what it needs to heal. I use functional testing, nutrition, herbs, and supplements, but I also care about how you eat, how you sleep, how you move, and how you feel in your day-to-day life.
GUT HEALTH IS A BIG PART OF WHAT YOU DO. WHY IS THE GUT SO CENTRAL TO OVERALL WELLBEING?
Because the gut is where everything starts. It’s where we digest food, absorb nutrients, break down hormones, support our immune system, and eliminate waste. If something is off in the gut, it can show up in your skin, mood, periods, energy, and even your immune function. It really is the foundation.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MOST COMMON GUT ISSUES YOU SEE IN CLINIC, AND WHAT'S DRIVING THEM?
I see a lot of bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, reflux, and alternating bowel patterns. Often testing shows overgrowths of bacteria or parasites, inflammation, or poor digestive function. But the real drivers are often stress, under-eating, food restriction, long-term medication use, or a history of gut issues that were never fully resolved.
WHAT ROLE DO SIMPLE DAILY HABITS OR ROUTINES PLAY IN SUPPORTING GUT HEALTH OVER TIME?
They matter more than people think. Consistent meals, gentle movement, stress support, and taking a moment to slow down before eating can completely change how your digestion functions. Supplements can be helpful, but your daily habits are what keep things running well over time.
HOW DO FERMENTED OR NATURALLY ACIDIC FOODS SUPPORT THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM?
They help to kickstart your digestion. Something like apple cider vinegar before meals can stimulate stomach acid production, which improves protein digestion and nutrient absorption. Fermented foods also bring in beneficial bacteria that support your gut microbiome. These are small habits that can have a big impact when done consistently.
SISUU’S ACV TONIC IS DESIGNED TO BE PART OF A DAILY RITUAL. WHAT BENEFITS MIGHT SOMEONE NOTICE FROM INCORPORATING SOMETHING LIKE THAT INTO THIER ROUTINE?
A daily tonic like SISUU’s Fire Tonic can help reduce bloating, support better digestion, and curb sugar cravings. People often tell me they feel lighter and more energised when they take it consistently. It’s also a great way to build mindfulness into your day and start your morning with intention.
WHAT'S ONE EASY, EVERYDAY THING PEOPLE COULD DO TO SHOW THEIR GUT SOME LOVE?
Take five slow breaths before your meals. It helps shift your body into rest and digest mode so you can break down food properly and reduce symptoms like bloating or reflux. It sounds simple, but it works (and it’s free!).
HOW DOES STRESS TIE INTO GUT HEALTH, AND WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU SUGGEST FOR CALMING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM?
Stress affects everything in the gut. It slows down digestion, increases inflammation, and alters your microbiome. I often suggest things like magnesium, breathwork, being creative (e.g. lego, knitting, crochet, etc.), jigsaw puzzles, reading, walking without your phone, or nervous system support herbs. Even just five minutes of calm can make a huge difference.
IS THERE A GUT-FRIENDLY ROUTINE YOU PERSONALLY SWEAR BY?
My morning routine is non-negotiable. I start the day with movement, sunlight, protein, and usually a nourishing warm drink. I keep my meals simple when I’m busy or stressed, and I’m big on slowing down and being present at mealtimes.
FAVOURITE GUT-FRIENDLY SNACK YOU ALWAYS HAVE ON HAND?
Kooee Beef Sticks, Chief Collagen Bar, or a homemade collagen chia pudding with organic Greek yoghurt and berries. They’re easy, portable, and nourishing for the gut lining and blood sugar balance.
Head to The Pillars Naturopathy to learn more.
