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Dr. Shustina is an incredibly knowledgeable doctor who truly takes time to find root cause.
RG
Rochel Gordon
Condition · Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Crohn’s Disease
Unpredictable abdominal pain, chronic fatigue, and digestive symptoms that fluctuate between flares and remission aren’t simply "sensitive digestion"—they may signal Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting over 750,000 Americans and approximately 6 to 8 million people worldwide. Research has established that gut microbiome dysbiosis plays a fundamental role in Crohn’s pathogenesis, with characteristic reductions in beneficial bacteria and overgrowth of inflammatory species triggering immune dysfunction and intestinal damage. Emotional stress has been implicated and observed as a trigger for the onset of disease and flares. Our comprehensive approach addresses these underlying imbalances through gut microbiome restoration, nervous system regulation, immune system modulation, and personalized anti-inflammatory protocols to achieve lasting remission and prevent disease progression.
What Exactly Is Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s disease is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterized by transmural inflammation that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from mouth to anus, though it most commonly involves the terminal ileum and colon. Unlike ulcerative colitis, which affects only the colon’s inner lining, Crohn’s inflammation penetrates through all layers of the bowel wall, leading to complications such as strictures, fistulas, and abscesses in approximately half of patients within 20 years of diagnosis. The disease results from a complex interplay between genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, immune dysregulation, and profound alterations in the gut microbiome—including reduced diversity and abundance of beneficial bacteria like Faecalibacterium prausnitzii alongside overgrowth of pathogenic species. Crohn’s typically follows a relapsing-remitting course, with periods of active inflammation alternating with periods of remission.
Types of Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is classified based on the location of inflammation within the gastrointestinal tract, each presenting with distinct symptom patterns and treatment considerations.
| Type | Location Affected | Common Symptoms | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ileocolitis | Terminal ileum and colon | Diarrhea, cramping in middle/lower right abdomen, significant weight loss | Most common type affecting approximately 50% of patients; highest risk for strictures |
| Ileitis | Terminal ileum only | Diarrhea, cramping, weight loss, fistulas/abscesses in lower right abdomen | Affects approximately 30% of patients; risk of vitamin B12 deficiency |
| Crohn's Colitis (Granulomatous Colitis) | Colon only | Rectal bleeding, diarrhea, skin lesions near anus, joint pain | Affects approximately 20% of patients; requires differentiation from ulcerative colitis |
| Gastroduodenal Crohn's | Stomach and duodenum | Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss | Less common; often undiagnosed; can cause bowel obstruction |
| Jejunoileitis | Upper small intestine (jejunum) | Abdominal pain after eating, malnutrition, patchy inflammation | More common in children and adolescents; affects nutrient absorption |
Why Crohn’s Disease Impacts More Than Digestive Health
Crohn’s disease extends far beyond the gastrointestinal tract due to its systemic inflammatory nature and the gut-immune connection. The chronic inflammation characteristic of Crohn’s triggers widespread immune responses that can affect joints (arthritis), skin (erythema nodosum, pyoderma gangrenosum), eyes (uveitis, iritis), liver (primary sclerosing cholangitis), and bones (osteoporosis). Transmural inflammation damages the intestinal barrier, allowing bacteria and toxins to enter systemic circulation and perpetuate inflammation throughout the body. Additionally, malabsorption from damaged intestinal tissue leads to nutritional deficiencies—particularly vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, and calcium—contributing to anemia, fatigue, bone loss, and impaired immune function. The gut-brain axis dysfunction associated with Crohn’s also contributes to anxiety, depression, and cognitive difficulties commonly experienced by patients.
Common Signs of Crohn’s Disease Include
Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Chronic diarrhea, often watery or occasionally bloody
- Abdominal pain and cramping, especially in lower right quadrant
- Urgency and increased frequency of bowel movements
- Nausea and vomiting
- Reduced appetite and food aversion
- Mouth sores and oral ulcers
Systemic Symptoms:
- Significant unintentional weight loss
- Chronic fatigue and malaise
- Fever, especially during flares
- Night sweats
- Delayed growth and development in children
Complications and Advanced Disease:
- Strictures causing bowel obstruction
- Fistulas (abnormal connections between intestine and skin, bladder, or vagina)
- Abscesses and infections
- Perianal disease including fissures and fistulas
- Nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption
Extraintestinal Manifestations:
- Joint pain and arthritis
- Skin conditions (rashes, nodules, ulcerations)
- Eye inflammation (redness, pain, vision changes)
- Liver and bile duct complications
- Kidney stones and urinary symptoms
Diagnostic Options at Whole Gut Health
Comprehensive Crohn’s disease evaluation requires thorough assessment to determine disease location, severity, and underlying factors contributing to inflammation. At Whole Gut Health, we use advanced diagnostics to create personalized treatment protocols that address root causes alongside disease management.
Testing options may include:
Colonoscopy with Ileoscopy and Biopsy to visualize the colon and terminal ileum, assess disease extent, and obtain tissue samples for definitive diagnosis and differentiation from ulcerative colitis. Dr. Shustina is no longer performing colonoscopies. We will review any prior records of colonoscopies. If a colonoscopy is needed during your care. We will refer you to one of the carefully screened Gastroenterologists within our network who will perform the procedure on our behalf.
Small Bowel Imaging (MR Enterography or CT Enterography) to evaluate small bowel involvement, strictures, fistulas, and disease activity in areas not accessible by colonoscopy.
Applied Kinesiology or muscle testing to help delineate root causes and confirm precise customized treatment protocols
Comprehensive Stool Analysis with Microbiome Profiling to assess gut microbiome composition, identify dysbiotic patterns characteristic of Crohn’s, and measure inflammation markers including calprotectin and lactoferrin.
Inflammatory Markers and Serologic Testing including CRP, ESR, ASCA antibodies, and pANCA to help confirm diagnosis and monitor disease activity.
Nutritional and Micronutrient Assessment to identify deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, zinc, and other nutrients commonly depleted in Crohn’s disease.
Short-Chain Fatty Acid Analysis to evaluate gut bacterial metabolism and butyrate production critical for intestinal healing.
SIBO Breath Testing since small intestinal bacterial overgrowth frequently coexists with Crohn’s disease and requires concurrent treatment.
We customize testing protocols based on symptom patterns, disease history, and suspected contributing factors to ensure comprehensive evaluation and optimal treatment planning.
Our approach
Why Whole Gut Health is different
At Whole Gut Health, we go beyond conventional symptom management and traditional functional medicine protocols. We trust your body's innate ability to heal itself when given the right support.
In Dr. Shustina's many years of practice, she has seen that many digestive diseases have their root cause in emotional traumas and unhealed wounds. When these underlying causes are healed, the body can heal from the inside out in a lasting way.
We focus on the mind-gut connection, incorporating energy healing techniques, personalized nutrition that evolves as you heal, and integrative approaches addressing mind, body, and spirit. If this resonates with you, contact our office to schedule your consultation and take the first step on your healing journey.
Our Crohn’s Disease Treatment Approach
Our Three-Phase Crohn’s Resolution Protocol Includes:
Phase 1 — Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
- Comprehensive evaluation of disease location, severity, and pattern (inflammatory, stricturing, or penetrating)
- Detailed microbiome analysis to identify characteristic dysbiotic patterns
- Dietary triggers and food sensitivities
- Gut microbiome imbalances and pathogenic overgrowth
- Intestinal permeability and barrier function
- Nutritional deficiencies and malabsorption
- Stress and gut-brain axis dysfunction
- Medication effects on gut health
Phase 2 — Targeted Intervention
- Visceral Manipulation: A manual technique used to help optimize motility as well as address the mind body connection.
- Energy Medicine: A powerful technique to address the body’s vibration, the mind-gut connection and to empower the body’s unique ability to heal itself.
- Anti-Inflammatory Protocols: Strategic use of natural anti-inflammatory compounds such as curcumin, customized herbal regimens, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Gut Microbiome Restoration: Evidence-based probiotic strains, prebiotics, and synbiotics targeting species depleted in Crohn’s disease to restore competitive balance
- Dietary Modification: Personalized anti-inflammatory nutrition plans including protocols which address dietary changes needed with improvement and flares
- Intestinal Healing Support: Targeted nutrients and compounds to restore mucosal integrity and reduce intestinal permeability
- Nutritional Repletion: Comprehensive supplementation to address deficiencies and support immune function
Phase 3 — Long-Term Remission and Prevention
- Standard Medical Therapies: Many patients are on medications when joining Whole Gut Health. We use these only when necessary and patients are often able to stop them safely and effectively.
- Sustained Microbiome Balance: Long-term protocols for maintaining healthy gut bacterial populations and preventing dysbiosis recurrence
- Flare Prevention: Identification and avoidance of individual triggers with early intervention protocols
- Nervous System Regulation: Customized sustainable and consistent practices along personalized lifestyle changes
- Immune Modulation: Ongoing support for balanced immune function through nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation
- Monitoring and Surveillance: Regular assessment of disease activity, nutritional status, and complication screening
- Quality of Life Optimization: Comprehensive support addressing fatigue, mental health, and extraintestinal manifestations
- Tapering of medical therapies is often possible in collaboration with patient goals
Expert-Led, Personalized Care
Dr. Alexandra Shustina is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist specializing in complex digestive disorders, gut health, and the gut–brain connection. Drawing from both conventional gastroenterology and integrative medicine, she takes a comprehensive approach to uncovering the underlying factors contributing to illness and guides patients toward lasting wellness.
At Whole Gut Health, every patient receives highly personalized care rooted in a deep understanding of digestive health, nutrition, the gut microbiome, and the interconnected systems that influence overall well-being. By combining evidence-based medicine with a thoughtful, individualized approach, we help patients move beyond symptom management and create a clear path toward long-term healing and vitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions, answered
What is Crohn's disease?
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Crohn's disease is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation throughout the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly affecting the terminal ileum (end of small intestine) and colon. Unlike ulcerative colitis, Crohn's inflammation penetrates through all layers of the bowel wall and can occur in patches with healthy tissue in between (skip lesions). The disease results from complex interactions between genetics, immune dysfunction, environmental triggers, and gut microbiome imbalances.
What are the different types of Crohn's disease?
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Ileocolitis (most common, ~50% of patients)
- Affects terminal ileum and colon
- Symptoms: diarrhea, cramping in middle/lower right abdomen, weight loss
- Highest risk for stricture development
Ileitis (~30% of patients)
- Affects terminal ileum only
- Symptoms: diarrhea, cramping, fistulas/abscesses
- Risk of vitamin B12 deficiency
Crohn's Colitis (~20% of patients)
- Affects colon only
- Symptoms: rectal bleeding, diarrhea, skin lesions, joint pain
- Requires differentiation from ulcerative colitis
Gastroduodenal Crohn's
- Affects stomach and duodenum
- Symptoms: nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Can cause bowel obstruction
Jejunoileitis
- Affects upper small intestine
- Symptoms: abdominal pain after eating, malnutrition
- More common in children
What are the common signs and symptoms of Crohn's disease?
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Gastrointestinal: Chronic diarrhea (sometimes bloody), abdominal pain and cramping, urgency, nausea, reduced appetite, mouth sores
Systemic: Significant weight loss, chronic fatigue, fever during flares, night sweats, delayed growth in children
Complications: Strictures, fistulas, abscesses, perianal disease, nutritional deficiencies
Extraintestinal: Joint pain, skin conditions, eye inflammation, liver complications, kidney stones
How is Crohn's disease diagnosed?
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Comprehensive evaluation includes multiple assessment approaches:
Colonoscopy with Ileoscopy and Biopsy
- Visualizes colon and terminal ileum
- Obtains tissue for definitive diagnosis
Small Bowel Imaging
- MR or CT enterography for disease extent and complications
Applied Kinesiology
- helps delineate root causes and confirms precise customized treatment protocols
Comprehensive Stool Analysis
- Assesses microbiome composition and inflammation markers (calprotectin)
Blood Testing
- Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) and serologic antibodies (ASCA, pANCA)
Nutritional Assessment
- Identifies common deficiencies (B12, iron, vitamin D)
SIBO Breath Testing
- Evaluates concurrent bacterial overgrowth
What does Crohn's disease treatment involve?
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Our comprehensive three-phase Crohn's resolution protocol includes:
Phase 1: Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
- Evaluation of disease location, severity, and pattern
- Microbiome analysis for dysbiotic patterns
- Assessment of dietary triggers, nutritional deficiencies, and contributing factors
Phase 2: Targeted Intervention
- Visceral Manipulation t o help optimize motility as well as address the mind body connection.
- Energy Medicine to address the body’s vibration, the mind-gut connection and to empower the body’s unique ability to heal itself.
- Anti-inflammatory protocols using natural compounds.
- Gut microbiome restoration with targeted probiotics and prebiotics
- Personalized dietary modification
- Intestinal healing support and nutritional repletion
- We use standard medical therapy only when necessary
Phase 3: Long-Term Remission and Prevention
- Sustained microbiome balance protocols
- Flare prevention and early intervention strategies
- Nervous System Regulation through consistent practices and lifestyle changes
- Ongoing immune modulation and monitoring
- Quality of life optimization
- Tapering of medical therapies is often possible in collaboration with patient goals
How does gut microbiome dysfunction contribute to Crohn's disease?
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Research has established that Crohn's patients consistently show characteristic dysbiotic patterns including reduced diversity, decreased beneficial bacteria (especially Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and other butyrate producers), and overgrowth of inflammatory species (particularly Enterobacteriaceae and E. coli). This imbalance reduces short-chain fatty acid production needed for intestinal healing, compromises gut barrier function, and triggers abnormal immune responses perpetuating inflammation.
Can Crohn's disease go into remission?
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Yes, with comprehensive treatment, many patients achieve and maintain remission for extended periods. The goal of modern Crohn's management is not just symptom control but mucosal healing, which significantly reduces complication risk and improves long-term outcomes. Our approach combines conventional therapies when needed with gut microbiome restoration, anti-inflammatory nutrition, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle modification to maximize remission duration and quality of life.
What makes your approach to Crohn's disease treatment different?
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At Whole Gut Health, we take a comprehensive approach to Crohn's disease that addresses underlying factors alongside disease management:
- Focus on true root causes of the disease
- Nervous system regulation as an important part of healing the mind- gut connection
- Gut microbiome restoration as an important therapeutic target
- Integration of conventional gastroenterology with functional medicine approaches
- Personalized dietary protocols based on individual triggers and tolerances
- Comprehensive nutritional assessment and repletion
- Emphasis on sustained remission and quality of life rather than just symptom suppression
Who provides Crohn's disease care at your practice?
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Dr. Alexandra Shustina is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist who serves as NYC's and Miami's premier gut health specialist. She has training in both conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health, with particular expertise in inflammatory bowel diseases and comprehensive gut microbiome restoration protocols.
How do I get started with Crohn's disease evaluation and treatment?
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The first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation where we'll:
- Review your symptoms, disease history, and current management in detail
- Assess true root causes and contributing factors
- Determine the most appropriate testing and treatment strategy
- Develop a personalized Crohn's management plan addressing root causes alongside disease control
Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey toward sustained remission and optimal gut health.
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Dr. Shustina is a great doctor and healer! She is an expert and has great results. She has helped me and my family and I highly recommend her.
I know doctor Alexandra Shustina very well. She is a great physician. High integrity and good a good diagnostic.
Dr. Shustina is an incredible professional. She goes to the root level of the issue, not only superficial, so in reality there’s healing. And she is holistic meaning that her approach is from a whole, complete point of view and she provides it through her education, knowledge, wisdom and experience. Dr. Shustina was so patient with me, asking me question and guiding me how I could take charge of my health. Thank you Dr. Shustina
Dr. Shustina is truly exceptional! I met her at a health and wellness event and I was so blown away by her perspective on health. Dr. Shustina combines expertise in gastrointestinal health with a holistic approach, considering not just the physical symptoms but the whole person. Since meeting her I have invited her to talk at an event that I put together and I have also had my daughter be seen by her. She is now my go to person for everything Holistic and Gut related. Thank you Dr Shustina for everything!
Dr. Shustina is an incredibly knowledgeable doctor who truly takes the time to find the root cause of every patient’s illness. I am constantly awed by her excellent diagnostic ability and her efforts on behalf of her patients. She really goes above and beyond to treat and cure.
Dr Shustina is an outstanding and brilliant holistic physician with a wonderful understanding of the whole body. I highly recommend her!!
Dr. Shustina has helped me and my family improve our health. She is very knowledgeable in medical and in holistic and natural treatments and was able to find the source of the problem whc=ic created lasting results
Dr shustina is a wise and helpful doctor. She talks to you and consults with you about everything and spends a generous amount time asking questions about your health, grasping a full understanding of how your symptoms are making you feel, and what lifestyle you have. Our first appointment we spoke for a complete hour. I had struggled on and off with sibo for about 3 years before seeing her. I was extremely tired and had lots of symptoms of digestive issues. I saw 2 gastroenterologist before me they didn’t help much and they definitely did not consult with me for as thoroughly as she did. But upon seeing dr Shustina she was able to diagnosis me immediately and start a treatment plan that helped and got to the root cause of the issue. She has given me health and my life back and I can’t be grateful enough. Dr Shustina is the last gastroenterologist I need to see because I’m healthy and if problems happen in the future I trust her.
Dr. Shustina is the best doctor I have ever been to. She really takes the time and makes the effort to assess the root of the problem. She went above and beyond to help me a number of times with a variety of tools. She has the medical training and specialty along with a broad range of tools and experience to help patients in a natural and holistic way.
Dr. Shustina is very kind and very patient and has helped me change my lifestyle in a way that I thought I could not. By changing some things, she was able to help me heal my gut which was an area that I thought could not be healed. I highly recommend her!!
Doctor Shustina is the absolute best! It is hard to put into words how significant of an impact she has had on my well-being. She has helped me resolve numerous issues - from physical to mental- that other doctors dismissed, and she has spent countless hours answering my questions and teaching me lifestyle changes that have enabled me to thrive. She takes a whole person approach, focusing on root causes and not simply symptoms. She is not only a doctor but a friend, and she cares deeply about her patients. It gives me a lot of comfort knowing that whatever the issue is, I can come to Doctor Shustina for guidance and support. I could not recommend her enough! Thank you Dr. Shustina!
I recently had the privilege of consulting with Dr. Shustina. She is an outstanding doctor who truly understands the body's ability to heal itself and focuses on holistic remedies. I highly recommend Dr. Shustina for anyone seeking natural solutions and long-lasting relief. She patiently listened to me and answered all my questions. She provided me with holistic supplements and remedies that not only improved my symptoms but also enhanced my overall well-being. If you're looking for a knowledgeable and caring gastroenterologist who prioritizes natural remedies, Dr. Shustina is undoubtedly the ideal choice.
I have been under Dr. Shustina's care for the past 5 months which have been excellent. In these months, my digestive system has improved considerably. In my experience she is the first doctor which listens to her patients and works in treating the conditions and not only the symptoms. She is willing to explore alternative ways to achieve a better health. I highly enjoy the doctor-patient relation. I do highly recommend her.
Dr. Shustina is a fantastic doctor who truly cares for the patient. Her holistic approach attacks the root cause, leading to healing that lasts. Her expertise in gut health is evident, and the results reflect her vast knowledge and dedication towards each patient.
“I found Dr. Shustina after many months of searching for a board certified doctor who was able to incorporate holistic healing and nutrition into a treatment plan rather than simply diagnosing my symptoms and prescribing medication. Dr. Shustina has a wealth of knowledge and is helping me a heal years of gastrointestinal issues. p.s Her podcast, available on her site, is a GOLD MINE.”
Reviews
The body remembers when it's finally heard
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Dr. Shustina goes to the root level of the issue, not only superficial, so there's healing.
LG
Leah Glickman
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She has significantly improved my health. I was suffering from Ulcerative Colitis and now live normally.
ML
Monica LaBadia
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Dr. Shustina has helped me change my lifestyle and heal my gut in a way I thought impossible.
DL
Dalit Lonstein
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She listens to patients and treats conditions, not symptoms.
GS
Gabriela Salazar
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Dr. Shustina is the best doctor I have ever been to. She assesses the root of the problem.
MS
M. S.
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She is an outstanding doctor who understands the body's ability to heal itself and holistic remedies.
SS
Sibel Sebi Sharabi
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Dr. Shustina has a wealth of knowledge and is helping me heal years of gastrointestinal issues.
DC
Daniela Chaparro
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Dr. Shustina is an amazing doctor. She diagnosed my cancer early and saved my life.
MW
Mordechai Weinstein
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After one session with Dr. Shustina, my digestive pain went away.
TP
Taryn Parascand
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Doctor Shustina is the absolute best. She has helped me resolve numerous issues other doctors dismissed.
RS
Rachel S.
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Dr. Shustina is a fantastic doctor who truly cares. Her holistic approach attacks the root cause.
CS
Clay Simonsen
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