Member Spotlight - Dr. Rebecca Sand

What inspired you to become a Naturopathic Physician and why/how do you focus on Gastro?

After years in the research world in both genetic and traditional world medicines, I wanted to have more of an impact on the health of real people. I loved that naturopathic medicine gave me the tools from both natural and conventional medical practices to individualize care. I specialize in gastroenterology because I love geeking out on the microbiome and have learned its implications for health and disease throughout the body. 

Describe your practice? (what GI diseases do you focus on and what modalities do you use)

I support all GI conditions in my practice! Some of my favorites to work with are UC, Crohn’s, SIBO, IBS, SIFO, GERD, chronic constipation, bloating, diarrhea, and liver, gallbladder and pancreatic diseases. I especially love the crossover between the microbiome and hormone systems and related conditions, including PCOS, endometriosis, and symptomatic menopause. In addition to practicing naturopathic medicine, I regularly utilize several hands-on modalities to my in-person visits: acupuncture, Maya Abdominal Therapy, visceral manipulation, and craniosacral therapy. 

How has GastroANP impacted your practice?

GastroANP is my inspiration and major resource hub! Also, fellow GastroANP-ers are my favorite people to talk with (don’t tell my family). I learn so much from my GastroANP colleagues on how to enhance the care I bring to my patients. I also love staying up to date on how naturopathic gastroenterology is advancing and what we as a profession bring to our patients. 

How can students or other doctors connect with you? 

Feel free to reach out via my website - www.drrebeccasand.com and be sure to tune into my podcast, The Turd Nerds with Drs. Ilana Gurevich and Ami Kapadia. I also take preceptors at my Kwan Yin Healing Arts practice. 

Where did you go to ND school?

Bastyr University in Washington

What do you like to do outside of work?

Travel, garden, attempt crosswords, hang with my amazing friends and family, and, of course, read dorky articles on the microbiome.