The Rising Tide of Digestive Disorders: A Functional Perspective on Modern Root Causes Digestive disorders have become increasingly prevalent over the past decade, with rising rates of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colorectal cancer in younger adults, and functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). While genetics play a role, the sharp increase in prevalence over a short period suggests significant environmental and lifestyle shifts as key drivers. From depleted soil nutrients to modern dietary patterns, chronic stress, trauma, and toxic exposures, a functional medicine lens helps us connect these dots in understanding why our collective gut health is under strain. 1. Decreased Mineral Density in Soil The modern industrialized food system emphasizes yield and efficiency, often at the expense of soil quality. Over time, the mineral content of soil has declined, reducing the nutritional value of produce. Hooda et al. (2004) highlight ho...