All disease begins in the gut. Hence, be good to your gut. Studies have demonstrated links between gut health and the immune system, mental health, mood, autoimmune disease, skin condition and cancer. It is hardly news that gut plays an important role to human health. From transportation of food to our stomach and converting it into absorbable nutrients and stored energy. Looking after the health of our gut and properly maintaining the balance of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract, is very vital for our physical and mental health as well as our overall immunity.
There are several ways, which are scientifically supported to improve and enhance our gut health. Probiotics or good bacteria in the gut can be boosted by taking probiotic or prebiotic supplements which can help prevent gut inflammation and other intestinal problems. Adding a prebiotic to your diet means providing “food” which helps promote growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, while probiotics are live good bacteria.
The food we eat obviously plays a big role in the bacterial makeup found in our gut. Go for high-fiber foods and cut down on sugars. As diet and gut health are very closely linked, it is suggested to incorporate high-fiber foods into our diet, like leeks, beans, legumes, banana, oats, berries and asparagus. They are known to give a positive impact on our gut health. Staying away from processed foods, high in refined sugars and high-fat is greatly encouraged and extremely important to maintain a healthy microbiome – microorganisms living in our intestines.
Along with being cautious with our food choices, eating slowly by chewing your food thoroughly will help promote full digestion and will allow better absorption of nutrients to our body. A simple way to promote gut health is by staying hydrated. Having enough water will give benefits to the mucosal lining of our intestines. Hydration keeps the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
Managing stress. A variety of stressors can greatly affect our gut health negatively. These psychological stressors can disrupt the microorganisms in our intestines causing our gut health to weaken and will open the chances to intestinal problems and other diseases. A healthful diet, regular exercise, meditation and any form of relaxation are just some of the many techniques to manage stress. Getting enough and good quality sleep can also help improve gut health and one’s mood.
When we keep our gut health at a top priority and make ways to maintain its tip-top condition, it is greatly contributing to our overall immune health and function. Simple lifestyle changes, shifting to a healthier food options, staying active and getting enough sleep are just some of the positive modifications we can do to better our gut health and soon our overall health. Remember, a healthy gut means a healthy YOU.
