Did you know that your health begins in your gut? If your gut isn’t healthy you are not healthy. Poor gut health can cause so many health issues. Numerous studies in the past few decades have shown that there is a link between gut health and the immune system, mood, mental health, autoimmune diseases, endocrine disorders, skin conditions, and cancer.
We have good bacteria in our gut, what exactly are gut bacteria and what do they do? Gut bacteria are types of microorganisms that live within the human digestive system alongside other tiny organisms like fungi and viruses. Together, they form the "microbiome".
The term “gut microbiome” refers specifically to the microorganisms living in your intestines. A person has about 300 to 500 different species of bacteria in their digestive tract. While some microorganisms are harmful to our health, many are incredibly beneficial and even necessary to a healthy body. ( source)
When we eat the wrong foods and take certain medications, such as antibiotics, the good bacteria is destroyed.
What are the signs of an unhealthy gut?
- Upset stomach, gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and heartburn are all signs of an unhealthy gut.
- High sugar diet, a diet high in sugar can decrease the good bacteria in your gut.
- Unintentional weight changes, an unhealthy gut can impair your body’s ability to absorb nutrients, regulate blood sugar, and store fat.
- Sleep disturbances or chronic fatigue, the majority of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gut. Serotonin is a hormone that effects sleep and mood.
- Skin irritation, Inflammation in the gut caused by a poor diet may cause increased leaking of certain proteins out into the body, which can irritate the skin and cause skin conditions.
- Autoimmune diseases, the gut impacts the immune system and an unhealthy gut may increase inflammation and alter the proper function of the immune system. Which in turn can lead to autoimmune diseases.
- Food intolerances, these are a result of the body having a difficult time digesting certain foods. It is thought that food intolerances may be caused by poor quality of bacteria in the gut.
What are some ways you can improve gut health?
- Change your diet. Reduce the amount of processed, high sugar foods. Eat plenty of plant based foods and good quality protein. Also increase the fiber in your diet. Here is a list of foods high in fiber.
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water. Water has bee shown to have a beneficial effect on the lining of the intestines.
- Check for food intolerances. The best way to do this is to keep a food diary to see which foods are upsetting your stomach. You can try eliminating these foods to see if it makes a difference in how you feel. By eliminating these foods you may see a positive change in your gut health.
- Lower your stress level. Chronic stress is extremely hard on your body. Find ways to decrease or manage your stress.
- Eat slowly. Chew your food thoroughly to promote full digestion.
- Take a prebiotic and probiotic plus digestive enzymes. This is a great way to restore your gut microbiome. Enzymes are also important as they are what helps your body break down your food in your digestive tract.
- Get enough sleep. Not getting enough sleep can impact your gut health. There are many ways to help you get good quality sleep. Here are some helpful tips to help you get better sleep.
If you would like more info on the probiotics and enzymes that we have chosen you can go here.
For info on why I have chosen the supplements that I have for our family check out my blog post.
Blessing,
Anna
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