Gut Health
The term gut microbiome refers to the microorganisms living in your intestines, and your gut microbiome is the foundation of your health. A high percentage of your immune system is in your gut, therefore, your hormone levels and immune system can also be affected if your gut isn’t healthy.
Why does gut health matter?
Your gut is the foundation of good overall wellbeing; it digests and absorbs nutrients to fuel and maintain your body. It also rids metabolic waste and toxins, but it will only be able to do this if your gut is healthy. Unfortunately, this could lead to other health conditions, such as chronic fatigue, chronic illnesses and inflammation throughout the body. This is why some people struggle with symptoms such as brain fog, constipation, gas and joint pain.
What can cause an unhealthy gut?
Poor nutrition: Eating too much processed foods and sugar can harm the beneficial bacteria in your gut and contribute to or cause inflammation throughout the body as it decreases the number of good bacteria and diversity in your gut.
Stress: Heightened stress levels can be hard on your body, including your gut and an imbalance of more bad than good bacteria in the gut.
Lack of sleep: Not getting enough or sufficient quality of sleep can seriously impact your gut health, which can contribute to more sleep issues.
Long-term use of antibiotics: They can decrease B12 levels within the gut, which is essential in cell production, brain function and energy. They also kill the good bacteria that live in your gut. However, it’s important to note that there is a time for these medications; only use them when advised by a doctor.
Symptoms of an unhealthy gut: It can present itself in many different ways. Here are some signs and indicators of a poor microbiome of an unhealthy gut
- Brain fog
- Headaches
- Poor concentration and loss of memory
- Fatigue
- Chronic pain
- Insomnia
- Gas
- Bloating
- Constipation
Some people may also suffer from conditions that attack the immune system, which could also affect an unhealthy gut.
Ways to restore your gut health
A good idea to help with gut issues is to check your intolerances. If you can identify and eliminate certain foods that have a bad impact on your digestive system, you may see an overall positive change.
You may also benefit from changing your diet, for example, eating high-fibre foods contributes to a healthy gut microbiome.
It is also essential to stay hydrated. This is a simple way to promote a healthy digestive system that has many benefits to your overall health and wellbeing. It can also help with symptoms such as constipation.
Many people can manage and heal their gut by finding ways to relieve stress and getting a good 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Gut health will not just change overnight. However, dedication and consistency will go a long way to help the recovery of your gut health.
