Starting with the basics, let’s define what the gut is in the human body. The gut is the segment of the gastrointestinal tract extending from the pyloric sphincter of the stomach to the anus and, as in other mammals, consists of two segments, the small intestine and the large intestine. Your gut plays a huge role in your overall well being. It can play a factor in your mood, weight, and immune and inflammation function. Not only can the gut affect these, but 90% of your serotonin (The happy, “feel good” hormone) is produced in the gut.
There are ways to maintain your health, as well as ways to see signs that a problem may be arising in your gut.
TO IMPROVE YOUR GUT:
- Get enough sleep! This one is easy, all you have to do is get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Not enough sleep can contribute to large gut health problems.
- Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water can have a large effect on the mucosal lining of the intestines, as well as on the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
- Take a pre or probiotic. Prebiotics help with the promotion of beneficial bacteria in your gut. Probiotics help with the live good bacteria in your body, that your gut needs.
If you’re looking for a great pro/prebiotic company Douglas Labs and Jarrow Formulas have great options. Douglas Labs creates great pro/prebiotics as well as hyperbiotics for all different ages. Our friends at Hill Functional Wellness carry Douglas Lab product Dophilus for $12.98 which is much cheaper than most online stores and pharmacies. Hyperbiotics sell for between $20-$30 depending on the product. You can also head to the website if you’re looking to find peace of mind with your health and get the answers you’ve been looking for.
- Lower your stress levels. Take a second to relax, go for a walk, grab some essential oils, take a yoga class. Anything that allows you to just take a second and breathe. Being in a chronically stressed state can cause a lack of blood flow and oxygen to the stomach causing inflammation and an imbalance of gut bacteria.
INDICATIONS OF A BAD GUT:
–Sleep-deprived and constant fatigue. If you aren’t getting enough sleep at least 7-8 hours that can play a huge role in your gut health.
– Unintentional weight changes. Gaining or losing weight without making any changes to your diet. If you have an issue with your gut it can cause your body to have an imbalance in the nutrients and create a problem with absorption.
-Skin irritation. Inflammation in the gut can be caused by diet issues or food allergies. If you are having issues with random breakouts or eczema that could be an issue with your gut.
– Poor nutrition. A diet of high sugars and processed foods can lead to a large issue in your gut. These added sugars can cause a decrease in good bacteria in your gut.
