E A T I N G F O R H E A LT H
Gut Health Basics
There’s more to gut health than kombucha. The hype around probiotics can be confusing! What really makes a healthy gut? When it comes to gut health, master these basics before popping supplements. Spoiler: “basics” doesn’t mean easy!
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| july/august 2021
Nutrition
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Is it true that “you are what you eat?” Well, you aren’t Oysters Rockefeller, but the food you eat comprises your gut bacteria! Support gut health by including diverse foods in your diet. Nutrient diversity provides your body with antioxidants and micronutrients to bolster immunity. Rather than repeating similar meals, incorporate colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and heart-healthy fats. Adequate caloric intake for your energy needs and hydration matter, too. While fad diets or cleanses promise weight loss, they can be detrimental to overall gut health. Those with plentiful bacteria strains in their gut are more likely to maintain and lose weight!
Sleep Sleep is interconnected with gut health. Inconsistent sleep contributes to stress in the body via increased cortisol, a
stress hormone. This can change your gut microbiome’s composition as well as increase symptoms of bloating or intestinal discomfort. How well-rested you feel may impact your nutrition. It’s normal to crave simple carbohydrates and caffeine when low on sleep; long-term, this can negatively impact your gut health.
Stress If you’ve ever noticed intestinal issues like bloating, cramping, heartburn, or loose stools crop up when you’re stressed, you’ve experienced the gut-brain connection! The opposite is also true: the composition of your microbiome can influence symptoms of anxiety and depression. Take inventory of your stress management skills. Stress is a part of all our lives. In some cases – like exercise – it’s actually good for us. When stress feels hard to manage, don’t hesitate to seek help from trusted loved ones or health professionals. Your gut will thank you!
