Gut Health is a term we are hearing more and seeing all over health magazines and social media, but why is that? And why are we being told that gut health is super important?
The gut breaks down our food and delivers it as nutrients, which support our bodies functions, including hormone balance, skin health and your overall immune system. Your gut is also where your body gets rid of metabolic waste and toxins. If your gut is not healthy, it will have a hard time supporting your body and it can result in chronic inflammation and illness.
And in case you need another reason to be more conscious about your gut health, research tells us that a majority of serotonin is produced in your gut. Serotonin is one of the neurotransmitters responsible for keeping you happy and energized. Without a healthy gut,
If you struggle with symptoms of an unhealthy gut, you are not alone, 70 million people in the U.S. struggle with digestive diseases. So what can you do to make sure you are keeping your gut happy?
- Limit refined sugars and processed foods. Processed foods should be avoided, as your gut can mistake the artificial ingredients for an ‘attacker’ setting off an inflammatory response.
- Make sure you stay within the recommended amount of fiber per day, this varies depending on your age and gender!
- Make sure your body is getting healthy doses of prebiotics and probiotics. Prebiotics are dietary fibers that feed the good bacteria in your gut. Probiotics, such as sauerkraut, miso and tempeh, have live cultures that help your gut break down foods and improve your immune system!
- Slow down when you are eating. Taking time to chew your food kick starts the digestive process, as that food is broken down, it sends a signal to the rest of your body that it is time for your digestive system to get to work.
- Limit the amount of red meat! A 2019 study suggested that red meat raised the levels of TMAO, a byproduct of gut bacteria. Researchers have linked high TMAO levels to a higher risk of heart attack.
