Gut Health: What Is It and Why It Matters?

Gut Health: What Is It and Why It Matters? – Aromance Life Institute

You might have heard about this saying: “You are what you eat.” It’s quite true because your gut health doesn’t just affect your stomach; it also plays a big part in your overall physical health.

Like your nervous system, immunity, chances of getting long-term health issues, mental health, or how well you digest food — a healthy gut is always important in helping you feel your best.

So, what exactly is gut health? How does it affect the rest of your body? And if it’s not in sync, what steps can you take to bring it back into balance?

Let’s talk all about it.

What Is Gut Health?

The Gut Microbiome – Your Inner Ecosystem

Your gastrointestinal (GI) system includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine – its job is to process food, extract nutrients, and eliminate waste.

These nutrients are essential for your body’s functions and processes. Inside your small and large intestines, microorganisms (or microbes) use these nutrients.

So, when we talk about gut health, we’re referring to the well-being of your entire digestive system and the microorganisms living inside it.

In your large intestine, there are about 200 different species of microorganisms — like bacteria, viruses, and fungi living together.

These microorganisms form your gut microbiome (gut flora).

Some bacteria in your gut can be harmful and linked with certain diseases but many are also beneficial and necessary for a healthy body.

Good bacteria thrive on fiber; found in foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Bad bacteria thrive on sugars and processed foods.

However, a diverse range of bacteria in your gut is a good sign of a healthy microbiome.

Research shows that having many different types of bacteria in your gut might lower your chances of developing conditions such as diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriatic arthritis.

What you eat has a huge impact on the types of bacteria in your digestive system.

So, your diet can affect both the short-term and long-term well-being of your gut microbiome, which in turn can influence your physical and mental health.

The Link Between Gut Health and Your Overall Health

The National Institutes of Health report that digestive problems impact 60 to 70 million Americans.

These issues range from things like gallstones and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) to more serious conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Importantly, gut-related problems can affect more than just your digestive system.

Studies conducted over the past few decades have discovered connections between gut health and:

• Immune system function.
• Mental health.
• Autoimmune conditions.
• Hormonal imbalances.
• Digestive issues.
• Heart health.
• cancer

Why Is It Important To Have a Healthy Gut?

A healthy and balanced gut strongly influences brain health.

Over 90% of the serotonin is made in the gut and cravings often stem from this link.

Stress can harm gut health and lead to inflammation and emotional eating.

The microbes in your gut, including bacteria, help in the digestion of food and contribute to immune, heart, and brain health, among other positive effects.

Due to the gut’s important role in your overall health, taking care of it is essential.

What Are the Signs of an Unhealthy Gut?

The signs of poor and unhealthy gut health show up as:

• Gas and bloating.
• Upset stomach.
• Food intolerances.
• Unintentional weight changes.
• Constant fatigue
• Sleep disturbances or insomnia.
• Autoimmune conditions.
• Inflammation
• Sugar cravings.
• Skin irritation.
• Constant fatigue.
• Moodiness
• Mental health issues.

How To Improve Your Gut Health

1. Start With A Healthy Diet

A gut-friendly diet involves a wide range range of foods and adding them to your diet can help you heal your gut.

1.High Fiber Foods

Incorporate foods high in fiber. Research has shown that foods rich in fiber promote good gut health. These foods include:

1. Legumes such as black beans and chickpeas.
2. Whole grains like oats and quinoa.
3. Vegetables like broccoli and asparagus.
4. Nuts like almonds and pistachios.
5. Fruits like apples and peaches.

2.Fermented Foods

Research suggests that probiotics are very helpful for your overall health due to their impact on the gut’s microbiome.

There are fermented foods that make them good dietary sources of probiotics for gut health. They include:

• There are fermented foods that make them good dietary sources of probiotics for gut health. They include:
  ● Kimchi.
  ● Sauerkraut.
  ● Yogurt.
  ● Labneh.
  ● Cultured cottage cheese.
  ● Yefir.
  ● Natto.
  ● Kombucha.
  ● Kvass.
  ● Gochujang.
  ● Miso.
  ● Fermented olives.
  ● Pickles.
  Including these foods in your diet can improve the gut microbiome.

3.Prebiotic Foods

Prebiotics are a special kind of fiber that helps good bacteria grow.
You can find prebiotics in foods like artichokes, bananas, asparagus, oats, and apples.
In a study, ITF prebiotics were found to shift the gut microbiota in obese women, resulting in slight changes in metabolism.
4. Collagen-Boosting Foods
Eating foods high in collagen can be good for your health and your gut.
To naturally boost your body’s collagen production, include these foods in your diet:
● Citrus fruits.
● Broccoli.
● Eggs.
● Nuts.
5. Cut Down on Artificial Sweeteners:

Some studies suggest that sweeteners like aspartame can raise blood sugar levels by facilitating the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut.

2. Take Probiotic Supplements

Add probiotic supplements to your routine – they are considered digestion supplements.

They provide a direct boost to your gut microbiome, help in digestion, and keep a healthy balance of bacteria.

If you have a serious illness or a weakened immune system, then avoid probiotics.

When considering a probiotic or prebiotic supplement for better health, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional first.

3. Try Other Gut Health Supplements

In addition to probiotics, there are certain other supplements to improve gut health.
Look for options that contain ingredients like:
● Fiber.
● Digestive enzymes.
● Collagen powder.
● L-glutamine.
● Curcumin.
● Vitamin C.
These can help restore gut health and relieve digestive discomfort.

4. Keep Yourself Hydrated

Drinking enough water can lead to a wider variety of gut bacteria.

However, where you get your water from is important. A study from 2022 showed that those who drank more water had fewer bacteria that can cause stomach issues.

Keeping hydrated is good for your overall health and can prevent constipation.

It’s also an easy way to support a healthy gut.

5. Get Proper Sleep

Getting enough sleep is beneficial for your gut health too.

Proper sleep patterns can positively influence the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome.

6. Exercise

Research shows that light exercise can increase beneficial bacteria and enhance overall gut bacteria diversity.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to recognize that restoring your gut health is a gradual process that requires commitment and regular effort.

Maintaining a healthy microbiome requires eating a nutritious diet rich in fiber and fermented foods, as well as making some important lifestyle adjustments.

Aromance Life Institute focuses on a variety of health issues such as weight management, sleep, nutrition, stress management, mental health, and more.

Changing your lifestyle might be daunting, but we’re here to help you with the information and resources you need to overcome any obstacles.