Maintaining Gut Health Tips

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Author Name: Mia Barnes
Date: Friday January 5, 2024

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Many lifestyle factors contribute to your gut health, affecting your overall health. Studies link gut health to your immune system, mental health and numerous diseases and disorders. The gut microbiome can affect your overall health. Explore these gut health tips to ensure you are taking care of your overall health and well-being.  

1. Change Your Diet

What you put into your body affects your overall health. You can maintain proper gut health by limiting your intake of processed foods and foods high in sugar and fat. Foods that are high in fiber are excellent for your gut microbiome. 

High-fiber foods that positively impact gut health are vegetables like asparagus and broccoli and variations of nuts, fruits and whole grains. Collagen-boosting foods and fermented foods like eggs and sauerkraut are said to improve gut health. Garlic may also be beneficial to gut health. 

2. Exercise Regularly

Frequent exercise has myriad benefits, but did you know that it can improve your gut health? Cardio can support a healthy gut microbiome, so going for a light job can increase your gut health. Microorganisms inside your gut can promote better moods and help protect against diseases if you keep them healthy. 

Physical activity can keep your digestive system on track and reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A regular exercise routine can help regulate your digestion and redistribute your blood flow by allowing more oxygen to your brain and bloodstream. 

3. Stay Hydrated

Keeping your body hydrated has many health benefits, from the skin to gut health. The amount of water you drink can help with digestion and gut support. When you stay hydrated, you are supporting the lining of your intestines and aiding your gut to absorb nutrients that you need, like vitamins and electrolytes. 

Proper hydration can help regulate bowel movements and prevent other stomach disturbances. Not getting the adequate amount of water your body needs can result in stomach ulcers or acid reflux issues. Carrying a reusable water bottle can help encourage you to drink more water throughout the day. If you aren’t a water fan, try decaffeinated teas or flavored water to increase your water intake. Try matcha teas that are also high in fiber and support your gut health

Signs of an Unhealthy Gut

Taking antibiotics, high-stress levels and not getting enough sleep are lifestyle factors that can contribute to your gut health. An upset stomach is a common sign of an unhealthy gut–diarrhea, gas, bloating, constipation and heartburn are all symptoms. 

Weight changes that are unintentional can be a sign of an unhealthy gut since when your gut is imbalanced it can affect your body‘s ability to absorb nutrients, store fat and regulate your blood sugar. Chronic fatigue can also imply that there is an issue with your gut health. 

Some things you can do to improve your gut health in addition to the tips above are lowering your stress levels, eating slower and taking smaller bites and trying a prebiotic or probiotic to promote beneficial bacteria growth. 

Maintaining Gut Health

The gut microbiome seems to affect your overall health in your body. Dietary changes and lifestyle factors can improve your gut health and support your gut’s function. Utilize these tips to maintain proper gut health. 

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