You Need to Check Your Gut
In the past 20 years, there has been a lot of studies connecting gut health to physical, emotional and mental wellbeing. Many non-digestive symptoms can be linked to an imbalance gut. Before I started learning about this connection, I was confused about why I was always tired, getting bloated after eating “healthy” food, and couldn’t figure out why I was so irritable all the time.
After learning a little bit more about the signs of an imbalance gut and how lifestyle choices could have an effect on the balance of my gut, I made a few lifestyle changes to improve my overall wellbeing.
Before I tell you more about my journey, you’re probably wondering how you can tell if your gut is balanced or unbalanced. Here are a few signs you might need to check your gut:
Upset stomach
Fatigue
Unintentional weight changes
Interrupted sleep
Brain fog
Bloating or intestinal issues
Skin irritation
These are just a few signs that you might need to work on your gut balance. Chances are you’ve experienced one or two of the above symptoms. You might be wondering how your gut could be connected to some of these symptoms. Here are just a few facts about your gut.
Our gut flora plays a huge part in this. The gut flora controls about 80% of our immune system, promotes healthy gastrointestinal function, and regulates metabolism, to name a few. An imbalance in the gut flora can have an affect on our gut barrier. Our gut barrier basically makes sure we absorb the nutrients we need, keeps out the bad stuff that we don’t need. When our gut flora is out of whack, our gut barrier can’t do its job and that is how we end up with some of the symptoms above.
So what can you do to improve the balance of your gut?
Choose a nutrient rich diet consisting of whole foods, mostly plant based
Minimize stress
Consume fermented foods like kombucha, kimchi, or yogurt
Identify your sensitive food groups
Find a good probiotic. Here’s what I use.
Choose dietary fibers. Here’s my daily fiber supplement.
I am so grateful that I’ve simplified my health and wellness routine. Since learning the importance of gut health, I am able to be more mindful of how my body responds to what I am eating, even if it is considered healthy. I go through my days with more energy than ever because I have learned to use food as fuel. I love sharing this simple approach with people and empowering them to care for themselves and use food as fuel. If you want some help getting your gut in check, shoot me a message.