Happy Gut, Things That Feed Your Inner Smile

From skin health, to autoimmune conditions and even our mental health, the gut is a key player in a variety of biological processes

The incredible organ that is our gut has become an area of increasing popularity. More and more research has come to light on how our digestive system plays a pivotal role in our overall wellbeing. From skin health, to autoimmune conditions and even our mental health, the gut is a key player in a variety of biological processes that can have widespread outcomes towards our overall wellbeing.

Once thought of as a straightforward system of the body, the digestive system was considered as simply one long tube for our food to pass through, absorb our nutrients and pass out the other end. Yet the gut offers a plethora of health benefits to us, and we can credit much of these to the community of microorganisms living within us, called the microbiota.

Although a balance diet is rooted in simplicity, finding gut friendly food is an art to master and a science to perfect.

Fulfilling nutritional requirements

Good nutrition includes a balance of proteins, carbs, and healthy fats as well as the right amount of vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like legumes (beans, peas, and lentils) aids in the excretion of undesired food remains. Because of their high vitamin content, nuts and seeds give the body the nutrition it needs. It’s not only what you eat, but also how and when you eat your food that counts as a major factor in maintaining healthy bodily functions. Nutritional requirements for an individual may vary in accordance to their BMI and other diseases he/she might have, so that needs to be kept in mind at all times.

A Balanced Lifestyle

One of the most crucial things you can do for your health is to exercise regularly. Physical activity can strengthen your bones and muscles, help you with weight management, increase your ability to carry out daily tasks, and improve your cognitive health. Getting enough sleep, sunbathing and staying hydrated are equally crucial. Adults who spend less time sitting and engage in any level of moderate-to-vigorous exercise reap some health benefits, including faster and better digestion. An active lifestyle has health advantages for everyone; age, ability, ethnicity, form, or size are irrelevant.

Well-informed Healthcare

Adding a prebiotic or probiotic supplement to your diet may help you have better gut health. While probiotics are living beneficial bacteria, prebiotics are ‘food’ meant to encourage the growth of those bacteria in the gut. Probiotics shouldn't be taken by those who are critically ill or have compromised immune systems. Not all probiotic supplements are of great quality or advantageous to your health, either. When deciding on a probiotic or prebiotic supplement to assist you enhance your health, it is best to see a professional healthcare provider. They might also suggest dietary supplements if need be. Stress, poor diet, and long-term pharmaceutical use- all have ill effects on your gut health. The microbial flora of the gut is altered by antibiotics and antacids. Consulting a professional practitioner in the field helps you make better informed choices and understand what your body needs.

With a rise in chronic diseases such as IBS, psoriasis, anxiety and depression, it’s never been more important to ‘go with your gut’ and give it some TLC.