Did you know that by caring for your gut, you can positively impact many aspects of your life?
WHOLE BODY-AND-MIND BENEFITS OF A HEALTHY GUT:
😌 Brain and Mood
When your gut is well, it can help keep your brain happy and nourished. Your gut is constantly talking with your brain via hormones and other chemicals. These gut-brain conversations can affect your mood, appetite, thinking ability, emotions, and even sleep! Research has shown that the gut microbiome can affect mental health. Current thinking suggests that your gut may actually be your first brain, not the 2nd.
⚖ Weight
Keeping your gut healthy can help keep your weight healthy. Researchers have linked gut bacteria imbalances to weight gain and obesity. Off-balance gut bacteria can also affect the production of hormones that regulate our appetite and cravings.
🛡 Immune System
Would you believe that 70-80% of your immune system cells live in the gut? The Immune cells in your gut work with the rest of your immune system to protect your body and eliminate any pathogens (aka bad guys) you might encounter.
🌿 Skin Health
You need a healthy GI system to properly absorb all those wonderful skin-supporting nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, K2, healthy fats, and zinc. Research points to a connection between gut problems and skin disorders.
💪 Overall Wellbeing
Your digestive system makes sure the life-giving, mood-supporting, muscle-building nutrients you consume are broken down and available for your cells. In this way, your gut health affects every part of your body.
TIPS FOR A HEALTHY GUT 🙌
Nourish well: A balanced, fiber-rich diet can do wonders for your gut! Get plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and legumes into your meals. Load up on lean proteins and healthy fats while limiting sugar and highly processed foods.
Include probiotics and prebiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria for your gut and prebiotics act as food to keep the probiotics flourishing. For prebiotics, enjoy fiber-rich foods like legumes, whole grains, fruits, and veggies. You can take probiotic supplements and get them by adding naturally fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or kimchi to your diet. 🌱
Manage stress: Did you know stress alone can take a toll on your gut health?! Give your gut the calm environment it deserves by lowering your stress levels with things like relaxation practices, yoga, hobbies, and reaching out to loved ones.
Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. For optimal gut health, aim for at least eight glasses per day. 💦➡ Did any of this surprise you? Are you feeling inspired to help keep your gut happier? I know I am!
