Initially thought of as only a simple system in the body where merely food passes through a long tube aka the digestive tract, the gut is vastly more complex in its workings. From connections to the immune system, cancer, mood and mental health, the gut plays a major role in the body’s overall health. Poor diet, stress and sleep deprivation can contribute to the gut not being able to function at its peak level. Here are a few pointers that can help you take better care of your gut and in turn, taking better care of your body overall.
Change Your Diet-Although this may seem like an obvious tactic to improve gut health, it may be confusing as to how to successfully implement a change to bring these results from a mere desire to reality. Reducing the amount of processed foods (i.e-foods high in sugar and saturated fats) in your diet is a good place to start.* In addition, increasing the amount of fiber and plant based foods like beans and oats will also be beneficial to increasing your gut health.
Get More Sleep-Not getting enough sleep can contribute to more issues with your gut health, which can have a cyclical effect and cause you to not be able to sleep as much.* Trying to sleep for at least 7-8 hours per night uninterrupted could help with achieving better gut health.
Stay Hydrated- Drinking plenty of water has been shown to have a beneficial effect on the mucosal lining of the intestines, as well as on the balance of good bacteria in the gut.*
Eating high fiber plant based foods, getting more sleep and staying hydrated can all benefit you in several ways however increasing the health of your gut is one of the greatest aspects of successfully implementing these changes to your life. As always, please consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or exercise regimen.
SOURCES-www.healthline.com