Improving and Understanding Gut Health and Digestion
Introduction
Being in good shape and functioning properly is the reason why gut health is a trending focus. The gastrointestinal (GI) tract) or gut, is crucial for digestion, immunity, and mental well-being. Gut balance enhances one’s energy, skin, mood, and immunity. In this article, we’ll discuss what is gut health, digestion and how to naturally care for a healthy gut.
What Is Gut Health?
Digestion tract health or gut health is the state of balance and functioning of the bacteria and other living microorganisms that inhabit your intestine. Gut microorganisms, often called microbiomer, assist one’s body in digesting food, absorbing nutrients, and even protecting one against harmful pathogens. Sufficient digestion is vital for the body to remain fit and healthy. However when one experiences bloating, constipation, fatigue, and lowered immunity, it is clear that the digestion system is out of balance.
The Digestion Process
Chewing food starts the process of digestion. Carbohydrates begin cleaving thanks to salivary enzymes present in the mouth. After that, food moves to the stomach for further digestion, where protein breakdown takes place due to the action of pepsin, an enzyme present in the stomach. The partially digested food then enters the small intestine, where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs, with water reabsorption happening in the large intestine, where waste is formed for elimination. Throughout this process, gut bacteria help digest food and biosynthesize essential B12 and K vitamins.
Indicators of Impaired Gut Health
Signs of an unhealthy gut may include, but are not limited to:
Intense bloating or gas pains
An erratic bowel cycle either with diarrhea or constipation
Sensitivity to certain foods
Chronic fatigue
Acne or Eczema flareups
Low immunity or catching colds frequently.
Mood Swings or Brain Fog
Ways to Naturally Enhance Gut Health
Here are some actionable ways to improve your digestive health:
Eat more fibrous food
Fiber is able to provide food for beneficial gut microbes. So fruits, vegetables, legumes, and wheat products should all be part of your diet.
Incorporate Fermented Foods
Probiotic rich sources like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and even kombucha can help restore gut flora.
Stay Hydrated
Water’s role in digestion is critical in aiding in the transport of nutrients throughout the body.
Limit Processed Foods and Sugar
Having too much refined foods and sugars leads to imbalance and increased inflammation in a person’s microbiome.
Control Stress
Sustained stress will affect digestion and the flora of the gut. Practice meditative breathing, meditative exercises, or simply exercises on a normal basis.
Get Quality Sleep
Quality sleep is essential, as lack of it alters gut flora and slows down the rate of digestion to a significant extent. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep.
Conclusion
Nourishing your body with healthy food, controlling stress, maintaining hydration levels, and cultivating other good habits empowers you to feel great and improves your digestion. This indicates that good gut health is crucial to overall wellness. If symptoms persist, always contact your healthcare provider for a customized plan tailored to your needs.
