Why Joining The ‘Gut Health’ Movement Is More Important Than You Think.
I have a gut feeling that this article might be a game-changer.
Why? Because today, we’re talking about the importance of gut health. Not only is this something we should all be paying attention to, but it's also remarkably simple to immediately improve your gut health. So, what have you been waiting for? Let’s dive in.
Coming in at almost 15 feet in length, your gut does so much more than just support your body’s digestion. This giant human organ, sometimes known as your second brain, is essential to various aspects of your health, from digestion and nutrient absorption to immune function and mental well-being.
Recent scientific discoveries have highlighted a deep connection between your gut and the rest of your body, emphasizing the significance of maintaining a balanced and thriving gut microbiome and its impact on the rest of your body.
But here’s the thing. How often has your gut sprung to mind when thinking about your health and well-being? Yes, even we can admit that’s not very often. Gut health is rarely discussed, so it’s often dismissed as less important than healthy goals such as a good diet and exercise.
The reality is that everything is connected. Enter the 'Gut Health' movement, where science meets intuition, and the key to a healthier life lies within your digestive system. Want to get involved? Let’s learn about why you should start feeding your gut today…
Why is my gut important?
When talking about your gut, we’re referring to multiple organs that comprise your digestive system. This includes the stomach, intestines, and colon. So obviously, digestion is the first significant benefit of your gut. Your gut breaks down food, absorbs nutrients, and tosses waste, helping your body nourish and stay healthy.
But here's the real kicker— your gut is also a crucial part of your immune system. There are thought to be 100 trillion microbes found in the gut of every single human being. Within that, 5,000 species are doing their bit to help keep your body in check. (Yes, we’re talking good gut bacteria — more on that later!)
As well as brimming with goodness, your gut is also believed to influence your mood and stress levels. That’s because your gut bacteria produce 95% of your body’s serotonin, which we know is a natural mood enhancer. What’s more, your gut has been linked to the way you sleep, signs of depression or anxiety, and a wealth of other bodily sensations that are being influenced by your body’s inner piping system. That's right, the gut-brain connection is real, impacting everything from your cravings to your mental clarity.
Ever heard of the phrase ‘trust your gut’? Your gut is also intelligent and comprises a bunch of neurons chatting away. A happy gut often means a happier you. It's not just about feeling good after a meal; it's about setting the stage for your whole body to bring its A-game.
What we’re trying to say is to treat your gut right; it might return the favor with all-around wellness vibes.
What are good and bad gut bacteria?
We all have good and bad bacteria living in our gut, but what’s important is helping them remain in balance. Studies have shown that you should have around 85% good gut bacteria and 15% harmful bacteria.
Good gut bacteria, often called probiotics, are friendly residents living within your gut that are crucial in maintaining a balanced and healthy digestive system. They help to break down food, absorb nutrients, and even contribute to the synthesis of vitamins. These bacteria come with funky names like bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria.
On the flip side, bad gut bacteria, sometimes called pathogenic bacteria, can be troublesome as they disrupt the harmony of your gut operating system. When there are not enough good bacteria, that’s when the bad bacteria start to thrive. We’re talking about the stomach upsets you may get on holiday, abdominal cramps, and frequent toilet activities. Bad bacteria also come with funk scientific names like Staphylococcus, clostridium perfringens, and E.coli.
How to join the gut health movement
As alarming as it may sound, research has unveiled that 95% of Americans fall short of meeting their daily fibre requirements. This shows a critical gap in the nutrition most consume compared to the stuff needed for optimal gut health.
But your gut health isn’t just about counting your vitamins and minerals; it’s about fundamentally reimagining your relationship with food. That’s why we should all jump on the gut health bandwagon today.
So how do we do this? Ok, the Gut Health Movement is more of a personal project we can work toward. Here’s our top tips:
Start by reassessing your diet — and exploring whole, unprocessed foods that are abundant in fiber, like fruits, leafy veg, and whole grains. We’re looking for food that makes you feel good while also doing good for your insides.
Embrace the world of fermented foods (we’re talking sauerkraut, kimchi, and - our favourite - kombucha) as they help to infuse your gut with beneficial probiotics.
Don’t forget the unsung heroes found in foods like garlic and asparagus, which nourish your gut's microbial community. Do your research about which foods pack the most punch, and slowly start adapting them into your routine.
Remember, it's not merely about what you consume but how you consume it. So practice mindful eating and appreciating what you’re putting into your body. On top of that, be conscious of your stress levels and remember that enhancing your good gut microbes can work wonders.
Joining the gut health movement is not just about shaking up your diet; it's about creating a holistic commitment to loving the symbiotic relationships inside you.
Are you ready to get started?
WHATS UP NEXT…
