The term ‘gut’ describes the entire digestive tract, which includes your stomach and small and large intestines.
The breakdown of the food you eat and the absorption of the nutrients your body needs to function is handled by your stomach. Additionally essential to the immune system’s operation is your stomach.
Your daily mood, physical and mental health, and overall well-being can all be greatly impacted by the condition of your digestive system.
Trillions of bacteria comprise the gut microbiome, which is found in your stomach. Both beneficial and potentially hazardous bacteria are found in the gut microbiome. Good bacteria are necessary for a healthy gut. Possessing a diverse range of beneficial microorganisms can improve your mental and physical well-being.
Why is the health of your gut important?
Your general health is significantly influenced by your gut’s condition and microbiota. It can affect the immune and metabolic systems of your body as well as your mood and behavior.
For gut health, a variety of bacteria are essential. Your chance of experiencing chronic (long-term) health issues may also be influenced by the kinds of bacteria in your gut microbiome.
The variety of bacteria in the stomach of persons with chronic conditions such as psoriatic arthritis, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, atopic eczema, celiac disease, obesity, and arterial stiffness is fewer than that of people without these conditions. Research is ongoing to determine the precise involvement of the gut microbiota in various disorders.
Additionally, there are connections between gut health and mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. There are links between mental health issues and gut microbiota health, according to recent studies.
What signs point to an unhealthy gut?
The following are signs of poor gut health:
- stomach bloating
- reflux
- stomach ache or discomfort in the abdomen
- excessive farting and burping of the stomach
- snarling abdomen
- nausea
- bowel obstructions or diarrhea
Occasionally, you could feel a lot of these sensations. If they occur frequently, though, it can indicate that your gut isn’t doing well.
What is the root reason for poor gut health?
An unbalanced or disturbed gut microbiota can be brought about by a number of circumstances. Dysbiosis is the term for this process. Causes of dysbiosis include:
- tension
- sickness
- having a weight problem
- overuse of antibiotics
- consuming a subpar diet
Normally, your gut contains a unique barrier that allows nutrients to enter but prevents dangerous substances and germs from entering the bloodstream. This barrier becomes ‘leakier’ during dysbiosis, allowing unwanted bacteria and chemicals to enter the bloodstream. Numerous distinct issues with both physical and mental health have been connected to this procedure.
Your gastrointestinal system can be impacted by a broad variety of illnesses. Illnesses as peptic ulcer disease, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel disease can have a significant effect on both your overall physical and digestive health. Your doctor must closely monitor these conditions, and you might need to consult a specialist (such as a gastroenterologist) for knowledgeable guidance.
What can I do to make my gut healthier?
If you have a gastrointestinal illness and have poor gut health, you may help improve your gut health by listening to your doctor, taking your medication as prescribed, and adhering to the suggested diet.
Nutrition
Find out from your doctor how making dietary changes can help your gut. The general guidelines for a healthy diet apply to most people.
Eat a wide range of plant-based foods, such as the following:
- veggies
- fruit
- legumes and beans
- whole grains
Numerous vitamins, minerals, and other elements necessary for optimal health can be found in these foods. They also include prebiotic fibers, which are indigestible fibers that support the development of “good bacteria” in the gut but are not digested themselves.
Furthermore beneficial to gut health is fermented food. Foods that have undergone fermentation include sugar that has been broken down by yeast or bacteria. Probiotics, or healthy bacteria that are helpful for your gut, are abundant in fermented meals. Foods that are fermented include:
- yogurt
- kimchi
- Pickles
- Kombucha
- miso
- Sourdough
It is best to avoid foods that can be harmful to gut health, like highly processed foods and foods containing high levels of sugar, salt, and saturated fats.
Addenda
Good bacteria and yeasts can be found in probiotic pills. Probiotics can help balance the gut microbiome, especially in people whose gut microbiome has been impacted by antibiotics, other medicines, special diets, or diseases.
Lifestyle
Gut health is also influenced by physical activity, stress, sleep, antibiotic use, and other lifestyle and environmental factors. You must manage your stress, stay physically active, and ensure that you get enough sleep.
When should I see my doctor?
If you are experiencing any symptoms of poor gut health, you should see your doctor. If your doctor has given you a prescription, referral, or treatment for gut problems, and your condition has not resolved, be sure to make another appointment for review.
Talk to your doctor for advice about healthy eating and a recommended exercise plan. Your doctor may also refer you to a dietitian for nutrition advice, to help you set and achieve nutrition-related goals, and to promote gut health.