Understanding The Digestive System
The digestive system has several organs, including the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Within the network, the average person has about 300-500 different species of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The bacteria totals in the billions, with hundreds more species recently discovered by researchers. This is known as the gut microbiome. Some are helpful probiotics, and some are harmful to a personís overall health. Creating a balance between the two types of bacteria is vital for digestive health.
What are probiotics?
The term probiotic has been used in the medical and supplement space for years. Probiotics are the good, live bacteria that live in the gut. These healthy bacteria help support the immune system and control inflammation. The primary goal of probiotics is to keep a healthy balance in the body, namely the gastrointestinal tract.
How do probiotics work?
When a person is sick or exposed to harmful bacteria, the bacteria can offset the balance in the digestive system. This is where good bacteria, or probiotics, work to fight off the harmful bacteria and restore balance. Probiotics also support the cells that line the gut and help with vitamin absorption.
Signs you need to improve your digestive system
A wide variety of good and bad bacteria helps the immune system, fights depression, combats obesity, and contributes to other health benefits. Here are 3 signs to look for that point to an unhealthy gut:
- 1. Consistent upset stomach
An upset stomach is one of the most common signs of an issue with the digestive system. Doctors classify an upset stomach as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn. A balanced gut will have fewer challenges in processing food and eliminating waste. In a survey of more than 2,000 adults, 72% of Americans experience one or more of these symptoms. - A sweet diet, a sour stomach
A diet high in processed food and added sugars can lower good bacteria in the gut. The imbalance raises sugar cravings, creating a cycle that further harms the intestines. Additionally, consuming refined sugars like high-fructose corn syrup is linked to increased inflammation in the digestive system. - Drastic changes in weight
Rapid weight gain or loss without making changes to a diet or exercise may be a sign of digestive issues. An imbalance in the system hurts the body’s ability to process nutrients, regulate blood sugar, and store fat. Adversely, weight loss can then be the result of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, known as SIBO.
Revive your gut
Experiencing problems with digestive health? Consider adding a daily probiotic supplement to the diet. Probiotics help to promote the growth of good bacteria and maintain a healthy balance. Besides taking probiotics, consider a diet review to focus on foods that can help regulate gut health. To be sure, consult a healthcare provider before taking new supplements.
