How To Improve The Gut’s Microbiome
Digestion issues such as diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, and gas affect nearly everyone, but for some individuals, digestive issues can be a reoccurring problem. Managing the gut microbiome, or the collection of living organisms in the gastrointestinal tract can keep gut health in check. Luckily, a few lifestyle changes can improve gut health and boost a person’s digestive system.
How gut health works
The stomach contains numerous bacteria that compose a person’s digestive microbiome, as well as help digest food and turn nutrients into energy. Good bacteria can not only help with digestion but can also reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the microbiome. An unhealthy balance of bacteria can lead to conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis (UC), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Changing the way you eat and live
Digestive issues vary from person to person. Improving gut health takes patience and mindfulness to avoid any painful bouts of gut problems. The speed of eating and the way a person chews can also affect the breakdown of the food and nutrient absorption. Eating slowly and chewing food properly are just a few ways people can improve gut problems.
1. Optimize your diet
Digestive disorders can worsen by eating a diet high in saturated fat, refined carbs, sugars, and anything processed. People with gut health issues should eat a diet based on whole foods, especially plant-based foods, and healthy fats. Also, a diet high in fiber can promote regular bowel movements.
2. Change unhealthy lifestyle habits
A wide range of lifestyle habits such as stressing out, smoking, alcohol use, mindless eating, and minimal exercise contribute to a very unhealthy digestive system. Healthy lifestyle choices such as staying hydrated, lowering stress levels, practicing mindfulness, and getting regular exercise can reduce the symptoms of many gastrointestinal conditions.
3. Take gut-friendly nutrients
Some nutrients may be uniquely beneficial for an improved digestive tract. For example, prebiotics and probiotics are alternative ways to feed gut bacteria or introduce live good bacteria, respectively. Glutamine has been shown to reduce leaky gut symptoms. Zinc has been shown to treat leaky gut, diarrhea, colitis, and other digestive problems.
Improving gut health is possible
While some patients may treat gut health problems like lifelong conditions, patients can make easy diet and lifestyle changes to reduce the severity and frequency of digestive symptoms. Healthy eating habits can be introduced slowly and consistently to reap the health benefits in the long run. To learn more about boosting gut health, speak with a healthcare provider.
