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Your gut is the long tube that goes from your mouth passage right through to your anus. It includes all organs responsible for digestion including the oesophagus, stomach, liver and small intestine.
Without the gut, your body wouldn’t be able to extract nutrients and absorb energy from the foods you eat.
With such an important role to play in the functioning of your body, ensuring your gut functions normally should be of top priority. Within this guide, you will learn about five proven ways to improve gut health. We will also take you through common signs of an unhealthy gut.
Signs Of An Unhealthy Gut
There are many factors that may contribute towards an unhealthy gut. Cases will vary between individuals, but more times than not, the following areas are a result of poor digestive performance (NHS, 2021):
- Upset stomach
- Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea)
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
While the above symptoms often go away on their own, visit your doctor if you are experiencing severe or ongoing problems. Frequent problems may be a sign of a more serious digestive illness.
How To Improve Gut Health
- Lower Stress Levels
Did you know that lifestyle factors, particularly stressful ones, may impact your digestive system? To potentially prevent or relieve the symptoms of an unhealthy gut, consider carrying out some exercises to reduce stress. Whether you practise meditation or go for a walk; there are many ways to do this.
- Check For Food Intolerances
Food intolerances occur when your body has trouble digesting particular foods. This can cause problems like bloating, cramping, nausea and heartburn.
If you suspect that your body is reacting badly to certain foods, keep a food diary and try to eliminate the food from your diet. By eliminating the food that seems to be causing problems, you may notice some positive changes in your digestive system.
- Stay Hydrated
Water is an essential nutrient for life. It helps all bodily functions to work properly, including your gut. It also helps to remove waste from the body, which is an important part of the digestive process.
With the above information in mind, it’s clear to see how important it is to remain hydrated throughout the day. Always aim to drink at least 1.5 litres every single day.
- Change Your Diet
Making positive changes to your diet may help towards the normal functioning of your gut. Eating plenty of greens and lean protein in oppose to high-sugar and high-fat foods will help here. Increasing your fibre intake will also help to prevent any unwanted changes in bowel movements.
- Support Your Digestive System
Your digestive system is incredible, but sometimes, it may need extra support to function normally. If you feel as though you’re experiencing signs of an unhealthy gut, consider taking turmeric tablets. Turmeric is a spice famously known for contributing to the normal function of the immune system. Taking these tablets or incorporating more turmeric into your diet may help to reduce symptoms of a poor gut.