Your gut plays a central role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune system support, and even your mental health. It impacts your overall well-being and long-term health. Luckily if you have poor gut health, there are several key ways to improve it, such as eating a diverse range of foods, managing stress, staying hydrated, and working with a Gut Health Specialist.
What is the Role of the Gut?
The gut, or gastrointestinal tract, is a complex system filled with trillions of microorganisms collectively known as the microbiome. This microbiome serves a multifaceted role in our overall health. Its primary functions include breaking down the food we consume, facilitating nutrient absorption, and synthesizing essential vitamins and minerals.
A healthy gut microbiome actively supports our immune system, defending against harmful pathogens while maintaining a balanced immune response. Emerging research also highlights the gut-brain connection, suggesting that the microbiome might influence mental health and mood regulation.
The gut can impact our hormonal balance, potentially influencing weight management and overall hormonal health. Additionally, a well-functioning gut is crucial for digestive health, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing disorders like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease. When a gut becomes imbalanced, it could even lead to autoimmune diseases. Maintaining a balanced gut is essential for long-term health and overall well-being.
10 Ways To Improve Gut Health
Below are 10 specific things you can do to potentially improve your gut health and feel better:
- Eat A Diverse Range of Foods
A diverse diet encourages a more diverse microbiome, which can support better gut health. Incorporate a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your meals. - Consume More Fiber
High-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Fiber also helps regulate bowel movements and prevents constipation. - Include Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health. Examples include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. - Take Probiotics
Probiotic supplements can be beneficial, especially if you have digestive issues or have taken antibiotics, which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation. - Avoid Excessive Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners
High sugar intake can negatively impact gut health by promoting the growth of harmful bacteria. Artificial sweeteners can also disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. - Limit Processed Foods
Processed foods often contain additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats that can harm your gut health. Choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. - Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut lining. Aim for at least eight glasses (64 ounces) of water per day, or more if you’re physically active. - Manage Stress
Chronic stress can negatively affect gut health by altering the composition of gut bacteria. Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or regular exercise. - Get Enough Sleep
Poor sleep can quickly disrupt the gut microbiome and lead to digestive issues. Try to get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep per night to support gut health. - Exercise Regularly
Physical activity promotes a healthy gut by increasing the diversity of gut bacteria and improving overall digestive function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per day.
Do I Need To See a Gut Health Specialist?
If you try some of the above without any luck, a Gut Health Specialist can be extremely effective in helping you feel better and reach peak health. During your first appointment, they will provide you with a comprehensive evaluation to assess your current health and discuss any symptoms you are experiencing. This gives them a deeper understanding of the issues you are facing, as well as learning more about your diet.
After the evaluation, they will create a customized plan to improve your gut health and restore your overall health. Treatment will vary based on your specific needs, but typically will include a combination of:
- Taking prebiotic and probiotic supplements
- Learning about which foods you should avoid (such as processed carbohydrates)
- Finding foods you like that are full of natural prebiotics and probiotics (including fermented foods, fruits and vegetables, and more)
- Taking clinical-grade nutritional dietary supplements to improve your digestive system and gut bacteria
- Using peptide therapy to heal the gut lining
- Combining functional medicine with quantum energy and quantum diagnostics, and turning them into healing energies
What are the Benefits of a Healthy Gut?
- Better weight maintenance
- More energy
- Enhanced mental clarity
- Stronger immune system
- Vibrant, clear skin
- Improved regularity
- Decreased pain
- Decreased inflammation
- Improved satiety
- And more
What are the Symptoms of Poor Gut Health?
If you notice any of the below symptoms, the issue could be your overall gut health. Working with a Gut Health Specialist can help to identify the digestive tract issues and resolve them, helping you feel your best.
- Digestive issues (bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation)
- Skin issues (including acne and eczema)
- Changes in mood
- Autoimmune diseases
- Food intolerances
- Unexplained changes in weight
- Persistent fatigue and low energy
- Difficulty sleeping
- Allergies and sensitivities
- Frequent colds
- Joint pain
- Inflammation
- And more
Gut Health Treatment at National Wellness Group
National Wellness Group specializes in gut health treatment, helping patients achieve peak health and optimal vitality. As a value-based clinic (rather than volume-based), we provide individualized care and natural treatments that work in harmony with your body.