How to improve gut health

The term “Gut Health” refers to the physical state and function of the gastrointestinal tract. When we talk about improving gut health, we must consider certain factors that can affect the balance of bacteria in the many parts of the gastrointestinal tract.

Intestinal health is an essential process in which, to achieve it, we must avoid certain behaviors and certain eating rituals that, in the long term, can cause damage to the stomach.

Recognizing the state of our gut health is very easy. We only have to consider the behavior of our intestinal activity after ingesting food. If we experience symptoms such as, for example:

•  Stomach pains.
•  Diarrhea.
•  Acidity.
•  Swollen abdomen.
•  Constipation.
• Among many other symptoms,

they indicate that your bowel activity is not working correctly.

A good diet will help your gut health problems disappear.

This means that we must refine our way of eating. Knowing that each food has a genetic component and that by exposing it to our body and feeding on it, we can take advantage of each nutrient.

When these foods are processed and artificial, containing emulsifiers, stabilizers, or thickeners to improve the quality of the product, they might cause more harm than good. That’s where good nutrition comes in. Good nutrition means your body gets all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals it needs to work its best, therefore, a better benefit to your health.

Consider this when it comes to eating and improving your gut health.

• A balanced diet is composed of proteins, healthy carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits, and starches, rich in fiber. Those nutrients should always be present in a dietary regimen to improve intestinal activities.
• Anything that has to do with sugars or overly processed foods or even drinks with high sugar content such as sodas is usually detrimental to your health.
• Good quality meat is important. Meat itself is not “bad”, it provides high-quality protein and important nutrients, like vitamin B12, iron, and zinc. But not all meats are created equal. Sausages for example are not recommended too often as they contain a lot of fat and are highly processed products.
• Practicing any kind of sports activity is essential. It is vital to move, exercise, and activate your muscles.
• Stress management is fundamental. And having a healthy gut will help you lower your stress level.

Those recommendations are important, because not only eating well will improve your body to function better, but learning, and knowing the type of food you eat can and will improve your quality of life.

The way your look, and feel will improve. People who make mindful food choices are able to take charge of their appetite, eating behaviors, and ultimately their weight, and how they feel and live.

Why do stomach problems occur?

One of the leading causes of knowing or wanting to improve intestinal health starts with the idea that we live a very accelerated lifestyle. Many of us consume mainly highly processed foods – which are quick to make -and then continue with our fast rhythm of life.

This is usually the number one cause of suffering and creates some damage to the intestinal area. Bottom line, to improve our gut health and avoid intestinal problems, it all goes back to eating variety of “real” foods that will provide an abundance of nutrients to impact our gut positively. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Adequate fluid intake is essential for the health of all organ systems and the health of our gut.

What if the problem persists despite good nutrition?

A healthy gut means you have a good balance of bacteria or microbes in your gastrointestinal tract. Bad bacteria can thrive when your body doesn’t have enough good bacteria.

The following can be signs of a gut bacteria imbalance:

• constipation, diarrhea, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome
• unexplained weight gain,
• mood disorder (anxiety, depression,)
• skin rashes, allergies
• arthritis
• sleep issues
• sugar craving

Most people can enhance their gut health naturally through diet. However, if the problem persists, go and see your doctor about your gut health.

What is the best you can do then?

If you want to learn to eat foods that help with your intestinal activity and transit, then the best thing you can do is apply the recommendations mentioned above to improve your body.

To improve your gut health, eat a diverse diet rich in whole foods that can lead to a diverse microbiome, which is beneficial for your health.

To improve your gut health:

• eat whole food such as fresh lean proteins, whole grains, fresh products, high fiber vegetables, fruits, and whole grains,
• cut back on processed food
• enjoy fermented foods like plain yogurt that can benefit the microbiome
• drink plenty of water

What you eat can quickly change your microbes. Your gut bacteria are extremely important for many aspects of health. The key to living a healthy life is to combine foods that provide benefits, vitamins, and minerals for a better quality of life.

Please share that information with your loved ones and those who need to improve their quality of life. I am here to help if you need support.

If you want to lose weight and improve your intestinal health with a certified Nutrition and Wellness Coach, you can try Audrey Meyer‘s 21dayfix program.