Gut health is very important to overall health.
When it comes to our overall health, the digestive system plays a huge role in everything from your daily comfort level, to the proper functioning of your immune system. Neglecting your gut can lead to a slew of disease and syndromes like IBS, SIBO, and Crohn’s disease.
The health of your digestive system can be subject to hereditary and environmental factors (like altitude), but the biggest way you can impact gut health is with your diet.
If you are concerned that your digestive system isn’t operating properly, or you just want a more regular schedule, try adding these three things into your life.
Fiber- Fiber is important to digestive health because it keeps things moving. If you live in high altitude or drier climates, you may need to supplement your diet with more fiber to keep your gut healthy. You can get fiber from leafy greens, chia seeds, beans, avocado, almonds, and raspberries.
Probiotics- Probiotics, like those found in dairy cultures yogurt, and kombucha are essentially microorganism that help keep your digestive system flowing by feeding the ‘good bacteria’ that naturally flourishes there. Probiotics can also help you maintain your weight, fight bloating, and improve the immune system. Probiotics can also be found in sauerkraut, kimchi, greek yogurt, miso, and dairy-free kefir.
READ MORE: Five Things You Should Know About Probiotics
Supplements- Regardless of how well you eat, supplements can always help pick up some of the slack. Especially in terms of probiotics and fiber, taking a daily supplement can help keep you on track so you worry a little less about what you eat, and still maintain optimal digestive health. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about which supplements are right for you.
If you don’t take care of your digestive system, it can lead to much more serious health problems down the road.
So take a look at your diet today, and decide if a little re-arranging is necessary in order to keep your systems running smoothly.
It can even effect your mental health! Depression and anxiety all from bloating and the slew of diseases you’ve mentioned.