Gut health wellness is a phrase used to refer to the overall health and well-being of the digestive system. The digestive system includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. When the digestive system is not functioning properly, it can lead to digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What Causes Poor Gut Health?
Poor gut health can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor dietary choices, lack of physical activity, stress, medications, and environmental factors. Poor diet can lead to an imbalance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can lead to digestive issues. Stress can also affect gut health, as a person’s body produces more cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, when they’re feeling stressed. Medications, such as antibiotics and corticosteroids, can also affect the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Benefits of Good Gut Health
Good gut health is associated with a number of health benefits, including improved digestion, better absorption of nutrients, better immune system functioning, and improved mental health. Good gut health can help reduce the risk of certain digestive diseases, such as IBS, IBD, and GERD. Additionally, good gut health can help improve overall health, as the gut is responsible for many bodily functions.
How to Improve Gut Health
Improving gut health can be done through making healthy lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress levels, and avoiding medications that can affect gut health. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help maintain a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Exercise can also help improve gut health, as it helps reduce stress levels and promotes better digestion. Additionally, managing stress levels and avoiding medications that can affect gut health can help improve gut health.