Gut Health: The Key to Overall Well-being

Did you know your gut may be the root of your chronic symptoms even if you’ve never had any digestive complaints? If you struggle to lose weight, suffer from an autoimmune disease like asthma or arthritis, experience headaches, allergies or fibromyalgia, the real cause could very well be an unhealthy gut. This can be defined as a leaky gut or an imbalanced microbiome (AKA dysbiosis). The human body is home to trillions of microbes, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. These microbes collectively form the human microbiome. A leaky gut is the result of damage/inflammation to the gut lining. 

The gut is often referred to as the “second brain.”  This is because the microbiome influences mental health and has been linked to conditions such as depression and anxiety through the gut-brain axis. We know that over 90% of neurotransmitters are made in the gut and over 70% of the immune system resides in the gut. For every 1 signal the brain sends to the gut, the gut is sending 10 to the brain. The human body contains more microbial cells than human cells. Maintaining a balanced microbiome through a healthy diet, lifestyle, and possibly probiotic and prebiotic supplementation is essential for overall well-being.

So how do you know if you have an unhealthy gut? You may have obvious digestive symptoms such as gas, diarrhea bloating, constipation, ect. You may have cravings, especially for sugar, this can be a sign of yeast overgrowth. Or you may have more general health complaints such as fatigue, skin conditions, autoimmune conditions, mood changes, or frequent infections. In addition, if you eat a poor diet, have high stress levels, drink alcohol, take certain medications or have had antibiotics within the last few years, you are at a high risk for leaky gut or dysbiosis. 

There are several  diagnostic tests used to assess gut health, such as stool analysis, organic acids testing, breath test and blood tests. Recommendations for treatment and lifestyle changes are very personalized to each individual. There is no one size fits all approach. However, something highly effective that everyone can do is to practice mindful eating techniques. Mindful eating involves first making sure that we are eating in a calm environment and a relaxed state of mind. Sit down while eating. Don’t eat in the car or while watching TV or scrolling. You can take a few deep breaths and express gratitude prior to eating. Use all your senses to enhance the experience. Make sure to chew every bit 20-30 times, this is crucial to aid in digestion. Lastly, don’t rush to get up from the table after you finish eating. Stay seated and relaxed for even as little as 30 seconds. These techniques make much more of a difference than you would expect in regards to proper digestion, nutrient absorption and reduction of overeating.