Gut health is one of the key foundations for our health. Have you heard the quote by Hippocrates ‘All Disease Begins in the Gut?’
Our gut health can impact many aspects of our health from digestive, immunity, mood and even weight. A healthy gut is responsible for ensuring you can metabolise, assimilate and utilise the nutrients from our food.
The microbes in our gut have a huge impact on our overall health.
There are approximately ten times as many micro-organisms in our gastrointestinal system than there are cells in our body, the majority being bacteria. This is known as our microbiome.
Signs and symptoms that your gut needs some support include:
Bloating,
Burping,
Indigestion
Reflux
Altered stools
Constipation
Nausea
Upset stomach
The best way to keep our microbiome happy is by eating a whole food diet, as close to Nature as possible with plenty of fresh vegetables, fruit, and whole grains.
Prebiotics
Certain foods are known as prebiotics help boost our good bacteria and increase their diversity.
Dietary fibre is an integral part of overall health and particularly our gut health.
Certain foods, especially plant fibres that our body can’t digest, encourage the growth of good bacteria.
Inulin is one of the best-known prebiotics and is found in many different foods. In particular:
- Onions, leek and garlic,
- Jerusalem artichoke,
- Asparagus,
- Bananas,
- Dandelion greens,
- Endive
Leaky Gut
The innermost layer of the gastrointestinal tract that lines the stomach and intestinal walls is known as the mucosal layer. ‘Leaky gut’ or ‘Intestinal permeability’ is when the tight junctions between these cells loosen.
Glutamine
One of the best nutrients to help with leaky gut is glutamine.
Glutamine is an amino acid that can help rejuvenate the gut wall lining by preventing and repairing intestinal permeability. It is found in all animal proteins and most plant proteins and is abundant in bone broth.
Slippery elm
Slippery elm has been used traditionally for all types of gastrointestinal inflammation and irritation. It soothes and calms an irritated gut and helps with diarrhoea.
If taking slippery elm, make sure that you have plenty of water.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has been used traditionally to help soothe and cool conditions associated with inflammation of the skin.
The juice can also help reduce irritation of the gastrointestinal system and reduce inflammation.
Ginger
Ginger improves blood circulation and helps reduce nausea and flatulence. It is also a potent anti-inflammatory.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a wonderful herb not only for reducing inflammation but is a great antioxidant and can enhance liver detoxification
Mindful eating.
Lastly, allow yourself some time to sit and enjoy your meal. Turn off distractions such as the TV, computer, and phone. Enjoy your food, eat slowly, savouring the taste. Giving your attention to your meal encourages digestion and helps with nutrient absorption.
For more information or if you would like to make an appointment for a Naturopathic consult please get in contact.
Many thanks
Jules