6 Simple Ways To Better Your Gut Health

The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to its significant impact on overall well-being. When your gut health is out of balance, you may notice a range of changes that extend beyond digestive discomfort. In this blog post, we'll explore the subtle and not-so-subtle signs that may indicate poor gut health. Recognising these signs is crucial for taking proactive steps towards restoring balance in your digestive system and nurturing your gut microbiome.

Common Signs of Poor Gut Health:

Digestive Discomfort

Skin Troubles

Your skin and gut are often discussed together in relation to overall wellbeing. If you observe signs of irritation such as redness, swelling, or general discomfort, it could be a sign of digestive system imbalance.

Low Energy Levels

The gut plays a role in how we process and use nutrients from food. Low energy can be influenced by many factors, including sleep, stress, and overall diet. If you’re feeling low on energy, even when you’re doing all the “right” things, it may be a sign your body needs additional support. Looking after your digestive wellbeing is one part of building a more consistent, sustainable energy baseline.

Food Intolerance

If you've recently developed sensitivities to foods that were once well tolerated, it may be linked to changes in your overall gut environment. Our bodies are highly adaptive, and shifts in how you respond to certain foods can happen over time.

Craving Sugary Foods

Cravings, especially for sugar, are often influenced by things like stress, sleep, and overall eating habits. Diets high in added sugars can shift your overall dietary balance, which is why focusing on whole, nourishing foods can make a big difference to how you feel day to day.

Immune Defences Are Down

The gut and immune system are closely connected, and they often work alongside each other in supporting overall wellbeing. Some people notice digestive changes such as bloating or irregular bowel patterns when their body is under more pressure than usual. These kinds of signals can be a reminder to slow down and focus on supporting your body with nourishing foods, rest, and lifestyle balance.

The Best Foods to Nurture Your Gut:

Fostering good gut health involves incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods that promote a balanced and diverse microbiome. Here's a list of foods that can nurture your gut microbiome in a positive way:

Probiotic-Rich Foods:

• Yoghurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha
• Super Greens + Reds (contains our award-winning probiotic BC30® (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6068)
• Thriving Family contains our award-winning probiotic BC30® (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6068)

Prebiotic Rich-Foods:

• Garlic
• Onions
• Leeks
• Asparagus
• Jerusalem artichokes
• Super Tummy (contains 5 different prebiotic fibres - the more the merrier - which can feed the good gut bacteria, creating a flourishing gut microbiome)
• Super Greens + Reds (contains 3 prebiotic fibres)

Fibre-Rich Foods

• Whole grains
• Legumes
• Fruits
• Vegetables

Amino-Acid Rich Foods

Broth: Contains collagen, key amino acids and minerals that support gut wellbeing. Luckily for that we have an entire range with 15 different broth varieties where you can choose from: beef, chicken and even veggie! We’ve GUT you covered.

Collagen: Beauty, Body or Build provide key amino acids as part of a balanced diet.

Colourful fruits and vegetables containing antioxidants (polyphenols)

• Berries
• Spinach
• Kale
• Bell peppers contain polyphenols with potential benefits for gut health.
• Green Tea or Matcha
• Acai Berry Blend, which contains a variety of antioxidants coming from wholefoods

Filtered Water

As you embark on your journey toward holistic health, don't underestimate the significance of staying well-hydrated. Prioritise the consumption of filtered water to support your digestive processes and keep your body operating at its best!

Plus 8 More Lifestyle Changes for Gut Health

Embarking on a journey toward better gut health involves more than just tweaking your diet; it requires holistic lifestyle changes that resonate with your body's intricate ecosystem. We'll explore adjustments you can make to nurture your gut and optimise your digestive wellness.

1. Mindful Eating
   The practice of being fully present, consciously paying attention to each aspect of the eating experience, from the taste and texture of food to the thoughts and emotions associated with the act of eating. This practice not only fosters a healthier relationship with food but also aids in proper digestion.
2. Prioritise Sleep
   Quality sleep is a cornerstone of overall well-being, including digestive health. Establishing a consistent sleep routine supports the body's natural repair and renewal processes, contributing to a balanced gut environment.
3. Manage Stress
   Stress can wreak havoc on your digestive system. Incorporate stress-management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to create a more harmonious balance between mind and gut connection.
4. Regular Exercise
   Physical activity not only promotes overall health but also supports a diverse and robust gut microbiome. Aim for a mix of aerobic exercises and strength training to keep your digestive system in top form.
5. Stay Hydrated
   Adequate water intake is fundamental to optimal digestion. Make a conscious effort to drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day, ensuring your body has the hydration it needs for smooth digestive processes.
6. Include Fermented Foods
   Incorporate a variety of fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi into your diet. These foods are rich in probiotics, fostering a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut.
7. Limit Processed Foods and Sugar
   Processed foods and excess sugar can disrupt the delicate balance of your gut microbiome. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods and minimise added sugars to create an environment that supports gut health.
8. Pause & Listen to Your Body
   Listening to your body is a skill that involves tuning into its subtle cues and signals, acknowledging both its physical and emotional needs. It begins with cultivating a heightened awareness of sensations like hunger, fullness, and satisfaction during meals. Pay attention to how different foods make you feel and any reactions your body might have. Regular self-check-ins help identify patterns and provide insights into your body's unique responses to various activities, foods, and stressors. Practising mindfulness, whether through activities like meditation or simply being present in the moment, can further enhance your ability to listen to and honour what your body is telling you. The key is to foster a compassionate and intuitive connection with your body, recognising that it communicates its needs and preferences in ways that deserve attention and respect.

Check out our wholefoods to deeply nourish your gut health.

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