Last week I FINALLY had my colonoscopy (thank you to all of my followers and friends who suggested the great tips for getting the prep done). I will be writing more about that soon. As I sit here waiting for my biopsy results to come back, I was weeding through my email and found this great article about gut health from Gastroenterology of Greater Orlando. They gave me permission to share the article with you.
As I’ve aged my gut has definitely taken a turn in a different direction, and I learned so much from reading this that I thought that maybe you would as well.
World Digestive Health Day is observed every year on May 29th to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining your health. The gut, which includes the stomach and intestines, is home to trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, collectively known as the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome is essential for several vital functions in the body. The good news for you and your gut is you can do five simple things today to get healthier. Here they are:
Manage Your Medications
Certain medications can harm digestive health. For example, antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut, while nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can irritate the digestive tract. If you’re taking medications, talk to your healthcare provider about the potential impact on your digestive health and whether alternative options are available.
Incorporate Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which can help to improve the balance of bacteria in your gut. Some examples of fermented foods include kimchi, kefir, sauerkraut, and miso. These foods can help to improve digestion, boost immune function, and reduce inflammation. In addition, fermentation can break down some of the complex carbohydrates and proteins in these foods, making them easier to digest.
Take a Probiotic Supplement
In addition to incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet, a probiotic supplement can also help improve gut health. Probiotic supplements contain specific strains of beneficial bacteria that can help to improve digestion, boost immune function, and reduce inflammation. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a high-quality supplement.
Try Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is a popular eating pattern that involves alternating periods of fasting with periods of eating. This type of fasting can help improve digestive function by giving your gut a break from constant digestion. During fasting, your body can focus on repair and regeneration, which can help reduce inflammation and promote gut health. Intermittent fasting has also been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and metabolic function, which can benefit overall health.
Practice Yoga
Yoga is a practice that combines physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to promote relaxation and reduce stress. In addition, it has been shown to positively impact digestive health by improving gut motility, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy bowel movements. Try incorporating yoga into your daily routine to support the health of your digestive system.
In conclusion, by incorporating these additional unique strategies into your daily routine, you can revitalize your gut and improve your digestive health.
To learn more about ways to improve your gut health, contact Gastroenterology of Greater Orlando. They are a cutting-edge clinical gastroenterology practice that sets the standard in digestive health care.
