What's Gut Got to Do With It?

• By Beth Meirav
• My Blog

What is living inside you?  We are not talking about aliens of course, but the 300 to 500 different microorganisms that are living in your digestive track. Some are harmful of course, but some are incredibly beneficial. The gut microbiome is linked to our health in more ways than you can imagine. Our gut health impacts our mood, skin, autoimmune diseases, mental health, endocrine system (hormones) and immune system. The gut being out of whack (to put it simply) is even linked to certain cancers. So basically, I am trying to say, keeping the gut healthy is ESSENTIAL.

Does this sound like you...upset stomach (heartburn, gas, bloat, constipation, diarrhea), changes to your weight, always sleepy, perhaps some skin issues (eczema, breakouts), autoimmune disease?

Start today to make some changes and you will see how well your body responds.

1.Change your diet - I am a big fan of eating a Mediterranean-style diet. We are talking about lean proteins, fresh fruits and veggies, good fats (nuts, avocados, seeds), whole grains (quinoa is a superfood!). Foods high in fiber will make a huge impact in keeping your gut healthy. I am happy to help you get to a healthy weight and set you up for success!

2.Hydration is key! I know I preach about drinking water quite often, but it's definitely a must in keeping your gut healthy. It will help balance the good bacteria in the gut. Start your day with a glass of room temperature water and your body will thank you.?

3.Eat slowly - Are you in a race?  Are you shoving down your food because you feel you have to and perhaps didn't even taste it?  Chewing your food completely and eating slowly will help your body absorb the nutients it needs.  This can help reduce the shall we say, less than pleasant digestive issues you may have.  Plus it will maintain that healthy gut!

4.Check for food sensitivities - all of those unfortunate digestive issues I mentioned early (think bloat, gas, cramping, nausea...) plus migraines, joint pain, insomnia, anxiety...the list goes on.  We can identify the foods that are causing these challenges and ELIMINATE them.  This will be hugely impactful to your gut health and overall well-being.  I do this very simple test in the office.

5. Take a probiotic - Get one that is refridgerated (they tend to be higher quality).  You are looking for live good bacteria to support your healthy gut.