What the Gut!

The term ‘gut’ may have gotten a bad rep as a sagging pouch in the stomach region.You may even be wondering why does the gut matter so much? Whether you have abs or latter, the gut is a powerful force. It’s not so much what the gut looks like on the outside but more so what the function of the gut microbiome does on the inside and the crucial role it plays in ensuring the whole body is functioning.

Think of the gut microbiome as a pocket. Inside the large intestines, you will find this pocket where trillions of bacteria, fungi, and viruses, some good and some bad (known as gut flora). The harmful bacteria are being fought off to prevent ingested toxins, parasites, and pathogenic bacteria “bugs” from causing sickness or disease. This disease fighter also plays a vital role in the communication center, nervous and immune systems, digestive tract, and mental health.

Yes, you read that correctly, even mental health. Let me fill you in on a lesser-known secret about the gut. Researchers and medical experts call it our second brain. According to the  Cleveland Clinic, the “second brain” in our gut, in communication with the brain in our head, plays a crucial role in specific diseases in our bodies and our overall mental health. Since the gut is connected to the nervous system and neurotransmitters are linked to anxiety and stress, their research further stated that anxiety and stress are psychological concerns. We know that gastrointestinal (GI) problems can create anxiety and stress. We also know that anxiety and stress can make GI problems worse. This is because chemicals pass information from the brain to the gut, a cross-communication between the brain and digestive system.

The gut can be linked to understanding the root causes of diseases. For example, digestive disease is prevalent, affecting 60 million to 70 million people, according to the National Institute of Health. Because of this, you can find the root cause of diseases linked to problems in the gut, such as diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, chronic heart, kidney, and liver diseases, and specific cancers, and is even linked to autism, and more diseases, according to research funded by the National Library of Medicine.

There are ways to promote a healthy gut through our dietary consumption. It all starts within what you put in and directly results in what you get out. This can be said for many different matters, especially our bodies. It’s best to nourish our body with nutrients that cultivate a healthy functioning system. The best way to do that is by paying close attention to the food we eat and put into our bodies. There’s a saying, ‘Food is the best medicine,’ so I have confounded a list of foods and liquids that can be consumed to improve your health.

Yogurt. Cultures in yogurt are rich in microbiotics, which keep the gut micronome healthy. Not all yogurts are equal, so read the label and pick the ones that say active and live cultures in the ingredients.

Ginger. Add this spice to your life! Ginger’s numerous anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties reap great benefits for immune and digestive health. Whether you’re drinking it in tea or adding ground ginger to add flavor to your water, it is an excellent stimulant in relieving stomach aches and feelings of nausea.

  Apple Cider Vinegar. The taste of fermented apple juice contains good bacteria (natural probiotics), which help with the immune system, gut health, and antioxidants that can prevent cell damage. There are many brands of ACV, but Braggs with Mother is highly recommendable.  Beware, apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, and too much can erode tooth enamel.

Beets. This root vegetable is high in fiber (helps you go to the bathroom) and promotes good gut bacteria growth. Healthy bacteria in the digestive system help fight pathogenic toxins and diseases and boosts your immune health. If you’re up for a temporary red dye to your lips, eat it raw, or you can add it to your smoothie.