4 Ways to Drastically Improve Gut Health

Though you might be new to “tuning into your gut”, the link between your digestive system and your overall health is not a new one. On the contrary, digestive health has long been at the center of natural healing for centuries, used in both Indian Ayurvedic practices and traditional Chinese medicine. But what is new is the growing interest from Western medicine. And although most traditional MD’s won’t ask you about your kefir, a growing number are acknowledging that gut health is truly crucial in both physical and mental wellness.

Dr. N. Campbell-McBride has spearheaded this effort in many regards, establishing something called GAPS, or Gut and Psychology Syndrome. She says conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, and depression can all be linked to poor gut health. She’s even created a diet to cure these conditions through proper digestive regulation.

So, whether you are a follower of Dr. Campbell-McBride or new to the gut-health phenomena, there are some very simple things you can to do improve your gut health. And since gut health is said to be responsible for 80% of our immunity, you’ll definitely want to take some time to brush up on this subject.

Boosting Gut Health Naturally with these 4 Tips

• 1. Increase “Good” Gut Bacteria – Our digestive system is filled with living organisms crucial to our health. A poor diet or a round of antibiotics can throw this balance off, leading to decreased “good” bacteria, important for proper digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and more. You can easily increase good bacteria in the gut by eating fermented foods rich in probiotics like kefir, live yogurt cultures, and sauerkraut.
• 2. Eat the Right Fiber – Fiber is important for moving things through your body and for regulating your digestion. But not all fiber is equal. Processed grains may contain fiber, but they can wreak havoc on your health. Try to ingest fiber from natural plant sources. Fruit, vegetables, and beans are the best sources for healthy fiber that will keep your gut health in check.
• 3. Stop the Antibiotic Overload – Antibiotics are designed to eliminate bacteria that cause infections. But in the process, they eliminate all bacteria – the good and the bad – leading to a serious imbalance and even making you prone to tougher, drug-resistant strains of infections. Get off the antibiotic cycle by looking for natural alternatives when you are sick. Even ear infections and other commonly antibiotic-treated illnesses can successfully be beaten without help from Big Pharma. Here are 5 natural antibiotic solutions.
• 4. Get Active – Repeated studies have shown a link between regular exercise and boosted gut health. So, get active. Whether you run for fun or join a gym, try to exercise each and every day. Not only will this make you physically healthier, but it can also help reduce stress and improve your mood.

There are countless resources out there for gut-healthy recipes and diet plans. Do your research before ascribing to any of them. But remember, a healthy gut equals a healthy, and happier you.

Additional Sources:

MedicalXpress.com

LiveScience

Care2