With gut health becoming a focus in health and wellness circles, many people have questions about its significance and ways to maintain it. Your gut health is intricately linked to various facets of your overall health, including your immune function, metabolism, and even your mental well-being.
The trillions of microbes that reside in your gut, also known as your gut microbiota, interact with your diet and lifestyle to influence these health outcomes.
Here are the answers to six commonly asked questions about gut health:
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Why is gut health important?
Gut health is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination. It also plays a pivotal role in our immune system function and mental health, and can even influence chronic disease risk.
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What are probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for our health, especially our digestive system. While the term 'bacteria' often brings to mind harmful microorganisms, our bodies are home to a myriad of bacteria, both good and bad. Probiotics are the "good" or "friendly" bacteria that help keep our gut healthy.
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What foods are good for gut health?
Foods rich in fibre such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, as well as fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, are beneficial for gut health. Including a supplement like Probio7 Advanced, packed with 10 billion bacteria from nine strains, can help optimise gut health.
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How does gut health impact mental health?
Recent studies show a connection between gut health and mental health. This connection, often referred to as the "gut-brain axis," is due to the gut microbiota's influence on brain chemistry. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut microbiota, can potentially lead to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
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What are signs of an unhealthy gut?
Some common signs of an unhealthy gut include upset stomach, a high-sugar diet, unintentional weight changes, sleep disturbances or constant fatigue, skin irritation, and food intolerances.
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How can I improve my gut health?
You can improve your gut health by eating a diverse range of foods, especially those high in fibre and fermented foods. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and reducing stress levels also contribute to a healthier gut. Furthermore, incorporating probiotics and prebiotics can support gut health by enhancing the diversity and number of beneficial bacteria in your gut.
Understanding and caring for your gut health is an ongoing process. As research progresses, we're learning more about the profound ways our gut health influences our overall health.
By taking steps to improve your gut health, such as adjusting your diet and lifestyle, you're investing in your long-term health and well-being.
