Immune Health

Gut Health – Impact on Health and Tips To Keep It Healthy

Our stomach is the food capital of our body. Whatever we eat, the stomach is responsible for breaking it down and digesting it with the help of the acids and enzymes it creates. The broken-down food is then passed into the small intestine. The stomach has three functions:

1. Store food temporarily
2. Mix and break down food by contraction and relaxation
3. Production of enzymes and other cells for digestion

Ensuring our stomach, or gut health, is important. Any food item or activity that hampers the digestive process can take a toll on our bodies.

Gut Microbiome

There are many microorganisms living in our intestines. Each individual has nearly 200 varieties of bacteria, fungi, and viruses in the digestive tract. These microorganisms together form the microbiome. Some of these microorganisms are harmful to us, but many are beneficial and necessary for a healthy body. Research suggests that a large variety of these organisms may be helpful for diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriatic arthritis.

How does our gut health affect the whole body?

A healthy gut has so many positive impacts on the overall body. Studies conducted in the past have found links between the stomach and the immune system, mental health, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Here are some of the ways our gut health affects the body:

• Good Bacteria: Present in the gut microbiome, they not only help with digestion but they also keep bad bacteria in check. Good bacteria maintain the equilibrium by multiplying so fast that bad bacteria do not stand a chance of growing simply because of a lack of space.
• Unhealthy Balance: A high presence of bad bacteria could lead to Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome.
• Gut Bacteria and the Heart: Gut bacteria may be a part of the link between cholesterol and heart disease. When we consume red meat or eggs, the bacteria create a chemical that the liver turns into trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO which may contribute to cholesterol buildup.
• Gut Bacteria and the Kidneys: Too much TMAO is believed to be one of the causes of chronic kidney disease.
• Gut Bacteria and Brain: Studies have shown that gut bacteria can impact emotions and how the brain processes information received from the senses.
• Gut Bacteria and Obesity: An unhealthy balance in the gut may cause the brain to receive crossed signals about the stomach being empty or full. It can affect the pituitary gland, which makes hormones for the appetite.

Signs of an unhealthy gut

There are ways that the body alerts you to the signs of an unhealthy gut - 

• Upset Stomach: Stomach problems such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn are probably the biggest red flags of an unhealthy gut.
• Unplanned Weight Changes: Changes in your weight without changing your diet or exercise pattern.
• Sleep disturbances: Improper sleep patterns and sleep issues.
• Skin irritation: Skin conditions such as psoriasis have been linked to gut health.
• Autoimmune conditions: Studies have found that the gut plays a big role in the immune system and may impair its function.
• Food intolerance: Bad bacteria or poor-quality bacteria may cause food intolerances.

Gut Health Hacks

Here are some ways to maintain good gut health:

1. Lower stress: Studies prove that high levels of stress affect the whole body. There are proven steps that you can take to reduce stress in your life. Things such as meditating, going for a walk, getting a massage, and spending time with family and friends limiting your intake of alcohol are all proven stress-busters.
2. Get enough sleep: Getting at least 6-8 hours of sleep every day is important for overall health and has been shown to be vital for optimal gut health. 
3. Eat Slowly: Chewing your food properly and slowly may reduce the chances of diabetes, obesity, and digestive discomfort.
4. Stay hydrated: Studies show that people who drink plenty of water have fewer chances of developing gastrointestinal infections. Hydration also prevents constipation.
5. Prebiotics and Probiotics: What a great team! Probiotics are the good bacteria needed for gut health, and Prebiotics promote their growth. Together they work to improve gut health. 
6. Exercise: Maintaining a healthy weight is a great way to keep your gut health in check.

Product Recommendations

Here are some products recommendations from HPFY to keep yourself fit and healthy:

1. TheraBand Mini Ball

Ideal for use at home or exercise facility, this mini ball is designed to strengthen the core muscles at the back and abdomen. Suitable for all age groups, its non-slip design supports several exercises focused on strengthening the core. 

2. Norco Shoulder Pulley

This pre-assembled and ready-to-use shoulder pulley increases shoulder strength and range of motion. It can be used while sitting, standing up, or lying down. The handles are ergonomically designed for comfort.

3. Body Sport Training Rope

If you are looking to increase overall strength and endurance, this training rope is a perfect tool to add to your exercise regimen. Designed to increase power, stamina, and strength, this rope engages the hands, arms, shoulders, back, core, and legs for a full-body workout. It can be used indoors and outdoors.

The gut is a complex organ and an unhealthy gut can truly affect the whole body. Maintaining good gut health should be a priority as it keeps the body running efficiently. Avoiding troublesome foods, limiting alcohol intake, and exercising regularly are ways to keep your gut healthy.

 

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