Our top 5 tips for optimal Gut Health
Our guts are one of the most vital organs in our bodies, therefore it’s important that we maintain it’s health and function as best we can! Our gut (or gastrointestinal system) is not only required for the digestion of food and supporting eliminating waste from the body – but has now been shown to influence many other health outcomes. To support some of these essential functions, our top 5 tips for supporting good gut health include:
Ensuring good fibre intake:
Aim to get enough of the two main types of fibre each day - soluble and insoluble fibre. Soluble fibre helps to slow the emptying processes in our stomachs (keeping us fuller), plus can help to lower cholesterol and stabilise blood glucose levels. Aim for fruits, vegetables, oats, barley and legumes. Insoluble fibre helps to keep us regular and maintains the health of the overall gut environment. Aim for wholegrain breads and cereals, nuts, seeds and the skin of fruit and vegetables.
Aim for different types of plants across the week:
Set yourself a challenge and see if you can aim for at least 30 different plant foods per week. The larger the range of plant foods, the better diversity in our good gut bacteria. Aim for a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, spices and legumes.
Water (fluid):
It goes without saying why water is important in our bodies, but when it comes to our gut, water is the key element for making sure its contents are moving through at a timely pace and making waste easy to pass.
Physical activity / movement:
Moving our bodies each day in a way that feels good for us can not only help to keep our movements regular, but has been associated with improved good gut bacteria.
Stress management:
Looking after our mental health is just as important as our physical health when it comes to our guts. Increased stress has been shown to disrupt the microorganisms that live within our gut, impairing some of the process they are involved with. Aim to find ways to relax and unwind, including getting enough sleep!
A big thanks to Emma for this blog post - she is our gut health guru! If you’d like more individualised support in improving your gut health, then feel free to book a session in with Emma here.
