What is Gut Health?

Your gut is your gastrointestinal system and includes your stomach, intestines and colon. It digests and absorbs nutrients from food and excretes waste. Scientists have discovered that the trillions of bacteria in our gastrointestinal tract don’t just carry out these functions - they help our body maintain balance and stay healthy and well. This collection of bacteria and other microorganisms are called the gut microbiome - essentially the guts ecosystem.

Each of us have a unique microbiome that influences our general health:

1. It plays a role in regulating our immune system. Changes in gut bacteria may lead to autoimmune disorders and raised levels of inflammation.

2. It may affect brain function. Gut cells and the microbiome produce neurotransmitters like serotonin which may influence your mood.

3. Its crucial for the digestion and utilisation of nutrients which are important producers of energy, also playing a role in regulating our metabolism and mood

   
   

There are a number of signs of an unhealthy gut which can include digestive issues, fatigue, varying moods, increased bouts of illness, unintentional weight changes and skin irritation.

Ways to improve your gut health:

• Reduce stress levels

• Limit alcohol intake

• Keep active

• Eat a high fibre diet

• Reduce sugar intake

• Eat a variety of fruit and vegetables

• Limit ultra-processed foods

• Drink plenty of water

• Eat fermented foods

• Get sufficient sleep

There are no miracle cures for good gut health. You can improve your gut health by taking steps to improve your overall general health through eating well, getting enough sleep and managing your stress levels.