5 Ways To Support Your Gut with Holistic Nutrition

Feeling tired? Feeling irritable? Feeling gassy? Feeling like something is up but you can't quite tell what it is? It may be your gut!

Maintaining a healthy gut is crucial for overall well-being. I work from the persecutive that the gut is the seat of health. Almost everything has a connection to your digestive system. A balanced and nourished gut can improve digestion, boost immunity, enhance mental health, and even promote weight management. While there are various approaches to gut health, adopting a holistic nutrition approach can provide long-term benefits. Here are five effective ways to support your gut with food.

Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. This is general advice when it comes to gut health. Every body is different - those with particular digestive ailments should consult a practitioner.

1. Eat a Fibre-Rich Diet: Including an ample amount of fibre in your diet is essential for gut health. Fibre acts as a prebiotic, providing nourishment to the beneficial bacteria in your gut. It aids in regular bowel movements, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Incorporate whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds into your meals to increase your fibre intake. I love sneaking in psyllium husk and hemp seeds where I can - an easy way to up fibre!

2. Consume Fermented Foods: Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut. Regularly consuming fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can help restore and maintain a balanced gut microbiome. There are more fermented foods than you think - pickles and olives are fermented foods that don't get enough love! These probiotics aid in digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and may strengthen the immune system.

3. Crowd Out Processed Foods and Artificial Sugar: Processed foods and excessive sugar intake can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut, leading to inflammation and digestive issues. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods instead, as they are rich in essential nutrients and support a healthy gut. Let this not be a reason for you to fear sugar - we need naturally occurring, untampered with sugars (carbohydrates) to support muscle recovery, muscle growth, healing in the body and as a source of fuel. I challenge you to start crowding out sugary snacks, sodas, and processed foods, and focus on nourishing your body with whole foods.

4. Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is vital for maintaining a healthy gut. Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day helps to soften stools, may prevent constipation, and support the overall digestive process. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily and consider incorporating herbal teas and infused water for added hydration and gut support. Hot tip: add a pinch of Himalayan sea salt to your water to up absorption.

5. Manage Stress Levels: Stress can negatively impact gut health by disrupting the balance of bacteria and impairing digestion. Incorporating stress management techniques into your daily routine, such as meditation, journalling, talk therapy, deep belly breathing, yoga, and/or regular physical activity, can help reduce stress levels and support a healthy gut. Additionally, getting enough sleep is crucial for gut health, as it allows your body to repair and restore itself.

Supporting your gut via a holistic, proactive approach and increase your overall well-being. By incorporating fibre-rich foods, fermented foods, and reducing processed foods and sugar, you can nourish your gut and promote a healthy gut microbiome. Staying hydrated and managing stress levels are equally important for maintaining optimal gut health. Remember, a healthy gut is the foundation for a healthy body and mind.

Want to learn more about how you can support your gut and overall health with a plan that is specifically made for you? Let's work together.