Gut Health and Overall Health is a Two-Way Street
Did you know that our gut communicates far and wide throughout our body, so much that some scientists have labeled it as our “second brain”?
Keeping the bacteria in our microbiome balanced contributes to both our mental and physical wellness. The incredible complexity of our gut plays a substantial role in our digestion, sleep cycles, energy levels, appetite and mood. Therefore, when it comes to our well-being, gut health and overall health is a two-way street!
In order to help you reach an overall state of wellness and for ideas on how to support gut health, check out the simple healthy habits that you can incorporate into your everyday routine below!
- Take a daily refrigerated probiotic. Probiotics are full of the “good” live bacteria cells that keep your gut healthy. Since these live cells naturally die off at a faster rate when kept in warm or humid conditions, it’s important to opt for a refrigerated probiotic, like Florajen, for maximum, sustained potency. A daily refrigerated probiotic can help to boost your immune system, keep your microbiome in balance, provide relief for digestive discomfort and support vaginal health.
- Make hydration fun with infused water. Drinking plenty of water has been shown to have a positive effect on the mucosal lining of the intestines, as well as on the balance of good bacteria in the gut. To give your water consumption an upgrade, try infusing with fruits and herbs – like lemon, cucumber, mint, basil or ginger – to further support digestion and fight inflammation.
- Be mindful of your diet. Fruit, vegetables, legumes and fermented foods are all your friends when it comes to gut health! Foods that are high in fiber help to feed and keep the “good” bacteria in your gut thriving, while fermented foods are rich in Lactobacilli, a type of bacteria that benefits your digestive and vaginal health.
- Get better sleep. Did you know that just a tiny amount of sleep loss can quickly alter the composition of your gut microbiome? To keep your body balanced, try getting into a consistent bedtime routine. Some healthy habits include avoiding screens before bed, eating lighter meals at night, limiting caffeine intake during the afternoon, and staying away from sugary foods before you turn down.
- Pay attention to your mental health. Stress changes the speed at which food physically moves through your digestive tract and can intensify contractions of your digestive organs. In order to better control your stress levels and keep your digestive system running smoothly, consider trying out a 30-minute guided meditation or participating in a yoga practice.
