Digestive health is something that many people take for granted. The majority of our immune system is based on the gut, so it is especially important to make sure that it your intestines and digestive system are functioning properly. Stress, poor diet, certain drugs and aging can all affect the intestines and lead to discomforts and many illnesses. Gut flora is very important to overall health and well-being. By making sure to have a balance of good bacteria will help maintain good digestion.
Reoccurring cycles of antibiotics, birth control pills or other long-term meditations can damage the gut. Toxic substances in food, drink and other environmental influences also damage its composition. Good digestive health not only contributes to healthy skin, proper kidney function, but can act as a preventative for degenerative diseases, such as Multiple Sclerosis. Luckily, there are many different things that can be done to improve digestive health.
1. Nutrition
Many people have an understanding of how diet and nutrition affects the digestive system, but still continue to eat poor quality foods. Excessive sugar, refined carbs, fried foods and excessive alcohol consumption can all cause problems. Food compounds such as gluten, lectin, lactose and fructose can cause allergy symptoms in many people causing symptoms of respiratory problems, immune system T-cell response, digestive problems or even addictive like symptoms. Increasing the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables and eliminating overcooked and processed foods will greatly help to improve gut health.
2. Exercise
Exercise is an important part of proper digestive health, and yet little people realize the strong connection. Exercise is necessary in order for the body to digest properly, it balances blood sugar and hormone production, improves liver function and boosts the immune system. 30 minutes a day of moderate exercise is essential to overall health and wellness.
3. Probiotics
Probiotics are live organisms that increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system and help to maintain a healthy balance in the intestines. Probiotics should be consumed daily as part of a healthy eating plan. The bacteria helps to support health by supporting immune function, enhancing the absorption of nutrients, and protecting against leaky gut syndrome. Leaky gut allows pathogens to penetrate the gut wall, which causes havoc on the body. Probiotics can be found either in supplement form or in real fermented foods, which can be made very easily and cost effectively. Kombucha, Kefir, Sauerkraut and yogurt are all examples of delicious probiotic foods and drinks that can be costly at health food stores, but easily made at home for pennies.
Incorporating these recommendations into your life will begin to heal your body for the better. Eliminating processed foods and including more fresh fruits and vegetables will reduce the number of toxins that are entering the system, while exercise will work to remove the toxins, stimulate the lymphatic system and cleanse the blood. Probiotic rich food and drinks help to promote healing and should be consumed daily.
