5 Ways To Improve Your Gut Health Without Supplements
Gut health is crucial for overall well-being as it influences every aspect of your body's function. Your gut, now referred to as the "second brain," plays a central role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system support. But its impact extends far beyond just digestion; a balanced gut microbiome is essential for maintaining healthy skin, high energy, regulated mood, and even managing weight. When our gut is in harmony, it supports the proper function of your organs and systems throughout the body, ranging from the heart to the brain. Conversely, an imbalanced gut can lead to a cascade of health issues, affecting everything from energy levels and mental clarity to immune responses and cardiovascular health. Prioritizing gut health is not just about digestive comfort—it's about building a foundation for total wellness and vitality. Here are 5 ways you can support and improve your gut health that don’t involve taking any supplements and can be implemented starting today!
Choose Your Food
Opt for foods that reflect the person you aspire to be. Remember, "you are what you eat." Your emotional relationship with food can affect how it impacts you, so you must also choose how you feel about a food: is it a source of nourishment, a form of punishment, or something you took pride in preparing? It’s also important to recognize what the food represents to you—whether it’s nourishment, addiction, or entertainment. For example - a smoothie might be for nourishment, some popcorn at the movies is for entertainment, but if you eat a whole sleeve of Oreos every night that might be more addictive. Understanding your perspective of the foods you choose to eat can help you make future adjustments that align with your goals.
Chew Your Food
Chewing is the first step in digestion and chewing your food completely helps break down your food into smaller pieces, increases saliva production, aids absorption of nutrients, and increases digestive enzyme production. Chewing also helps portion control as it will take you longer to finish meals and you will be less likely to overeat. Insufficient chewing can result in gas, bloating, constipation, and decreased energy.
Don’t Stress
Eating while stressed or on the go diverts blood flow away from digestion, leading to decreased stomach acid and poor food breakdown. This decrease in stomach acid can result in bacterial/yeast overgrowth and other digestive issues. Practicing breathwork and minimizing distractions during meals can support better digestion and overall gut health
Cherish Your Food
Show gratitude for your meals! Proper nutrition is essential for your body's functions, so we should be thankful for what our food gives us. Take time to savor flavors, admire colors, and enjoy textures. Enjoy meals with loved ones and appreciate the joy and connection that come with shared dining experiences. A positive mindset will shift things energetically and put your body into a more relaxed state which can reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and enhance gut health.
Get that Gut Checked
Test, don’t guess! Annual gut assessments can reveal imbalances affecting your health. Issues like bacterial overgrowth, yeast, parasites, and viruses can cause symptoms such as bloating, cramping, gas, skin problems, brain fog, and weight gain. Consider these useful gut tests:
These tips provide an excellent starting point for your gut healing journey. By practicing consistency and mindful eating, you’ll soon be on the path to feeling your best and regaining your vitality!
