A beginner's guide to gut health
What's the story
Gut health is critical for our well-being, influencing everything from digestion to mood. For newbies, knowing how to keep a healthy gut can be intimidating. However, with some simple and effective steps, you can get started on the path of better gut health. Here are some easy-to-follow tips that can help improve your digestive system and boost your overall wellness without overloading you with jargons.
Tip 1
Increase fiber intake gradually
Fiber is critical for a healthy gut as it promotes digestion and ensures regular bowel movements. Start by including more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. Increase your fiber intake gradually to prevent any digestive issues. Go for at least 25 grams of fiber per day for women and 38 grams per day for men, according to health experts.
Tip 2
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Water also plays a vital role in digestion. It helps break food down so that nutrients can be absorbed effectively. Staying hydrated also prevents constipation by softening stools. Make it a habit to drink at least eight glasses of water daily or more if you're physically active or live in a hot climate.
Tip 3
Incorporate probiotics into your diet
Probiotics are friendly bacteria that promote gut health by maintaining a healthy balance of microbiome in the gut. You can get probiotics from fermented foods such as yogurt or even take supplements if needed. Adding these good bacteria to your diet may enhance digestion and improve immunity.
Tip 4
Manage stress levels effectively
Stress adversely affects gut health by throwing off the balance of bacteria in the intestines, causing problems like bloating or indigestion over time if not handled well. By relaxing (meditation or yoga practice regularly) and getting proper sleep every night, you can ensure that your body systems, including the gastrointestinal tract itself, are working the way they should!