Your gut is much more important to your overall health than you might think. When your gut is out of balance, everything else tends to be out of balance as well. Your gut is telling you something when it doesn’t feel good, including digestive issues, medical conditions, or food aversions. If you are having gut health issues, here are some natural ways to improve it.
Eat More Fiber
A key step to improving your gut health naturally is to increase your intake of dietary fiber. This nutrient is like fuel for your gut’s beneficial bacteria. Foods that are high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. By making these foods a regular part of your diet, you’re giving your gut’s beneficial bacteria the nutrients they need to thrive.
Eat Prebiotics and Probiotics
Probiotics are good bacteria that can help keep your gut healthy. You will find probiotics in foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kefir, as well as kimchi. These are known as fermented foods. You also want to balance it out with prebiotics, which are garlic, onions, and bananas.
Make Sure You Drink Enough Water
Drinking plenty of water is beneficial for your gut health. Hydration helps the gut to move and process food, which can help prevent constipation and keep your digestive system running smoothly. Find ways to drink more water throughout the day.
Limit Processed Foods
The bacteria in your gut can also be adversely affected when you eat too many overly-processed foods. This doesn’t mean you have to eat a completely clean diet, but just try to minimize the number of packages and frozen foods you eat, opting for fresh and homemade whenever possible.
Try to Manage Stress
Stress can affect your entire body, including your gut. Some ways to manage stress include meditating, exercising, getting enough sleep, and maintaining social connections. Find the stress-reducing activities that work best for you and make them a regular part of your routine.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity promotes a healthy digestive system by helping food move through it more effectively. This can help prevent constipation and promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Even something as simple as going for a walk or doing yoga can help.
When you pay close attention to your gut, you give yourself the best chance at feeling better overall. If none of these remedies seem to help you, that is when you know it is time to visit your doctor.