Discussions around “gut health” are growing, with more people beginning to understand the importance of a healthy gut. Documentaries and articles are highlighting this aspect of our health and knowledge is spreading, but for some it may still seem a bit overwhelming. The quickest result of a healthy gut is a healthy, regular toilet habit, but that is certainly only the first of many benefits. From a stronger immune system, to improved mental health, better weight management, and even clearer skin, getting your gut healthy is a win-win.
So – what IS a healthy gut? What are the signs of a healthy gut? What is an UNhealthy gut? Bloating, gas, constipation or loose stools, and food sensitivities are all signs of an unhealthy gut. A healthy gut is filled with the correct ratio of good bacteria that breaks down the food into its individual nutrients for your body to take in. Your gut microbiome needs pre and probiotics to function correctly, and these both exist naturally within your gut. But what we consume, from foods and drinks, to medication and even cosmetics can all alter our gut microbiome. When the balance of these microbes is disrupted, it can lead to discomfort and chronic inflammation. Long-term, chronic inflammation can contribute to various serious health issues such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. By addressing gut health, we can improve physical and mental well-being.
Most modern diets are deficient in fibre. Fibre is what feeds the good bacteria, and bulks up the waste products from your gut to result in happy, healthy toilet habits – no constipation or loose bowel movements. An easy way to get more helpful fibre into your system is adding the newly launched Cool Stool™ to your diet. Cool Stool™ is a tasty 100% raw, high-fibre, and super seed mix scientifically formulated to boost general gut health. Adding it to your morning yogurt, oats, or smoothie daily is a great way to get relief from constipation, bloating, IBS, and reflux. It can even be added to soups and baked in healthy muffins for a winter warmer option (a great option across South Africa at the moment!)
Cool Stool™’s Tips to Start Your Gut Health Journey:
- Increase Fibre Intake– Find the right balance of super seeds and nuts, and incorporate a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes into your diet. This can make a big difference in improving gut health.
- Stay Hydrated– Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support digestion and prevent constipation. Proper hydration helps maintain the mucosal lining of the intestines, which is crucial for a healthy gut barrier.
- Manage Stress– Chronic stress can negatively impact gut health. Find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature. Daily Exercise- Exercise can help maintain a healthy gut in several ways. Firstly, it promotes gut motility, which means it helps move food through the digestive tract more efficiently, reducing the risk of constipation and other digestive issues. Secondly, regular exercise has been linked to a more diverse and balanced gut microbiota, which is crucial for overall gut health. Lastly, exercise can help reduce inflammation in the gut, leading to a healthier and more resilient digestive system. We recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each day.
- Get Adequate Sleep– Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep deprivation can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and impair digestion. Establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can help improve sleep quality.
As your gut health improves, so too does digestion and therefore your body can better assimilate the nutrients you take in, as well as process the toxins, which results in a stronger immune system. This leads to further benefits of a healthy gut such as improved mental health via the gut-brain axis, clearer skin, and better weight management.
However, if a complete lifestyle and diet overhaul seems too overwhelming, making easy changes one at a time is a good first step. Simply by adding Cool Stool™ daily to your diet you will soon see good results, and with these improvements, it will be easier to take the next step in your good gut health journey. For more information on Cool Stool™ and to download their free ‘Gut Health Guide’ which includes tips, recipes and shopping lists for a healthy gut, visit https://www.coolstool.co.za
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