Gut health is a vital indicator of one’s overall health. The micro and macronutrients we require for our well-being and development come from the food we eat. Breaking down the food into its basic form and ensuring those nutrients are adequately assimilated by the body requires a healthy digestive system, i.e., a healthy gut. When gut health is compromised, we can face significant health issues. There are around 40 trillion bacteria in our body, most of which are in our intestines. Collectively they are known as your gut bacteria, and they are essential for your health. Here are some ways to improve your gut bacteria.
Chew your food
Our hectic routine life often leads us to swallow food without adequately chewing it. Chewing food properly releases the salivary enzymes that help digestion.
Eat healthily
We’ve all heard about healthy eating countless times, but yet some of us still indulge in junk food a bit too often. Opt for fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and stay hydrated instead. Dairy products add healthy bacteria to your gut. Whole grains, fruits, and veggies contain fiber, which is what your gut bacteria feed on. Avoid processed foods as they contain preservation chemicals that harm gut health.
Cook with spices
Spices contain powerful anti-bacterial chemicals. Garlic, ginger, turmeric, pepper, cumin seeds are potent against harmful bacteria present in the gut.
Stay hydrated
Proper digestion requires water for the effective absorption of nutrients by the gut.
Exercise regularly
Regular workouts consisting of at least half an hour every day helps in digestion as it increases peristalsis.
Sleep
You should stick to a daily sleep routine of at least 8 to 9 hours. Irregular sleeping patterns cause intestinal bacteria to plummet and accentuates inflammation of the gut.
No stress
Stress is a significant reason for gut problems. The more you are stressed, the more hydrochloric acid your stomach produces, causing pain. Opt for yoga classes to reduce your stress and anxiety levels.
Eat dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is a very good source of polyphenols. This molecule is not easily digested and hence remains in the gut for a longer time to undergo fermentation, releasing its anti-inflammatory properties for a healthy gut.
Keep good oral hygiene
Skipping on your daily recommended brushing allows harmful bacteria to flourish in your mouth. Those bacteria can easily access your gut as they follow the path of your digestive tract which begins at your mouth.
Sticking to those healthy habits will help you maintain and improve your gut health in the long term.
