Gut health has become somewhat of a buzz word over the last few years and for good reason. The gut lays the foundation of our health and wellbeing! It influences digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function and impacts our mood.
Did you know:
- Our gut bacteria help mediate our immune function. Our gut houses the bulk of our immune system, as much as 80%! In fact, our guts contain more immune cells than anywhere else in the body.
- 90% of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gut. Serotonin is our feel-good hormone that makes us feel happy. We are beginning to realize that the health of our guts and the eco-system of bacteria that live in our guts have a direct effect on depression.
- The bacteria in our large intestine play an important role in producing vitamin B12, which is then absorbed through the gut lining.
- There is a communication network that runs between your gut and your brain. This gut-brain connection is not only physically connected by the vagus nerve, but also connected biochemically.
What are factors in today’s diet and lifestyle that impact our gut health?
There are several different things we may do or eat each day that have an impact on our gut health. Especially the following:
- Frequent antibiotic use
- Alcohol consumption
- High sugar consumption
- Stress
- Diet low in fiber, fruits and vegetables
- Diet low in fermented foods
- Diet high in processed foods
- Gastric infections
