3 Things you can do for your gut health

supporting your gut with lifestyle
  • Ali

The topic of gut health is a major item in the news right now and rghtly so. Our gut health can impact our overall health, our immune system and out mental health. We've probaly all seen or read an article in the last week about things we can purchase to support our gut but what about the everyday actions we can take to help ourselves to feel healthier, happier and gutsy (excuse the pun)!

1. Lower your stress levels

Chronic levels of stress are hard on your whole body, including your gut. We all feel stress in different areas of our body but i'm often approached by cleints whose stress manifests itself in the gut with cramps, bloating, irritability and even IBS symptoms all too common. Different things will work for different people but some ways to lower stress may include meditation, walking, getting a massage, spending time with friends or family, diffusing essential oils, decreasing caffeine intake, laughing, yoga, or having a pet.

What have you tried before? Keep a diary of your stress levels and the actions you take, with outcomes. If you'd like to talk about what works, or doesn't, get in touch.

 

2. Get enough sleep

Not getting enough or sufficient quality of sleep can have serious impacts on our gut health, which can in turn contribute to more sleep issues. Just like with children having a routine can help. Try to regulate your bedtime and create a sleep routine that includes an element of salf care. Switch off blue light from phones, laptops and screens 60 - 120 mins before bedtime, take a warm bath using epsom salts or do some gentle yoga to relax and unwind tired muscles. Prioritizing getting at least 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night can really help.

 

3. Eat slowly and mindfully

How often have you inhaled your lunch without really noticing what you're eating as you read your email or work on a project. Likewise an evening meal in front of the TV can be just as damaging as we sit crunched over mindlessly eating and not stropping until our plate is empty despite how full we are.  Chewing your food thoroughly, slowly and mindfully can help promote full digestion and absorption of nutrients. This may help you reduce digestive discomfort after meals and maintain a healthy gut. Be aware of what's on your plate, the colour, textures and presentation. Think about the feel of the food in your mouth, the soft or hard textures, the level of chewing you need to do to break each element down. Being more mindful with our eating is a major step in the right direction for improved gut health.

Need more help?

If you’re experiencing gut or hormone issues and would like help identifying the root causes and eliminating them please get in touch. I work with clients across the country to create a healthy lifestyle that supports and maintains a healthy gut. For an initial free consultation Tel: 07973 843020 or Email: [email protected]

 

Other resources and blogs that may help

Tired all the time

Should you meditate?

meditation you tube

Meditation

Essential oils and your health

How to sleep better

Are you eating enough protein?