Dietitian Richmond
GUT HEALTH
One of the most exhilarating and ground-breaking topics in health right now is gut health, in particular the focus has been on the bacteria that live in our digestive tract, also known as our gut microbiome, which helps us break down the food we eat and absorb its nutrients.
Recent research has shown that bacteria in our gut have an incredible impact on everything from fat loss and inflammation levels, to irritable bowel and food intolerance, to perhaps even our susceptibility to depression and anxiety.
Fat Loss: gut bacteria influence our insulin sensitivity, which controls the way our bodies respond to carbohydrates, specifically how likely it is to turn them into fat. So what can we do in order to manipulate our microbiome into helping us burn more fat? Diversity.
Research has shown that a decrease in gut diversity is also a really important marker of inflammation, which is linked to obesity, heart disease, arthritis, and even depression.
Furthermore, research is showing the mind can affect the gut, and the gut can affect the mind thus be the result of our depression and anxiety.
What you can do to determine if you have a problem with your gut:
- Focus on your bowel movements and other symptoms:
That means whether you normally have three bowel movements daily or one every alternative day, a change from your individual baseline could mean there’s something wrong. Other signs of gut issues are increased bloating, heartburn, abdominal cramping, flatulence and diarrhoea/constipation.
Do you experience any of the following? If so, you may have a problem with your gut.
- Seek help from a dietitian to help better your gut health
It’s kind of crazy that our gut bacteria can have such a significant impact on our health, but it’s also important that we start thinking more about the gut microbiome and the role it can play in managing health issues.
Luckily, tending to your gut bugs doesn’t have to be complicated: Eat fermented foods, sleep more, eat more fibre, and maintain a healthy weight. Your belly and your brain will thank you.
If you think, you need some help with improving your gut health and would like to see our Richmond Dietitian Dalija please call to book on (03) 9428 6200 or book online to for a healthier and happier gut. For more information visit Melbourne Health Co.