What Is a Healthy Gut

and Why Does It Matter?

(Photo credit: mikebaird)

More and more attention is being paid to the digestive system. We know that we feel better when our stomachs are happy. Issues like gas, bloating, constipation and diarrhea are not fun to deal with. In fact, they have a significant effect on mood and mindset.

However, scientists are discovering that digestive or gut health has more of an impact on overall health than previously thought. In fact, digestive problems have been linked to:

• Autoimmune disease
• Arthritis
• Allergies
• Skin rashes and acne
• Chronic fatigue
• Mood disorders
• Autism
• Dementia
• Diabetes
• And even cancer

The more they learn about the bacteria in your digestive tract, the more they discover just how vital it is to optimal health. In fact, according to scientists, there are 500 species of bacteria in your gut. They average a whopping total weight of around three pounds. 

This vast collection of bacteria helps digest the food you eat. They regulate your hormones, help eliminate toxins from your body and they even produce vitamins and other nutrients that support good health and a strong immune system. If this balance of bacteria becomes tipped, meaning there’s more bad than good, then it can cause serious health problems. 

Chances are that you’ve also suffered from the occasional bout of digestive discomfort. You may have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, acid reflux, or even Crohn’s or colitis. You’re not alone – more than 100 million Americans have digestive problems. 

In fact, there are more than 200 over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for digestive disorders. Unfortunately, many of these remedies cause more problems than they solve. They can interfere with the proper functioning of your digestive system and worsen the problem or create new issues.  

Taking steps to achieve good gut health helps you prevent or reduce your risk of developing gastrointestinal problems or illness. Before you can achieve good gut health, though, it’s important to have a basic understanding of how your digestive system works.   Stay Tuned!