Did you know over 70 million Americans suffer from gut-related disease? Many lifestyle factors, such as high-stress levels and processed foods can make it worse. This leads to negative effects on other aspects of the body such as the immune system, brain, hormone levels, etc. Here are 5 of the most effective ways to improve gut health:

 1. Taking A Daily Probiotic

Probiotics are considered a “good” bacterium and have many benefits for the gut. Taking a daily probiotic helps improve bloating, clear up your skin, and prevent sickness. I started consistently taking probiotics last year and it has worked wonders on my energy levels, digestive issues, and skin. When searching for the right probiotic supplement, it’s important to find a high-quality one. My favorite brand is ‘NaturesPlus’ and you can find it on Amazon.

2. Incorporating More Whole Nutrient Foods into Your Diet

Processed foods and refined added sugars are harsh on the good gut bacteria. Try incorporating more whole foods such as salads, fermented vegetables, and whole grains in your diet for a happier gut. My favorite “gut happy” foods include bone broth, bananas, oats, and sauerkraut.

3. Managing Stress and Sleep

Managing both your stress and sleep is fundamental to your gut. It is important to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night and keep your stress at a minimum. You can improve in both areas by prioritizing daily movement and meditation.

4. Regular Exercise

As most people know, consistent exercise is important for overall health. When it comes to gut health, getting at least one hour of exercise a day is important for the digestive system. Something as simple as walking after finishing meals has amazing benefits for the gut.

5. Drinking Plenty of Water

Last but not least, staying hydrated throughout the day is crucial. It helps the gut break down the foods you eat, aiding in digestion. The gut can absorb more nutrients when hydrated. Drinking around a gallon of water a day is ideal.

As someone who has struggled with gut health and has tried all the tricks in the book, these top five tips have been the most helpful in my gut health journey.

Be well, Auburn.