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Gut health refers to the equilibrium of microorganisms in the digestive tract. Physical and mental health, immunity, and other benefits depend on maintaining the appropriate balance of these bacteria in the gut. These trillions of bacteria, yeasts, and viruses are also known as the "gut microbiome" or "gut flora."
Many bacteria are advantageous to human health, and some are even required. Others may be harmful, particularly if they spread widely.
We have probably heard the old saying "You are what you eat" which is rather accurate when we consider that our gut health has a far-reaching impact on our entire physical health, immunity, risk for chronic illnesses, mental health, and more. But how are those links formed between our stomach and the rest of our body, and what exactly does gut health mean? Let's get started.
What is Gut Health?
The main component of the digestive system is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (also known as the digestive tract). The oesophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine are all related hollow organs that travel from mouth to anus as a lengthy tube. When individuals eat or drink something, their body converts it into nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and so on) as it passes through the digestive tract.
Those nutrients are subsequently used as energy for the different biological cycles and functions in the body. To survive, one must absorb nutrients. When those nutrients are broken down, the bacteria that live in the small and large intestines get to work converting them into energy. Thus, gut health refers to the overall health of the digestive system as well as the health of the bacteria that live in it.
Visit a gastroenterology hospital in Vijayawada if you need treatment and care for gut issues.
How Gut Microbiome is Related to Gut Health?
The term "gut microbiome" refers to the microorganisms that live in the intestine. Each individual's digestive tract contains roughly 200 distinct types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Some bacteria are hazardous to our health, while many are extremely beneficial, if not essential, to a healthy body. According to research, having a diverse bacterial population in the gut may help minimise the risk of diseases such as diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriatic arthritis.
How Does the Gut Microbiome Affect Gut Health?
Medical study is increasingly focusing on the tremendous complexity of the gut and its significance to our general health. Over the past few decades, several studies have found connections between gut health and:
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Immune system
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Mental health
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Autoimmune diseases
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Endocrine disorders
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Gastrointestinal disorders
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Cardiovascular disease
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Cancer
A higher level of diversity in gut bacteria may be connected with better health. While the study is ongoing, it becomes obvious that gut health affects many aspects of an individual’s health and well-being.
Signs of an Unhealthy Gut
Day-to-day modern life may affect the gut microbiome including:
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Increased level of stress.
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Very less sleep.
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More intake of western diet having high processed and sugar content food.
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Intake of antibiotics.
This, in turn, may have an impact on other elements of the individual’s health, such as:
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Immune mechanism
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Hormonal levels
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Weight
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Occurrence of any disease.
Some of the common symptoms of reduced gut health include:
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An upset stomach involves the symptoms such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, and heartburn.
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High sugar diet.
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Unintentional weight change.
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Fatigue and sleep disturbance.
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Skin irritation.
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Autoimmune conditions.
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Food intolerances.
Things Recommended for Improving the Gut Health
One might be able to enhance their gut health by making lifestyle and dietary adjustments. The following should be taken into consideration:
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Lowering the stress level.
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Getting enough sleep.
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Eating slowly while chewing the food properly.
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Staying hydrated always.
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Intake of any prebiotics and probiotics.
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Checking for food intolerances.
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Changing the diet.
Consult a gastroenterologist in Vijayawada if you needed a personalised plan for maintaining gut health or treatment for any digestive issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Why do people's gut microbiomes differ?
The gut microbiome can be affected by several factors such as diet, environment, use of antibiotics, stress, sleep and genetics. Each of these factors shows variations in individuals, which results in having a distinct gut microbiome in every individual.
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Why gut health should be maintained?
The gut microbiome influences the overall health of the individuals. A healthy gut contributes to:
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Strong immune system
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Healthy heart
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Brain Health
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Improved mood
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Healthy sleep
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Good digestion
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Some malignancies and autoimmune illnesses may be prevented.
Hence, changes in lifestyle and diet may benefit not just our gut health but also our overall health.
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What is the role of probiotics in gut health?
According to several studies, probiotics have little effect on the gut flora. Probiotics may drastically influence the nature of the gut microbiota and positively impact other aspects of health, such as immunity. Hence, the intake of probiotics helps in increasing the gut’s immunity.
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What are the foods recommended for a healthy gut?
There are also foods that actively support the growth of good bacteria, improving gut health. Some such foods include:
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Food with high fibre content such as legumes, whole grains, vegetables, nuts and fruits.
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Garlic.
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Fermented foods.
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Collagen-boosting foods include citrus foods, broccoli, meat, eggs and nuts.
