Gut Health is Whole Body Health

They often say you are what you eat, but let me tell you a little secret – you're truly made up of what you digest. Sounds similar, right? Well, not quite. If our digestive system isn't firing on all cylinders, our bodies struggle to fully break down and absorb all the nutrients we're putting in. That means you could be eating clean and nutritious food but if your gut is imbalanced you’re not even digesting and absorbing all those organic ingredients. Crazy right? I know.

Let's chat about five key strategies to give your digestion the love and support it deserves. But before we dive into that, let's get a clear picture of how digestion actually works. Understanding the process will help you see why these strategies are so important.

How Digestion Works:

Now that we've got the basics down, let's talk strategies to keep your digestion humming along smoothly.

5 Strategies for Supporting Your Digestive System:

1. Reduce Stress: Digestion works best when we're relaxed. Stress hormones can interfere with proper digestion, so finding ways to de-stress – like deep breathing exercises – before meals can make a HUGE difference. Try it today. Inhale for 4, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Repeat 3X then begin to eat. Reflect on what you notice.

2. Slow Down and Chew: Take your time with meals, and chew your food thoroughly. Eating slowly helps break down food properly and activates those all-important enzymes. Make mealtime a mindful occasion. That means sitting down when you eat without distractions. Challenge yourself to eat all your meals today sitting at a table. Notice how you feel when you eat mindfully without distractions.

3. Stay Hydrated: Keep that water intake up! Proper hydration ensures nutrients can move through your digestive system smoothly. Find a water bottle you love and carry it with you throughout the day to stay on track. You would be surprised just how many problems water can solve! If you don’t poop regularly drinking half your bodyweight in water daily can drastically support this!

4. Embrace Fermented Foods: Fermented foods are not only tasty but also great for your gut health. They're rich in beneficial microorganisms that support digestion and increase nutrient absorption. Start slow with fermented foods and see how your body reacts. If you experience bloating, digestive upset, gas or discomfort it could be a sign of gut dysbiosis . Working one on one with a holistic practitioner can help you uncover the root of those issue. Learn more about the labs I run to understand your gut microbiome’s health.

5. Move Your Body: Physical activity isn't just good for your muscles; it's great for digestion too. A post-meal stroll can help stimulate muscle contractions and keep things moving along nicely. Bonus it regulates blood sugar too!

Taking care of your digestion is foundational to your overall health and well-being. If you're eager to dive deeper into this topic and other pillars of health, consider scheduling a call with me It's a fantastic way to see if personalized nutrition support is for you.

Remember, small changes can lead to big improvements when it comes to your digestion. Here's to a happier, healthier gut! 🌿💫