The Impact of Gut Health on The Whole Body

The gut is a complex body part with more bacteria than other parts. The gut health can impact other aspects of the overall human health. Unfortunately, some people rarely think about gut health until they develop gut-related health challenges. The group of bacteria found in the gut are called gut microbiota and can influence or enhance human health. This piece will discuss the impact of gut health on the whole body.

Every Individual Has a Unique Microbiota

The trillions of bacteria found in the gut may fall into 1000 different species. This means each individual will likely have a unique combination in the gut. Why is this knowledge important? The healthiest individuals have a combination of certain species of bacteria. Therefore, using healthy gut supplements could help improve overall health. It is important to note that many factors affect gut health, including diet, genes, medication, and environment.

The Role of Gut Microbiota 

Gut microbiota helps metabolize nutrients from the food, drinks, and medicine that a person consumes. It also protects the body from internal infections and manufactures vitamin K necessary for blood clotting. Recent research suggests that gut health is associated with improved overall health. A diverse gut microbiome is typically associated with better health and well-being. Unfortunately, a gut microbe imbalance could lead to dysbiosis, associated with obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, eczema, chronic kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis and liver disease.

People with celiac disease, autism spectrum disorder, and colon cancer experienced changes in gut microbiota. Still, it is unclear whether the diseases cause changes in gut microbiota or the changes in microbiota cause the diseases. Other studies suggest a link between gut health and heart health since some gut microbiota produce a chemical that blocks arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Does Microbiota Influence Immune System?

This is an interesting question for researchers, scientists, and individuals seeking to enhance their immunity. There are discoveries of a positive relationship between the immune system and balanced gut health. Although more research and trials of prebiotics and probiotics are necessary, the current discoveries lay a foundation for future discoveries to improve health.

Gut Health and Its Connection With the Brain

There is a potential link between mental health issues and an imbalance in the gut microbiome. The gut is connected to the nerves that send messages to the brain and back. Serotonin and other neurotransmitters are made in the gut. People experiencing depression or anxiety have low serotonin, which produces a feeling of happiness. Some psychological disorders are linked with specific bacteria species in the gut, suggesting that specific probiotics can help treat these disorders. Besides, a recent study revealed that people who changed their diet to improve gut health also reduced anxiety symptoms.

Tips to Improve Gut Health

Although there is no consensus on maintaining a healthy gut, there are a few generally acceptable tips. Medical professionals recommend eating and drinking fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir, kimchi, and miso. Using chamomile, peppermint, and ginger can also support the gut. Avoid foods that cause imbalance, such as fried foods, alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks. Additionally, fiber-rich foods and drinking enough water daily can improve overall gut health.

Although further research is necessary to investigate the relationship between gut health and overall health, it is clear that gut microbiomes offer more benefits than enhancing digestion. Therefore, apply these tips and consult professionals to enjoy improved overall health.