The importance of a healthy gut
As a (previous) Crohn’s patient I am passionate about gastrointestinal health for my patients since I know how debilitating poor digestion can be.
I want to share some clinical insight and tips for great gut health that you can incorporate into your life now.
Our gastrointestinal/gut health is extremely important to how our bodies function.
Our gut it is the foundation for our immune system, our ability to absorb vitamins and minerals and eliminate toxins, as well as the building blocks for our cognitive health.
Research is showing the importance of a healthy gut microbiome and our mental well-being. A happy healthy gut equals a happy healthy mind.
Digestive symptoms that you should see a healthcare practitioner about are diarrhea, constipation, gas and bloating, pain and bleeding.
In order to maximize your gut health, I would recommend taking a good probiotic – I accredit this one tip for curing me of Crohn’s disease.
I take a daily probiotic and suggest it to most patients dealing with inflammation and gut issues. It is important to choose human strain bacteria in order to recolonize the gut microbiome permanently.
If you are struggling with your digestion, it is important to implement some dietary modifications.
I would recommend eliminating gluten or dairy – these two inflammation builders can wreak havoc on the gut lining. These two foods have been proven to contribute to leaky gut and systemic inflammation.
In addition to removing foods that irritate the gut lining, it is wise to consume foods that can heal the gut lining.
Anti-inflammatory foods or supplements can be of great aid here. Foods to incorporate are cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, cabbage, bok choy) and bioflavonoids (green tea, citrus, dark chocolate, red wine, organic berries, spinach and garlic). Herbs that can heal the gut and can be taken in capsule form are curcumin, althea and slippery elm.
I have personally conquered Crohn’s disease so I know what it’s like to have poor digestive health.
In good health,
Dr. Kate Hunter, ND
Kate Hunter is a naturopathic doctor who is practising at Body ‘n Balance on weekends. Visit www.katehunternd.com.
