Gut health HELP!
Here’s what to give your body for a happy and healthy tummy
We’ve all heard how important it is to keep our gut health in check – but how exactly do we do that? What should we be eating? Does exercise play a part? What’s the impact of stress? Here’s everything you need to know…
PICK PREBIOTICS, TOO
Probiotic foods are everywhere when it comes to taking care of gut health, but what are prebiotic foods?
“Probiotic foods contain live ‘good’ bacteria. Prebiotic foods, on the other hand, don’t necessarily contain living organisms, but rather are a rich source of the food that makes our microscopic friends thrive,” says naturopath Reece Carter. “Prebiotics are fibre, or indigestible carbohydrates, that pass through the digestive system and feed the bacteria that already live there. The science suggests that they make the good bacteria proliferate, and release compounds called short-chain fatty acids that help keep the gut lining in tip-top shape. Good sources of prebiotics include asparagus, onions, garlic, and leek.”
SAY YES TO YOGHURT
Because it’s a fermented food, yoghurt contains a bunch of probiotic cultures that build up the strength of your digestive tract. A great one to try is Danone Activia, which contains an exclusive probiotic strain, Bifidus Actiregularis (and no added sugar), that’s scientifically proven to help improve digestive discomfort. Available at Coles les and Woolworths, hs, $4.50 for 4 x 125g.
STRESS LESS
Your gut and brain are constantly in communication with h one another, so if you’re feeling stressed, ed, studies have shown it can affect your digestive system. In fact, when stressed, you’re more likely to experience IBS symptoms such as diarrhoea and bloating.
DON’T OVERDO EXERCISE
“It’s widely agreed that hat prolonged or excessive ive stress – including physical hysical stress like exercise – can have negative impacts cts on gut health,” adds Reece. ece. “Ensure you’re getting ng your dose of daily physical hysical activity, but recognise se that it’s not always a case of ‘more is better’.”