Holistic answer to a happy gut

IMPROVE YOUR DIGESTION by Patrick Holford. Published by Jonathan Ball, recommended price R315. THE gut is often referred to as the second brain – and for good reason.

Technically known as the enteric nervous system, this “second brain” consists of tiny neurons embedded in the walls of the long tube of your gut, or alimentary canal.

If the workings of your digestive system have been a deep, dark mystery to you up to now, perhaps it is time to begin appreciating the significant ways in which your gut can actually influence your mood and appetite.

British nutrition expert Patrick Holford, author of more than 30 health books, has maintained for years that a healthy gut is crucial to all-round good health. Many other healthcare professionals are now agreeing and research is backing this up.

Improve Your Digestion is a fully revised edition of Holford’s book first published in 1999, and unpacks just why good digestion is so vital to your overall health.

Holford looks at the most common digestive problems and how to help prevent them. Some people are plagued by indigestion, heartburn and ulcers; others by bloating and constipation.

On the more complex end of the spectrum, though becoming increasingly widespread, are the likes of irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease and Crohn’s disease.

Many live (miserably) with their symptoms but the relief of finally getting your tummy troubles under control is “priceless”, as the credit card advert once stated!

Holford’s approach is holistic and his suggestions are mostly sensible and not too complicated to follow.