Gut Health is a complex, interconnected system that influences every aspect of your body’s health. It functions as a communication center, disease fighter and a portal for taking in nutrients.
A healthy gut microbiome is critical for the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It also affects your mental health and emotional well-being, says Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist Eric Hecht, M.D.
Your GI tract is home to about 50 trillion bacteria, which are called the gut microbiome or “flora.” The bacterial collection is influenced by your diet, culture and environmental factors. Some of the bacteria suppress inflammation to keep you healthy, while others activate it.
The gut’s delicate balance between these two types of bacteria is what keeps you healthy, but when that balance gets out of whack, it can lead to a range of conditions from autoimmune disorders like thyroid issues and rheumatoid arthritis to Alzheimer’s disease and neuropathy.
Some of the most common symptoms tied to poor gut health include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea. It’s also important to pay attention to the foods you eat and how they make you feel.
Other possible signs of gut issues can include skin irritations, frequent headaches and a weakened immune system. In addition, some symptoms may be linked to chronic stress or anxiety, a condition that can damage the gastrointestinal system.
You can improve your gut health by consuming a balanced diet that includes plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts. You can also boost your good gut bacteria with prebiotics (foods that fuel the growth of probiotics), such as garlic and asparagus, and probiotic supplements.
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