Bloating. Heartburn. Gas. If you’ve ever experienced digestive issues, you know how frustrating the symptoms can be. The good news is that making a few adjustments to your lifestyle can improve your gut health and get you back to feeling your best.

Tip #1: Evaluate your diet for potential food sensitivities

When it comes to gut issues, the phrase “everything in moderation” doesn’t always apply. Food sensitivities may be your body’s way of telling you something is off and eliminating certain things from your diet can make all the difference. Caffeine, gluten, alcohol, saturated fats, and processed sugar irritate the gut and can lead to symptoms like bloat, gas or cramping. These digestive problems are no fun and if left untreated can lead to a myriad of health issues. To figure out the root cause of your digestive issues, you may want to try eliminating inflammatory foods from your diet for several months.

Once you notice a change in your symptoms, slowly reintroduce one food at a time to find the culprit. It’s always beneficial to eat more anti-inflammatory foods like broccoli, kale, grapefruit, avocados, and cauliflower. Another thing we don’t always get enough of is fiber, which keeps the digestive system clean and healthy by easing bowel movements. Treat these lifestyle changes as an opportunity to kickstart healthy eating. If you need ideas, take advantage of meal delivery services or scroll through Pinterest for quick and easy recipes.

Tip #2: Manage your stress levels

There’s a reason why you may get a headache or experience high blood pressure when you’re stressed: The mind and body are incredibly connected. And the gut is no exception. The gastrointestinal tract responds to our emotions by triggering symptoms. That’s why if you feel anxious or angry, you may also feel nauseous. So how can we overcome these roadblocks to achieve optimal health?

• •Movement and meditation are the perfect pair when it comes to lowering your stress hormones. To stay committed, add a morning meditation practice and an online yoga class into your daily schedule.
• If you work inside an office or at home, you may start to feel confined to those four walls. Spending time outdoors can help you recharge, so make it a priority to get some steps in throughout the day or perhaps eat your lunch outside for some vitamin D.
• Adults should aim to get 6-8 hours of sleep per night, but that’s not always manageable. Practice good sleep hygiene by removing technology from your bedroom. If you feel anxious before bed, make a cup of tea or journal to calm your mind.

Tip #3: Consult with a health care provider

If you’re on a journey to improve your gut health and feel better, getting an expert’s opinion is crucial. Your health care provider can give guidance on next steps — whether that be supplements or a more specific diet. L-glutamine, prebiotics and probiotics are just a few supplements that can support the lifestyle changes you’re already making. A professional can also help uncover underlying issues like SIBO, IBS, and leaky gut. The sooner you find out the root cause of your gut issues, the sooner you can get back to feeling your best.

Ready to bring balance and vitality back into your life? Connect with us online or text us at (901) 312-7899.