6 Ways to Improve Gut Health
There has been a lot of conversation lately about the importance of the “gut” to our overall health. While scientists use to think of the gut only in terms of digestion, scientists now understand the role of the gut in many elements of our physical – and even mental – health. Dozens of studies have proven a link between gut health and immunity, mental health, chronic disease, hormone disorders, skin conditions, and even cancer risk.
Within the digestive tract, there are billions of good bacteria, called the “microbiome.” Don’t be alarmed – these aren’t harmful bacteria. Rather, they are highly beneficial and necessary for a healthy body and mind.
At Kennedy Chiropractic, we help people in Wauwatosa, Milwaukee and surrounding communities feel their best. Read on for our top tips for improving the health of your gut.
- Kick stress to the curb. Stress can have a major negative impact on your entire body, especially your gut microbiome. So lowering your daily stress levels will improve your health from the inside out. One of our favorite ways to lower stress is by incorporating movement into our daily lives. Try taking 2, 30 minute walks a day and tune in to the sights and sounds around you. Take deep breaths as you walk. For a fun twist, try out a new park or nature trail in Wauwatosa – we love the trail along the Honeycreek parkway!
- Catch more zzzs. Getting better sleep seems to be the key to better overall health while getting too little or poor quality sleep can wreak serious havoc on your gut microbiome. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (yes, even weekends) with the goal of getting at least 7 hours of sleep. Limit noise and light in your room and, if you continue to have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about other solutions.
- Schedule a chiropractic adjustment. Another great way to improve gut health is by visiting your chiropractor. Chiropractic adjustments align the spine, which has a positive impact on the functioning of the entire body. Reduced bodily inflammation is a related benefit of chiropractic care, and less inflammation leads to a healthier gut.
- Drink lots of water. A well-hydrated body is a healthy one, and that extends to your gut. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water (64 ounces) a day has been shown to have a positive effect on the intestinal lining and to improve the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
- Try a prebiotic or probiotic supplement. Adding in pre- and probiotic-rich foods or a supplement to your diet can have a positive impact on your gut health by promoting the growth of good bacteria. However, you should always talk to your doctor before changing your diet or adding a new supplement. If they give the go-ahead, ask for their recommendations to ensure you take a high-quality supplement that will have the best impact on your gut health.
- Adjust your diet. As mentioned above, adding pre- and probiotic-rich foods to your daily diet can have a positive impact on your gut health. These include alliums like garlic and onions and fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, miso, and kimchi. Studies have also shown foods high in fiber to be beneficial to gut health, so chow down on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Finally, collagen-boosting foods like salmon and bone broth may also have a positive benefit for the gut.
When your gut microbiome is healthy, your whole body will feel the positive effects. Simple health changes like improving your diet, getting better sleep, and reducing stress not only have a positive impact on your gut but are great for your entire physical and mental health. At Kennedy Chiropractic, we care about you as a whole person and love providing our clients with the best options to live their healthiest lives. Are you experiencing back or neck pain? Pregnancy-related aches? Or just looking to feel your best? Visit the best chiropractor in Wauwatosa – give Kennedy Chiro a call today.
