5 WAYS TO A HAPPIER GUT
This summer B+G are going all in on our gut health as we discover how a happier gut can help create a happier life! The gut houses trillions of bacteria that equate to just over more than we have human cells in the body! This army of microbes manages everything from obvious digestion and absorption of nutrients through to the immune system as well as having a strong relationship with the brain, impacting mood and other cognitive processes.
It is easy to get totally overhwelmed by the amount of gut info out there so this blog is aimed ay bringing it back to basics. What simple things can we do to create a ‘happier gut’? Discover our top 5 below and discover how you can join us on your Happy Gut journey. .
Eat More Veggies – Having plenty of veggies in your diet ensures sufficient fibre that helps to keep the gut moving along nicely. It is this fibre that acts as an energy source for our microbes, giving them a plentiful feast so that they can produce substances such as butyrate that is crucial for the immune system and managing inflammation. Some of the more potent ‘feeding’ fibre sources are known as prebiotics. These include artichokes (particularly Jerusalem), under-ripe bananas (green-ish ones), chicory, garlic, onion and leeks. The other bonus on having more plants in the diet is the antioxidant polyphenol compounds. These are substances that predominantly give the plants their vibrant hues and help to ‘feed’ our gut bugs.
Eat Fermented Foods - Fermented foods are essentially those foods that contain bacteria produced during the fermentation process itself, hence why some people refer to them as ‘probiotic’ foods. Fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut (cabbage) as well as spicy varieties such as kimchi have been used in cultures for a long time. Kombucha, an effervescent green tea or even a flavoured water or yogurt kefir can be a gentle way to start introducing if you are new to fermented foods. Why not sign up to start your 7 day FREE trial membership with us and try our latest Kimchi recipe here.
Reduce Stress – There is a strong brain-gut connection that means your gut also faces the brunt of stress too. Stress management and helping the body to go into ‘rest + digest’ mode is a fundamental part of supporting gut health and digestion too. Day to day practising some level of stress management can have a positive effects. This could be walking, reading, breathing, yoga, pilates or meditation. Or simply calling a friend or watching a good movie.
Rest + Digest – Giving your gut some resting time is important to help the gut function optimally. Eating earlier in the evening and avoiding the late-night snacks can also help with better digestion. Like your mind is tired so is your gut so let it get some decent rest too.
Lots of ZZZ – Getting quality and quantity sleep also has a significant effect on your gut too. Research studies show that poor sleep hygiene can create a negative shift in your microbiome. To help try to create a relaxing pre-bedtime ritual. Yoga, meditation, lighting a candle, turning off your phone an hour before bed can all help to encourage a more restful night.
HAPPY GUT | HAPPY LIFE
This summer join the Balance and Glo team as we delve into the world of gut health across our four wellbeing pillars - Move, Nourish, Care and Nature and discover how each can play a part in the health of your 2nd brain - your gut!
Throughout the summer, you'll receive follow-along videos, guides, shopping lists, and top tips to support your gut health journey. And because good nutrition is key, we'll also share mouthwatering recipes featuring gut-friendly ingredients. But that's not all. We understand that gut health goes beyond what you eat. Stress can wreak havoc on your digestive system, which is why we'll provide yoga flows, breathwork exercises, and mindfulness techniques tailored to support your gut health goals.
Are you ready to prioritise your gut health and embark on a transformative journey towards wellness? Join us this summer and discover the joy of a happy, harmonious gut.
Scroll down to find out more, and join our FREE 7 day membership trial to access all the dedicated content and online studio library.