Many of us hear the word “bacteria” and we automatically think of infections. But most bacteria don’t cause any harm to humans, or they do only under certain conditions. Our gut microbiome—another word for environment—is composed of trillions of cells, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and more. Every person has a unique microbiome and the bacteria in the microbiome play several roles. They protect your gut from harmful bacteria and they also break down food molecules so your body can convert them into fuel. Your overall health can influence your gut biome just as your gut biome can influence your overall health.
If you’re curious about how to improve your gut health , we’ve answered the tough questions about what you should know about the link between gut health and diet . Here’s what to keep in mind. Why Is Your Gut Health Important?
Have you ever been so nervous that you couldn’t eat? Do you get butterflies in your stomach when you have to speak to a group of people or go somewhere you’ve never been before? Do you find yourself running to the bathroom when you get stressed? As odd as it may sound, your gut is often referred to as your second brain . The human gut has more than 100 million nerve cells that not only tell your body when to release hormones related to digestion, they actually communicate with your brain. Your gut health affects this communication, and the effects of the brain connection can be even more obvious if you have a condition that affects your bowels, such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease.
Signs of an unhealthy gut vary between people, but the most common symptoms include: Gas
Abdominal bloating
Diarrhea
Constipation
Weight changes
Difficulties with sleep Gut Health Affects Your Whole Body “Your diet, what you’re putting into your body, [is] what is going through your gut, so it has a direct impact on not just your gut microbiome, but also the integrity of your gut,” says Camille Skoda, RDN, LD , a dietitian at Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine […]
Eat Your Way to a Healthier Gut—Here’s What You Need to Know About Gut Health and Diet
