You are more than what you eat. In fact, a great deal of who you are is determined by the 100 trillion bacteria that live in your digestive tract. Some are good for you and some are bad. Ideally, you want to do all you can to foster the growth of positive bacteria and tip the scale toward healthy digestive functions. Here's what you need to know.
Benefits of a Healthy Gut
There are many benefits of maintaining a healthy digestive system, and, in the reverse, many hazards associated with an unhealthy gut. On the positive side, maintaining good digestive functioning helps you maintain a healthy weight, gain energy, improve your immune response and enjoy a better quality of life.Symptoms of an Unhealthy Gut
On the negative side, an unhealthy gut is associated with:- Obesity and diabetes
- A greater number of more intense food allergies
- Digestive issues like bloating, gas and diarrhea
- Chronic fatigue and irritability
- Mental disturbances like anxiety, depression and lack of concentration
What Can Probiotics Do for You?
Probiotics refer to any microorganisms that improve your health as well as any foods that support the growth of positive internal flora. Many people find that they need probiotic dietary supplements to get enough positive bacteria to tip the balance toward a healthier gut. Probiotic supplements are normally measured in CFU's (colony forming units), which specify how many live, viable microorganisms are inside each capsule. You will need billions of CFU's to make a difference.Ways to Improve Your Digestive System Naturally
Everyone is unique in terms of how much exercise they need to maintain a healthy gut. Most people show great improvements in digestive health with just 30 minutes a day or at least 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise. Expensive health club memberships and complicated diets are not required. Walking, jogging, jumping jacks and planks cost nothing and are a few of the best ways to improve your gut health over time.
In terms of changes to your diet, you'll be able to find probiotics in many varieties of delicious foods. Focus on dark green and yellow vegetables alongside fewer red meat and more high fiber grains. Bananas, honey, ginger, peppermint, Granny Smith apples, and yogurt are a few of the most powerful probiotic desserts. Although these small changes can have very positive effects on your gut health, make sure you talk to a healthcare professional about your individual needs before you make any big changes to your exercise and diet schedules.
Supplements and Lifestyle Changes Together
The best option for many people includes a combination of probiotic supplements with small lifestyle changes to see the maximum health benefits. Probiotic supplements from Incite Nutrition contain 10 billion CFU's of lactobacillus acidophilus to help you get on the right digestive track and stay that way. Remember that even small changes in your diet, exercise and supplementation schedule can make a significant difference in your digestive — and overall — health.