Gut health has made major headlines over recent years, and for good reason. A healthy gut is said to boost our immune system, help us maintain a healthy weight and even improve our mood. Plus, there are the obvious benefits of reduced bloating and a smoother digestive process. Sound appealing? We ask the experts what it really takes to keep our guts happy.
YOUR MICROBIOME MATTERS
‘Bacteria exist in and around our body and are referred to as the microbiome. The diversity of bacteria in it is personal to each individual and most reside in the gut, forming a defensive barrier against foreign invaders harmful to health,’ explains nutritionist Rob Hobson.
‘Taking a daily probiotic supplement is a good way to maintain beneficial bacteria in your gut, as is eating a range of healthy, unprocessed foods.’
PROBIOTICS AND PREBIOTICS: PARTNERS IN GUT HEALTH
Probiotics – often dubbed ‘good’ or ‘beneficial’ bacteria – are live bacteria and yeasts, strains of which have been shown to have a number of benefits.
As well as helping to maintain good digestion, research has shown that probiotics can help with diarrhoea and constipation, as well as having a positive impact on conditions that can affect the digestive system such as Irritable Bowl Syndrome (IBS) and lactose intolerance.
‘Beneficial bacteria also help to synthesise (ie supply to the body) vitamins B1, B12, D and folic acid,’ adds Rob. ‘Research also suggests that probiotics help support the immune system and, in the future, may even help with mental health issues and obesity.’
This story is from the May 2020 edition of Woman & Home Feel Good You.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 2020 edition of Woman & Home Feel Good You.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Time to try TAI CHI
From improving your balance to boosting your immunity, low-impact exercise has lots of unexpected benefits
Animals are our EXERCISE
Meet the women whose beloved pets help them stay healthy and happy
Shiny, happy HAIR
Rhiannon Derbyshire reveals her fail-safe saviours to revive lacklustre locks
EAT TO BEAT JOINT PAIN
Battle body aches with healthy, inflammation-busting meals
Your speedy HOLIDAY SHAPE-UP
Our healthy summer weight-loss plan is packed with flavour and will help you to feel amazing - fast
'SUNSHINE can make me REALLY ILL'
Practising self-care has helped Ginny Roberts, 52, to live confidently with lupus
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN You take medication for depression
From side effects to feeling the benefits, here's what to expect
You can FACE your FEARS
We're told to feel the fear and do it anyway, but that's easier said than done. Rather than dreading it, Debra Waters decided to find ways to embrace it
Lighten THE LOAD
From people-pleasing to decision fatigue, free yourself and make this your happiest holiday season ever
DREAM and it will COME!
The power to change things could be simpler than you think