Bloating, stomach cramps and excess wind are clear signs your tummy needs TLC, but the impact of a dodgy gut goes much further. In fact, research shows that there’s a complex connection between our digestive system and overall health, and scientists now know that a happy tum improves wellbeing. Surprisingly, as much as 70% of our immunity is located in the gut and 90% of our ‘feel-good hormone’ serotonin is produced there too.
‘Everything from our brain and sleep patterns to digestion and our immune system is healthier when we have a healthy gut,’ explains Lola Biggs, dietitian at Together Health. ‘The gut microbiome is home to your diverse gut flora, made up of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms – both friendly and unfriendly – so maintaining the right balance is important.’
Luckily, there are steps you can take to keep things running smoothly. Here’s how to give your gut health an overhaul.
What harms gut health?
1. One study found significant changes in the gut flora of cigarette smokers. Get help to quit.
2. A heavy alcohol intake can result in an overgrowth of bad bacteria in the gut, so reduce the amount that you drink.
3. Some medicines such as antibiotics may affect the diversity of the gut. Talk to your GP.
4. The make-up of your gut microbiome is linked to sleep quality, so don’t skimp on shut-eye.
Boost good bacteria
Esta historia es de la edición March 21, 2023 de WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor ? Conectar
Esta historia es de la edición March 21, 2023 de WOMAN'S WEEKLY.
Comience su prueba gratuita de Magzter GOLD de 7 días para acceder a miles de historias premium seleccionadas y a más de 8500 revistas y periódicos.
Ya eres suscriptor? Conectar
Love is a BANANA SPLIT
Did Mum's new boyfriend know the way to a woman's heart?
'I still remember poems I learnt at school'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Actor and Jane Asher
CHERRY GARDEN Street
It was a place of magical childhood memories- but was it home?
JERSEY shores
Beautiful beaches and a mash-up of British and French culture make this island a delightful destination
Lovely lighter DINNERS
Whip up a healthy and nutritious meal
Looking after our WORLD
Two women talk about their efforts to help better the environment
Summer SURPRISES
For a weekend treat, try these classic bakes with a twist
200 years of heroism
The RNLI celebrates its bicentennial of saving people from the sea
Cut your risk of HEART DISEASE!
Some things can increase your chances, including menopause and diabetes. Here's what you need to know – and what you can do
'I want Bob Dylan to join the cobbles'
Dame Maureen Lipman on ageing, her dream co-star in Corrie and overcoming tragedy