The health of your gut is directly linked to your overall well-being. If you experience frequent stomach upset, persistent fatigue, or chronic skin conditions, these may be a warning sign you need to pay more attention to your gut.
Gastro Center of Maryland specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of gastrointestinal conditions, including those triggered by an unhealthy gut microbiodome.
Our experienced gastroenterology team provides customized, integrative nutrition services to rest your gut health, so you can thrive on every level of physical wellness.
Your gut microbiome describes the 200 different types of microorganisms that live in your intestines. These microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, and viruses – some of which are beneficial to your body while others can be harmful.
When your gut microbiome is balanced, your risk for health issues like autoimmune disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), cancer, and mental health disorders is reduced.
Lacking a diverse gut microbiome can lead to chronic illnesses, poor immune function, hormone imbalances, and weight gain. Your daily habits and lifestyle have a significant effect on the health of your gut’s microbiome. Common factors that put you at risk for an unbalanced gut microbiome include:
Taking antibiotics and other medications can also contribute to gastrointestinal problems associated with an unhealthy gut.
While the integrative nutrition services available at Gastro Center of Maryland can revitalize your gut health, there are also things you can do at home to reset the gut microbiome and lower your risk for physical and mental illness.
Here are four strategies we recommend to get you started:
Drinking enough water throughout the day increases the bacteria diversity in your gut and helps flush out toxins that are harmful to your health.
Proper hydration also helps you avoid constipation and keeps stool soft and easy to pass.
Fresh vegetables like broccoli and fruits like oranges are good choices for those interested in improving their gut health. Fermented foods like sauerkraut and yogurt also contain probiotics that your gut microbiome needs to stay balanced.
Avoid foods that are processed, high in fat, and full of sugar. It’s also important that you eat enough fiber-rich foods to support your digestive system.
Take a slower approach to eating by chewing your food thoroughly rather than rushing through your mealtimes.
Eating too fast can cause stomach upset, gas, and bloating. In some people, fast-paced eating can put you at a higher risk for diabetes and obesity.
Stress takes a toll on your gut health, and living with unmanaged stress for too long can increase your risk for other chronic diseases.
Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation and yoga regularly. You should also find exercises you can do that help you burn off excess stress, such as walking, jogging, and playing tennis.
Call the Gastro Center of Maryland near you today to learn more ways you can boost your gut health or schedule an integrative nutrition consultation online.
