Importance of having a Good Gut Health
Your gut health and a balanced digestive microbiome are two vital parts of your overall health. That’s because your gastrointestinal tract is your body’s fuel line. Keeping it in good shape allows your body to maximize the benefits of your nutrition. But there is one obstacle that can have a profoundly negative effect on your gut health, and that is your mental state.
Some of the most direct medical consequences of stress are gastrointestinal symptoms. Studies have shown that stress is a contributing factor for inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease and even peptic ulcers. In fact, virtually all digestive conditions can be caused or compounded by stress.
So, logically, to improve your gut health, you should do something to manage your stress. Fortunately, there are dozens of proven ways to manage stress. But here are five effective methods to get you on track and improving your gut health.
Work It Out
Exercising is a fantastic way to burn off negative energy at the end of the day, or to mentally prepare for the day ahead. It gives you simple goals to achieve, and accomplishing something can help you feel better about yourself. Of course, exercise has plenty of other health benefits, too.
Eat Right
The food you eat can actually increase or decrease your stress levels. Foods that are high in fat or sugar, or that are highly processed, tend to increase stress. Conversely, lean meats, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables markedly decrease stress levels. Eating healthy is also good for you in other ways. So, healthy eating is beneficial for both mind and body.
Laughter Is the Best Medicine
It seems cliché, but the old maxim is true. Laughter really does improve your health. Laughing lowers your blood pressure, slows your heartrate and breathing, and helps your muscles unwind. To relieve stress through humor, look for some comic entertainment. That can be anything from a funny movie to a good book.
Improve your Time Management Skills
One of the biggest stressors in life is never having enough time in the day to get everything done. But in most cases, that’s a matter organization. Google ‘time boxing’ for instructions on how to regain control of your schedule. If you still can’t get things done, it’s time to prioritize what’s most important, and say no to all the rest.
Give It a Rest!
Your mind wasn’t made to do the same repetitive tasks for hours and days on end. If you don’t watch out, you could become a victim of burnout. Breaking from your routine to do something different, or just to rest, will reduce your stress levels.
So, if you want to improve your gut health, then try to reduce your stress levels. It will make a world of difference.
