Dr Mike Rowan (Osteopath)
Is the Total Health Osteo
Prahran Osteopathic Clinic
Healthy gut bacterial balance improves your immune system.
Research is now finding there may be a link between the health of your gut and Covid, bad eating habits, stress and the common cold.
While a runny nose, sore throat, headaches and fatigue are common symptoms of the flu and now Covid, the disease’s impact on the gut is becoming clearer as we learn more about it.
There has been an increase in gut health problems since the pandemic began.
Research has shown that Covid-19 can enter the digestive system through an enzyme in the gut called angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, which can affect the gut lining, causing it to become either perforated or inflamed.
Research published in online journal Gut reveals the health of your microbiome (the variety and volume of bacteria that make up your intestinal tract) may impact your immune response in both the short and long term.
Common causes of gut health issues
Increased stress, lack of exercise and changes in diet, with people eating more take-away food and less fresh fruit and vegetables, are all taking their toll. Your gut is the epicentre of your health, so if you’re suffering from gut issues you need to work on improving your gut microbiome, which will enhance your overall wellbeing. Visit the clinic and lets discuss how we can introduce the right supplements that may assist in restoring a healthy gut flora balance.
Five easy ways to love your guts
1. Change your diet
Avoid foods that inflame the gut including alcohol, gluten, dairy, sugar and caffeine.
“Gut-friendly foods include vegetables, bone broths, fermented foods, extra virgin olive oil and coconut oil, fibre-rich foods, sprouted grains, soaked or fermented gluten-free grains and nuts and seeds.
“Taking a pre or probiotic can boost the number of beneficial bacteria.”
2. Sleep and rest
Make sure you get enough sleep and if you are a workaholic take a break, walk in the park at lunchtime, lay on the grass in a park find a quiet spot get comfy and slowing down for even 20 mins can clear your mind and soul.
“There’s a strong gut/brain connection, and it’s thought that poor sleep has a negative influence on the diversity of your microbiome and gut health.”
3. Lower your stress levels
High levels of stress are hard for your whole body, including your gut.
Managing your stress may help reduce uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms and get you back in balance. Try taking a daily walk, meditation or just spending time with people you love.
4. Stay hydrated
This is an obvious one “Drink water”.
“Drinking plenty of water has been shown to have a beneficial effect on the mucosal lining of your intestines and can help promote the balance of good bacteria.”
5. Detox
You’ve thought about it and did nothing about it. Visit the clinic to start a detox.
Remember 70-80% of your immune system is in your GUT so make the change now. It is super easy as it is just tablets/powders for 3 months.
See you soon
Dr Mike “The Total Health Osteo.