A healthy GUT means a healthy mind and body.

Simple lifestyle changes could help increase the healthy bacteria you need for better wellbeing.

As if the pandemic hasn’t given us enough to worry about, research is now finding there may be a link between the health of your gut and Covid, not to mention bad eating habits, stress and of course 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.

Nutritionists have seen an influx of clients of all ages suffering 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, which may lead to a range of other symptoms.

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

It seems Gut issues have been exacerbated during the past two years.

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.

Six 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 lightly steamed, sauteed, stewed or roasted vegetables, bone broths, fermented foods in small amounts, 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 make it part of your work ethic to take a break, walk in the park at lunchtime, lay on the grass in a park find a quiet spot get comfy and shutdown 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 friends and family.

“Come on everybody GUT happy gut, Gut happy it’s a brand new day!”. Sung to “Get Happy” by Judy Garland.

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. So why think again and give your body and your GUT the chance to renew, get back on track and restore your flora.

6. Visit the clinic

Visit the clinic and lets talk GUT. Lets find whys to give your FLORA to bloom.

Remember 70-80% of your immune system is in your GUT and your GUT feeling should be to do something about it.

See you soon

Dr Mike “The Total Health Osteo.

Make an appointment today!