Habits That Can Seriously Impact Your Gut

Did you know your body has approximately 5 trillion bacteria, the majority of which live primarily in your gut? Your gut health plays a vital role in your overall well-being, affecting not only your digestion but also your immune system, mood, and more. Certain habits can either support or harm your gut. 

Eating a Low-Fibre Diet 

A low-fibre diet can disrupt digestion by causing an imbalance in gut microorganisms. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are high in fibre, which feeds good bacteria and promotes a healthy gut environment.

Excessive Sugar Consumption

Sugar consumption can disturb gut flora balance and stimulate the growth of dangerous germs. Over time, this imbalance may cause inflammation and intestinal difficulties.

Antibiotic Overuse

While antibiotics are necessary for battling infections, excessive usage can be harmful to your gut health. Antibiotics have the potential to disturb the equilibrium of gut flora, potentially leading to gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhoea and dysbiosis.

Study conducted by Environmental Health Perspective says, “antibiotics typically induce a short-term decrease in helpful bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli while temporarily increasing dangerous bacteria such as Clostridium.”

Det Rich In Prebiotics

As per study, prebiotics are fibres that pass through the body undigested and encourage the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria. 

Prebiotic fibre is naturally found in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A lack of these in your diet may be detrimental to your digestive health. Some foods rich in prebiotics are lentils, chickpeas and beans, oats and bananas. 

Also read: Healthy Gut Can Fight Against Auto-immune Diseases, Study Finds

Stress And Gut Health 

Through the gut-brain connection, high stress levels can have an influence on gut health. Stress can trigger intestinal inflammation and upset gut flora balance, potentially contributing to digestive pain. One study , conducted on humans, examined the impact of stress on the count of gut bacteria among 23 college students. 

Inadequate Sleep

Inadequate sleep and poor sleep quality might have a negative impact on intestinal health. Sleep deprivation can cause gut flora imbalances and impair the integrity of the gut lining.

Insufficient Physical Activity 

Regular physical activity promotes normal digestion and increases blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract, which benefits gut health. Sluggish digestion might be exacerbated by sedentary lifestyles.

Processed and fast foods

Fast food and processed food diets are frequently low in nutrients and high in harmful fats and chemicals. These foods can cause inflammation and have a detrimental impact.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Heavy alcohol intake can disrupt the gut barrier and lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria. This imbalance may contribute to digestive issues and inflammation.

Not Drinking Enough Water

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut. Insufficient water intake can lead to constipation and hinder the movement of food through the digestive tract.

Your gut health is influenced by a variety of factors, including your diet, lifestyle, and stress levels. By cultivating habits that support a diverse and balanced gut microbiome, you can enhance your overall well-being. 

Also read: Why Is the Gut Called Our Second Brain? Read on To Know

A high-fibre diet, eating probiotic-rich foods, reducing stress, and prioritising sleep are just a few methods to improve your gut health. Remember that making small changes gradually can result in significant improvements in your digestive and overall health.