Poor digestive function and gut health problems can affect most of us at some point in our life. Many people experience discomforts like bloating or irregularity, which can sometimes signal that their gut health could use attention. It is worth noting that stress, food choices, and lifestyle can all influence how we feel.

Ultimately, a healthy digestive system means a healthy you.

Look after YOUR MICROBIOME

Understanding the different between Probiotics & Prebiotics can help you make good food choices to have a healthier gut.

Probiotics and prebiotics work as a team and help nourish and enhance the gut’s microbiome, home to over 50 trillion bacteria of around 1000 different species. Although we typically think of bacteria as bad, it’s helpful to understand there are good types of bacteria as well, particularly in the gut.

Probiotics are living organisms that may help boost and balance the gut’s good bacteria. This good bacteria aids in digestion, nutrient absorption, plus much more – potentially including brain function.  You’ll find probiotics in some fermented foods, such as cultured yoghurt and sauerkraut, as well as in powder form to add to smoothies and capsule form to take daily

Though introducing probiotics can be beneficial, it’s important to provide an optimal environment for the ‘good’ bacteria to thrive.  You can do this by using prebiotics.

Prebiotics are nondigestible carbohydrates that feed the good bacteria in your gut. Jerusalem artichoke, onions and garlic are popular types of prebiotic foods that you can add to your diet to promote digestive health. Feeding the good bacteria may help them thrive and produce favourable effects on the immune system, skin health and digestion, such as reduced bloating.

IMPROVE YOUR DIET

Eating large amounts of processed foods and consuming alcohol can lead to an imbalance in digestive flora – which could lead to digestive symptoms such as bloating and bowel irregularity.  Avoiding these types of food will help you sustain your gut bacteria. Turmeric is also a wonderful anti-inflammatory which can help with liver detoxification to remove excess toxins.

Adding fermented foods like sauerkraut and kefir can be beneficial, as they provide probiotics that support the healthy bacteria in your gut.

WORK ON YOUR DIGESTION

Good health relies heavily on the absorption of nutrients from your GIT. Remember to chew slowly and thoroughly to lighten the digestive load on your GIT. If this proves too hard you can try digestive enzymes. Digestive enzymes support the process of digestion, allowing you to digest food more easily. Additionally, digestive bitters and a splash of apple cider vinegar in your water can aid digestion. Celtic salts can also help maintain electrolyte balance.

STAY REGULAR

Having regular and complete bowel motions is important for your digestive health. Make sure you’re consuming adequate amounts of fibre from fibre rich foods including vegetables, fruit, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. And be sure to drink at least two litres of water a day to assist the movement of fibre through the intestinal tract to improve bowel regularity.

HERBAL AND NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT

Support the health of your gastrointestinal system with nutrients and herbs. These can include:

L-Glutamine – an amino acid this is a source of fuel for intestinal mucosal cells and supports intestinal health.

Licorice – helps to maintain healthy mucous linings in the digestive system.

Calendula – a herb traditionally used in Western herbal medicine as an anti-inflammatory to help relieve mild gastrointestinal tract inflammation

For those seeking extra support, there are a variety of supplements – like Motion Potion for digestive comfort and Quenda Ultimate Fibre for regularity. You might also find Pyewackets Flora Cider useful for gut balance. Other options include Collagen or Gelatin for gut lining support and Medlab Multibiotic for enhancing gut flora. Always consult with a healthcare practitioner before starting any new supplements.

Flannerys Organic & Wholefood Market has Qualified Naturopaths that provide complimentary advice on health and wellbeing, including digestive health. If you’ve been experiencing bloating, skin issues or have overindulged during the silly season, visit the team to find out the best approach to your personal wellness journey.

Please consult your health care provider before consuming any supplements.

Assunta Hamilton
Qualified Naturopath