What is gut health?
The gut, also known as the gastrointestinal tract, has many important functions. It allows the body to digest food and absorb nutrients, release waste products, modulate the immune system, and communicate with other organs such as the brain, heart, and kidneys. A central aspect of all these critical roles is the gut microbiome; a collection of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes along with their secretions. The gut microbiome and the gastrointestinal lining are a major part of the equation when it comes to gut health.
Why do you need good gut health?
Gut health is directly related to your overall health. Since the gut is interconnected with other organs, poor gut health can cascade into larger issues. Inflammation, inappropriate immune activity, abdominal pain, digestive issues, psychological disturbances, and other issues can arise when gastrointestinal health is compromised. These are characteristics commonly associated with countless gastrointestinal conditions including inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome, whose effects are not limited to the digestive system. So if you want to stay healthy, don’t forget that the gut is at the core of health and well-being!
