Improving Gut Health

Feb 6, 2024 admin

It has become evident in recent years that the relationship between the gastrointestinal microbiome and health conditions in the human body is even more complex than we can appreciate. There are obvious examples of this relationship between gut flora and GI health with disease states such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s Disease, and other direct digestive dysfunctions. However, more and more findings suggest the gut may be associated with immunological or neurological systems, headaches, skin rashes, joint pain, and even the inability to focus. This gut-brain relationship, when imbalanced, could cause issues such as certain cancers, anxiety, stress, and mood disorders to name a few.

The good news is that there are some lifestyle modifications one can undergo to support healthy gut flora. Exercising often, reducing stress, limiting or eliminating alcohol use, and getting enough restful sleep are just a few factors that positively influence gut health. Additionally, fueling the body with gut-friendly food such as those high in fiber or naturally fermented are great diet changes one can make. Regular consumption of probiotics such as those found in foods like yogurt, or fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi encourage a diverse and healthy microbiome.

While eating more of these positive influencing foods while also limiting those that can cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, etc. all seem to encourage the microbiome to thrive. Other than the occasional indulgence, avoiding things like fried foods, sugary drinks, and even low-calorie artificial sweeteners can significantly improve your gastrointestinal health. Limiting certain medication use such as antibiotics or drugs that affect the gut Ph such as proton pump inhibitors may provide an environment for gut flora to flourish. As always, make sure you check in with your doctor before making any adjustments to your medication regimen.

If you have already done these lifestyle adjustments, still struggle with symptoms, and wish to improve your gut health there are some novel therapies such as prescriptions of compounded low dose naltrexone. These daily doses typically are between 0.5-5mg and have been shown to improve symptoms for a wide range of gastrointestinal issues. Even fecal transplantation appears to have positive correlations with the gut-brain axis.

With the new year beginning, now is a perfect time to make these lifestyle adjustments. It’s never a bad time to be proactive about your health!

Stacy Smoler ~ Pharm D

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