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How Poor Gut Health Impacts Skin Health, Mood, and Sleep

by Vishnu on Jun 23 2023 12:48 PM
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How Poor Gut Health Impacts Skin Health, Mood, and Sleep
Is there a link between your digestive health and skin health? Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for your overall well-being (1 Trusted Source
Keeping Your Gut in Check

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Have you ever noticed that sometimes you get face acne and puffiness when you are constipated, or you feel irritated because you are bloated? Probably, yes, without knowing it's related to your digestive health! Face acne can lead to a lack of confidence, which may impact your presentation at work or even dim your mood before a party. It shows that bad digestive health affects daily life in more ways than once. Often overlooked, our digestive system plays a vital role in overall well-being.

Everyone knows the digestive system is responsible for breaking down food, extracting nutrients, and eliminating waste. When our digestive system functions optimally, our bodies receive the necessary energy and nutrients. However, if our digestive system is not in good shape, it may struggle to break down and absorb these nutrients effectively, leading to potential health problems.

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Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Digestive System

Maintaining a healthy gut contributes to a robust immune system. A significant portion of our immune cells reside in the stomach. A balanced and diverse gut microbiome - the collection of micro-organisms in our digestive tract - helps support immune function and protect against harmful pathogens. Taking care of digestive health is crucial for bolstering the body's defence mechanisms.

Beyond physical health, the gut is often called the "second brain" due to the intricate connection between our digestive system and mental well-being. Imbalances in the gut microbiota can impact mood, cognition, and even the risk of mental health disorders. By nurturing our digestive health, we can promote not only a happy gut but also a happy mind.

But how can one maintain a healthy digestive system? Here are several simple yet effective steps you can take for your digestive health:

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Fiber and Nutrients for Maintaining a Healthy Digestive System

The food we consume directly affects our digestive health. A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins provides the fibre and essential nutrients necessary for a healthy digestive system. Fibre promotes regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation. It also supports the growth of gut bacteria, which benefits the body.

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Exercise also Plays a Role in Preventing Constipation

Physical activity is not only beneficial for cardiovascular health and weight management but also plays a role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Exercise helps to stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting efficient digestion and preventing issues such as constipation. You must get at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.

Stress Management for Good Gut Health

Stress has a significant impact on the digestive system. Chronic stress can disrupt the natural balance of the gut, leading to digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, and even irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Practising stress management techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, or engaging in hobbies can support a healthy digestive system.

The Importance of Quality Sleep

Quality sleep is essential for overall health and maintaining a healthy digestive system. Lack of sleep can result in imbalances in gut bacteria and contribute to digestive problems. One needs at least 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to support optimal digestive health.

Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can harm your digestive system. Smoking increases the risk of acid reflux, stomach ulcers, and digestive cancers. Excessive alcohol consumption irritates the digestive tract and disrupts the balance of gut bacteria. It's best to quit smoking altogether and consume alcohol in moderation, if at all, to support a healthy digestive system.

Reference:
  1. Keeping Your Gut in Check - (https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2017/05/keeping-your-gut-check)

Source-IANS


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