Gut health is a hot topic. More information is coming out on just how important optimal gut health is. In fact, we would venture to say that gut health is one of the most important aspects of health. Why? Because studies have backed up the fact that a large portion of the immune system resides in the gut, and that gut bacteria plays a role in weight loss or weight gain. Plus, the gut-brain connection is crazy powerful. So, we’re here sharing the top five daily habits for gut health that you may not necessarily know about.
We’re sharing much more than just the standard recommendation to take your probiotic and eat your probiotic-rich foods. While this is important, there’s so much more that goes into showing your gut some love.
Let’s get to it. Here are the top five daily habits you actually want to have to support gut health.
The Top 5 Daily Habits For Gut Health
#1 Reduce That Stress
Yes, we know. We all have stress. And, if we’re all being honest with ourselves, there are seasons of life where getting control over our stress may be harder than others. But, here’s the thing. Making an effort to fit even just ten minutes of stress reduction into your day is key. Even just a few minutes per day is helpful.
Reducing stress is so important for supporting better gut health. Think about it-do you get an upset stomach during times of stress? This all has to do with the body’s fight-or-flight response. You know when your body thinks you are in danger and starts to totally freak. When your body is in this state, digestion slows to focus on the “threat” at hand. But, oftentimes, it’s perceived stress, but the body doesn’t know any different. So, our body responds to intense financial stress as we would to being chased by a bear. Chronic stress like this can cause our hormones to get totally out of whack, and our digestive system to be a mess.
#2 Get the Body Moving
While we’re on the topic of moving the body with some gentle yoga, regular movement is also important. Getting your body moving can help support better digestion. The body wasn’t designed to be sedentary. Think about what a sedentary lifestyle would do to your digestive system. A sluggish lifestyle equals a sluggish gut. Studies have shown that regular exercise can positively change gut bacteria. But, the key is to stay consistent. It’s getting that daily burn in that makes a big difference. So, find the FitOn workouts that you absolutely love and make time for them. The more you move, the better you feel.
#3 Drop The Sugar Habit
If you’re a sugar addict, we have some solutions for you. However, the first thing to realize is that the sugar isn’t doing your body any good, and it’s best to avoid refined sugar at all costs.
As you transition away from refined white sugar, try replacing them with natural options like raw honey or pure maple syrup. However, remember that these natural sweeteners are loaded with sugar too. Moderation is key.
#4 Amp up Your Fiber
Fiber helps feed all the healthy bacteria in the gut. Fiber also keeps you regular. Plus, fiber helps keep us full, meaning we are less likely to overeat, so it’s pretty key for maintaining a healthy weight. So, keep those little bugs healthy by eating lots of fiber-rich foods. Some great options include dark leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, beans, and rolled oats.
#5 Stay Hydrated
Speaking of regularity, staying hydrated is also an important part of boosting gut health. Drinking enough water can help keep you regular as well, a key part of maintaining optimal gut health.
Get Your Gut in Check
These daily habits are easy to implement and can help supercharge your health and be the foundation for better gut health. If you can even carve out 15 minutes per day to do a free FitOn yoga class using your free fitness app, or ten minutes of meditation, will do wonders for your health. It’s all about calming that sympathetic nervous system.
We all need to focus on gut health, no matter how healthy we are. Maintaining optimal gut health is so crucial for overall health. These daily habits for gut health can help get your gut health in check. Plus, these are all habits for an overall healthy lifestyle, so what are you waiting for?