Gut health is so incredibly important and tied to our overall well being. Unfortunately, little about this has been taught in the mainstream, leading people to unconsciously damage their intestinal health daily. As a result, we’re seeing the rise of one of the most under addressed, yet most common health issues plaguing us today, a condition known as, Leaky Gut.
… doesn’t sound familiar to you?
Well, maybe you’ll recognize some of these symptoms….
- Bloating and Gas
- Diarrhea and/or Constipation
- Cramps
- Food Sensitivities/ Allergies
- Skin Disturbances
- Brain Fog/ Memory Lapses
- Headaches/ Migraines
- Depression
- Autoimmune diseases
- Compromised Immunity
Does that sound like you?… Well, keep reading!
“Leaky Gut” Sounds Weird. What’s this about?
Alternative health professionals have known for a long time (and now even medical doctors are starting to admit it), a poor diet, substance abuse, viruses, toxic lifestyle habits, and medications can all create small holes (‘leaks’) in the intestines. Stress caused by a hectic lifestyle is also a big known contributing factor to these intestinal leaks.
Why am I making such a big deal over tiny little holes, we can’t even see?
Well first, your gut plays a MAJOR role in your overall immunity. The human gastrointestinal tract houses a whopping eighty percent of your immune system!!! Yes, your immune system – that part of your body that protects and keeps your health in tip-top shape. Well, when there are leaks present along your tract, toxins enter through compromising your immunity. Through the leaks the toxins then enter into your blood stream. Your immune system recognizes these as foreign invaders and mounts an attack. This is when those terrible symptoms I mentioned earlier start taking hold, eventually causing issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome and food allergies.
…I Think I Might Have Leaky Gut. How Do I Fix It?
Fixing leaky gut doesn’t happen overnight, but there are many things that you can do to move towards healing:Decrease chronic stressors in your life. If you can’t eliminate the source of the stressors, work on relaxation techniques.
Avoid taking Advil, Tylenol, Aspirin and any other form ibuprofen and NSAIDS. These drugs can destroy the integrity of your intestinal tract. Find the root of the reason you’re taking the NSAID and remediate it naturally. If you’re getting a headache, you’re probably just dehydrated, drink more water. If you have a joint inflammation, try epsom bath soaks.
Sleep like a baby. Ensure that you’re getting around 8 hours of sleep every night. Try cutting back on caffeine as well, especially after noon.
Clean up your diet. Processed, chemically-laden foods can further damage your insides and are nutrient-negative. Focus on eating enough organic fruits and veggies, and ensure that you’re properly hydrated.
Take a probiotic supplement. Probiotics are ‘good bacteria’ that can help to restore the lining of the intestine. Look for a supplement in the refrigerated section of your local health food store. This means that the probiotic cultures are live and active.
Try some Glutamine: Supplementing with the amino acid L-glutamine can help to heal the gut, by protecting against mucosal breakdown of the gut. However, supplements should only be added on in conjunction with other lifestyle changes and not depended on completely.
Healing your intestines is a process that takes time and smart choices. Although it won’t be handed to you on a silver platter, sticking to healthy dietary and lifestyles changes can definitely make your symptoms subside over time.
My favourite gut restoring recipe is by far my Bone Broth, it uses collagen to help seal up those pesky little holes. Stay tuned next week when I share my gut healing Bone Broth recipe.
If you’re feeling extra sluggish in body, mind, and digestion, you should consider this information. Follow the tips above to help get your intestines back in check. Remember, the health of your gut = the strength of your immune system – don’t compromise either! For more information on a more in-depth customized Gut Healing plan made especially for you, please click here to fill out my prospective client form today.
Don’t forget to let me know about your personal gut remedies in the comments below.
Cheers & Namaste,
P.S. For more tips on gut health be sure to sign up for my e-mail mailing list (I promise not to spam you ;))
I’m Elle! A Toronto-based Holistic Nutritionist. I’m a multi-passionate woman, but nutrition and understanding how the body works is really my passion. Through my own personal journey, I have trained my body to heal itself using strategic, natural tools and techniques. Now I’m ready to help others!
As a new Mom, I understand that wellbeing is a journey. I hope my expertise will inspire other parents to choose nutrient-rich foods and the right products to create a happy, healthy and sustainable home. Click Here to Continue Reading
