Understanding Gut Health: Importance, Signs, and Solutions for Optimal Wellbeing

What is the gut and why is gut health so important?

When we talk about the gut we are discussing the gastrointestinal tract, which is the long tube starting at the mouth and ending at the anus. Food enters the mouth and is then passed into the esophagus and into the stomach. It will then pass into the small intestine where in a perfect world food, is broken down by enzymes and then nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. Any waste, toxins or fibre then pass through the large intestine which eventually leads to the rectum where stools are eliminated, hopefully on a daily basis.

You know the phrase to trust your gut instinct, well it’s referring to us tuning into our intuition or emotions. There is sense behind this saying as our gut is known as the body’s second brain and there is a direct line of communication running between the two through activation of the vagus nerve. The Gut-brain axis consists of linking peripheral intestinal functions with emotional and cognitive centres of the brain. We experience gut issues when under emotional stress and equally we can experience emotional problems if our digestive system is compromised, which issue came first? It can be somewhat similar to the chicken and the egg question. Our gut microbiota plays a significant role in this signaling from the gut to the brain and the brain to the gut, so having a healthy gut flora is paramount. All of our systems are interconnected in the body and when one is not working at its best that will certainly affect the other systems in a sort of domino effect way, resulting in a myriad of chronic health complaints. It is interesting that our gut bacteria can become compromised even before we are born, as studies have linked prenatal maternal stress to lower levels of beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacillus.

For example there is an undeniable link between the gut and our immune systems, with around 70-80% of the body’s immune system being housed in the gut. It is important that we have this immune support in the digestive tract as many pathogens enter the body through the gut such as fungus, bad bacteria and parasites which all contribute to disease. Therefore it’s essential for health that our guts immune system is functioning well so that we don’t get sick. If you find your immune system is quite low and you are taking numerous rounds of antibiotics each year then it’s time to boost your gut health. Having enough of the right good bacteria is essential to maintain a health gut and immune system, they act like the army as such, fighting off invaders or pathogens that can cause illness.

Our digestive system has a great ability to defend itself from bad bacteria and other pathogens, infectious diseases and toxins through digestive immune cells and good bacteria. Problems can arise if the integrity of the gut lining is compromised and we start to develop intestinal permeability or leaky gut. These leaks allow pathogens and undigested food particles to pass through into the bloodstream and can travel to different parts of the body, even passing the blood brain barrier. Effectively a leaky gut will cause out immune systems to go into overdrive so that we can become more sensitive or intolerant to certain foods, including things like gluten and dairy. If left with these leaks then a person may have an increased risk of immune abnormalities and develop autoimmune conditions such as hashimotos, rheumatoid arthritis, graves, depression, fibromyalgia etc

Having a healthy gut is also very important in regulating energy levels and moods. Around 85-90% of the body’s serotonin is made in the gut and having certain bacteria in the gut can increase or decrease the amount of serotonin produced. Having a healthy microbiome helps to ensure we produce enough of this “”feel good neurotransmitter”, to keep our moods lifted.

Our bacterial flora also influence our weight, studies have identified different types of bacterial strains that are prevalent in those who are obese and have metabolic diseases like high cholesterol. For example the bacterial strain Fermicutes, so improving bacterial flora is an important way to ensure a healthy weight is maintained through life.

Hippocrates “all disease begins in the gut” so prioritizing gut health is the key to a healthy, happy life.

Five signs that we have a leaky gut - How and why does an overgrowth of years/candida affect brain chemistry? 

• Numerous food intolerances, including one that you might get from a test result but also to things like histamines, salicylates etc

• Brain fog, fatigue, headaches, memory issues

• Sugar cravings

• Digestive health issues like constipation, diarrhea, reflx, bloating

• Mood issues, depression, anxiety

• Poor immune system, getting sick all the time

• Skin complaints

• Issues with sleeping

• Nutritional deficiencies (low b12, iron etc) or failure to thrive

• Top ones:

  • Probiotic- make sure it has a variety of strains and is a good strength, for example an adult can deal with around 30-40 billion daily. This dose needs to be reached gradually though as it can cause what we call “die off ” otherwise (killing off pathogens too quickly) and this can leave a person not feeling great.
  • Omega 3 oil such as one from fish or algae oil – to reduce inflammation in the gut
  • Digestive enzymes – to assist with breaking down foods so we can absorb more nutrients
  • Betaine HCL with pepsin – to increase stomach acid to kill of pathogens and to boost digestion
  • Glutamine – to heal the gut lining
  • Slippery elm – to help heal the gut lining and reduce inflammation
  • Perhaps botanicals if there are gut pathogens   

How do we recognise organic body washes? What are the chemicals to look for/avoid?

Avoid substances such as sodium lauryle sulphate, fluoride or propylene glycol. Most toothpastes contain these substances as well. Ideally buy organic whenever possible, you can even reduce exposure by using coconut oil as a body moisturizer.

How do Epsom salts, apple cider vinegar, sea salt and seaweed powder work in the bath? What is it about them that detoxifies us?

• Baths are a great way to detox the body, our skin is the largest organ and we are able to absorb nutrients and excrete toxins through it.
• Epsom salts: contain magnesium which many of us are low in, this helps to improve sleep and moods, ease constipation and reduce muscle soreness.
• Seaweed: is an excellent source of minerals such as iodine and helps with dry skin.
• Apple cider vinegar: it will help to normalize the pH of the skin and encourage appropriate skin flora, as well as assisting the detoxification process.

So,  is it right that if we rummage around the earth when we're children, our immune systems will be more robust?

Yes, absolutely! There is a theory called the hygiene hypothesis. 

We have become obsessed with avoiding germs nowadays as we see them all as potentially dangerous, with many people carrying around hand sanitizers wherever they go.

Being exposed to germs and bacteria when we’re younger is a fundamental part of developing our immune systems as it teaches our body to turn down inflammatory responses over time. If we live in an oversantised environment we develop a low threshold for exposure to bacteria and other pathogens.

There is almost 10 times the amount of bacterial cells than human cells in the body and being exposed to different pathogens and microbes as a child enables us to build up our immune system, it’s almost a bit like exercising it to get it stronger so that it matures more quickly. Great ways to do this include playing outside and getting exposed to more bacteria and molds. Also, we don’t need to overly wash veggies form the farmers market, that soil or dirt can actually benefit our gut health.

Maintaining a healthy gut is more than just a trend; it's a vital component of overall wellness that influences everything from your immune system to your mental health. Understanding the importance of gut health, recognizing the signs of imbalance, and making informed dietary choices are key steps toward a healthier, happier you.

If you're experiencing issues like bloating, fatigue, or mood swings, or if you simply want to optimize your digestive health, it might be time for a reset. Our comprehensive Gut Reset program is designed to help you restore balance, boost your energy, and improve your overall well-being.

Try our 14 Day Gut Reset today and take the first step towards a healthier gut and a healthier you. Your body will thank you!