The Truth About Good Gut Health

Scroll through any social media site and you will soon come across a post with the latest fitness and wellbeing advice. With modern day living taking its toll on our bodies, gut health has been high on the agenda in recent months. Online users are sharing their ‘miracle cures’ for bloating, trapped wind, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other ailments – but are they too good to be true?

Why Is Good Gut Health Important?

Gut health refers to the gastrointestinal tract (bowel) and the digestive system. It contains trillions of microbes that help to turn food into fuel, produce vital vitamins and hormones, and aid our overall health. But to work correctly, the gut needs to be balanced; changes to bacteria, permeability and its microbiome can cause unpleasant symptoms.

An imbalance in gut health can impact everything from our immune system and mental health to an increased risk of endocrine disorders, autoimmunity problems, cardiovascular diseases and even cancer. Bad gut health has a lot to do with our modern lifestyles – high stress, poor sleep, too much fat and sugar and taking antibiotics can all have a negative impact on our gut and general health.

The Myths Behind A Healthy Gut

1. Take Probiotics. From yoghurt drinks to daily shots of apple cider vinegar, probiotics are often seen as a cure for digestive issues. But while some of these products can improve gut health, ‘good bacteria’ can be found in a variety of foods, not just probiotics. A diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and wholegrains is just as helpful.
2. Stop Snacking. It’s claimed that eating regularly forces the stomach to keep working and causes digestive issues. However, the gut is designed to digest food no matter when or what you eat. For some, snacks can help to regulate blood sugar levels, while for others having time between meals can aid digestion. Choose what works best for you.
3. Go Gluten-Free. Often touted as a remedy to digestive complaints such as IBS, gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular. But unless you’ve been tested as allergic to gluten, there is no need to eliminate it. In fact, doing so can lead to a poorer diet, increased sugar intake, and missing out on important vitamins and minerals.

Where Can I Get a Gut Health Check?

If you suffer from bloating, wind, stomach upsets and other digestive issues, it could be a sign of gut imbalance. Having a comprehensive gut health analysis completed by a professional can reveal what the problem is and find possible remedies without having to rely on exaggerated social media myths.

At Omniya, we offer a Gut Health Analysis package that involves two stool tests to analyse your gut microbiome. After identifying any issues with parasites, permeability, infections and inflammation, we’ll provide a detailed consultation then devise a bespoke treatment plan for your specific needs.You can find more information on our website or get in touch with us for details.