· By Daniela Casale
6 Signs of an Unhealthy Gut and How to Improve It
There is nothing like being healthy and feeling your best. Arguably, health is the most important thing we can have and a happy gut is extremely important for our overall health, even more than you may think.
Modern life has come with astonishing benefits and improvements, but also with many facets that actually harm our gut-health. Stress levels, too little sleep, eating processed and high-sugar foods, and taking antibiotics can all damage our gut microbiome.
Why is gut-health so incredibly important?
Because, all these factors may affect other aspects of our health, such as the brain, heart, immune system, skin, weight, hormone levels, ability to absorb nutrients, and even the development of cancer.
This is why we want to make sure you can detect if you have an unhealthy gut and of course, some tips on how to improve it; because, a healthy gut equals a happy life.
6 signs to be aware of
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Disturbances in your stomach
Feeling gassy, bloated, constipated are signs that your gut is experiencing some trouble. Don't ignore these disturbances! Also, diarrhea, and heartburn can be signs of an unhappy gut.
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Sleep disturbances
Did you know that the majority of the body's serotonin, our hormone that affects mood and sleep, is produced in the gut? Insomnia and poor sleep is no coincidence if you have an unhealthy gut. Sleep disturbances can be a sign of problems in your digestive system, this can be very alarming because it can lead to chronic fatigue. Keep that gut happy in order to have a good night's sleep.
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A high-sugar diet
All of us should love good bacteria. How do we take care of them? By reducing the amount of processed food and added sugars in our diet. Constantly craving a bar of chocolate in the middle of the afternoon? Well, that means there is an imbalance of good bacteria in your body. According to The Health Lines, “high amounts of refined sugars, particularly high-fructose corn syrup, have been linked to increased inflammation in the body. Inflammation can be the precursor to a number of diseases and even cancers.”
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Unintentional weight changes
Are you noticing that you have been experiencing some weird-unexplained weight changes without actually any diet or exercise? An unhealthy gut loses the ability to absorb nutrients, regulate blood sugar, and store fat. So, be aware of these changes in your body and make sure to drink one bottle of Waku a day to keep that gut healthy.
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Not so glowy skin
How our skin looks and the overall health of our skin is directly linked to our gut-health. Inflammation in the gut caused by a poor diet may cause irritated skin, eczema, acné and other skin problems.
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A weak immune system
The gut has an enormous impact on the immune system. It’s thought that an unhealthy gut may increase systemic inflammation and alter the proper functioning of the immune system. This can lead to autoimmune diseases, where the body attacks itself rather than harmful invaders.
What can you do for your gut?
Sleep like a baby
Start by getting enough sleep and create healthy habits before going to bed to ensure a good night sleep. Try to get at least 7–8 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night. Don't watch your phone right before closing your eyes, it may make it harder for you to rest.
Do fun stress-free things
You need to get those stress levels down. Meditate, walk, hang out with friends, get into essential oils, decrease your caffeine intake, laugh, do yoga or adopt a pet. All these things will help you out a lot!
Eat slowly
Be mindful when you eat. Think of your food, think of all the nutrients you are receiving in each bite and please, chew your food slowly. Doing this will help with your digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential in order to have a happy gut. How to stay hydrated, you say? Well of course drink plenty of water throughout the day, but also throw in a bottle of Waku and you'll see how any gut problems will vanish.
Remember you guys, a bottle of Waku a day keeps the doctor away.
References:
What’s an Unhealthy Gut? How Gut Health Affects You
How To Improve Your Gut Health