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| What is Gut Health & Microbiome |
🧬 What is Gut Health & Microbiome?
🌿 Gut Health:
Gut health refers to the balance and function of the digestive system, particularly the stomach, intestines, and colon. A healthy gut efficiently digests food, absorbs nutrients, and eliminates waste, while also protecting the body from harmful bacteria and supporting the immune system.
🧫 Gut Microbiome:
The gut microbiome is the community of trillions of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses, etc.) that live inside our intestines. These microbes play a vital role in:
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Digestion
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Immune function
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Mental health
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Weight regulation
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Inflammation control
🔬 Key Facts:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Trillions of Microbes | Mostly bacteria (like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) |
| Unique to You | Every person has a unique gut microbiome (like a fingerprint) |
| Starts at Birth | Influenced by birth, diet, environment, antibiotics, etc. |
🍎 Signs of Good Gut Health:
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Regular bowel movements
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No bloating or gas
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Strong immunity
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Good energy levels
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Positive mood
❗Signs of Poor Gut Health:
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Constipation/diarrhea
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Gas, bloating, acid reflux
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Food intolerances
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Frequent infections
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Mood swings, anxiety
✅ How to Improve Gut Health:
| Habit | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Eat Fiber-Rich Foods | Supports good bacteria (e.g., fruits, vegetables, whole grains) |
| Fermented Foods | Add beneficial probiotics (e.g., yogurt, kimchi, idli, dosa, kanji) |
| Prebiotics | Feed good bacteria (e.g., garlic, onion, bananas) |
| Stay Hydrated | Aids digestion |
| Avoid Excess Antibiotics | Prevents killing good microbes |
| Sleep & Exercise | Helps gut-brain balance |
🧠 Gut-Brain Connection:
The gut is often called the "second brain" because it communicates with the brain through the gut-brain axis. Poor gut health can lead to issues like anxiety, depression, and brain fog.
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