8 Everyday Gut Health Habits That Actually Work

So, just imagine starting your day with energy that lasts, a stomach that isn’t waging war on you, and a mind that feels sharp instead of sluggish. Now, all of this sounds ideal, right? What if the secret to making that your reality is sitting quietly in your gut? Now, everyone should be doing what they can to have optimal gut health, but honestly, the average person doesn’t (and they don’t understand the sheer importance either).

Your gut isn’t just breaking down last night’s dinner, it’s calling the shots on how you feel every single day. Seriously, it is, right from your energy levels and mood to how your immune system performs, your gut is pulling more strings than you might realize. And when it’s not happy? Oh, you’ll know, there’s no hiding it.

So, a lot of people just don’t understand how or why it impacts their bodies as much as it does. But what can you do to make some changes? Well, here’s exactly what you need to know!

Drink More Water

If your gut had a love language, it would be water. Well, it would technically be your whole body. So, it’s hydration that keeps your digestive system humming along smoothly and prevents awkward bloating and constipation. So, starting your day with a big glass of water is like hitting the reset button for your gut.

But water doesn’t just help things flow (literally). It also supports the lining of your gut, which acts as a barrier to keep toxins out and let nutrients in. It’s a small habit that packs a big punch, and it’s so easy to incorporate into your day.

Feed Your Gut Some Fiber

Now, this might sound a bit weird, but fiber is like your gut’s personal cheerleader, seriously, it is! So, it keeps everything moving and supports the good bacteria that live there. Plus, it’s found in fruits, veggies, whole grains, and beans, fiber is essential for a gut that’s happy and healthy. But of course there are those fiber bars you can eat too.

You can pretty much think of fiber as the fuel your gut bacteria need to do their thing. When you’re eating enough of it, digestion feels smoother, bloating becomes less of a drama, and your gut can focus on keeping you feeling good.

Bring on the Fermented Foods

Oh yes, these have to be mentioned, while they’re timeless and trendy at the same time (well, depending on the food of course), they definitely deserve some attention. So, fermented foods are packed with probiotics, they bring good bacteria to your digestive system, helping it stay balanced and thriving (which is also why most fermented food tend to be so trendy too).

So, you have things like yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kefir (as examples), and these are some gut-friendly options to add to your meals. Even a little bit of fermented food every day can make a noticeable difference in how your gut, and the rest of your body, feel. 

Now, there are some countries where fermented foods are super heavy in the culture, like Japanese and Korean cuisine for example. So if you’re a fan of these types of cuisines, well, you could incorporate it more into your diet (and it becomes a lot easier too).

Choose Gut-Healthy Drinks

So, fermented foods were one thing that was mentioned earlier, but it’s not really the only option either. Actually, what you drink can make or break your gut. Sugary sodas? Well, your gut is not a fan. But gut healthy drinks like kombucha, kefir, or ginger-infused water? Well, your gut will be pretty happy about it. Seriously, it’s in your best interest to drop that sugary sofa and switch to something gut-friendly, even just more water in your diet helps too.

Sleep is Your Gut’s Best Friend

Believe it or not, your gut doesn’t get a break when you’re asleep, but it needs that downtime just as much as you do. Poor sleep can throw off the balance of bacteria in your gut, leading to slower digestion and inflammation.

But prioritizing quality sleep, like sticking to a regular bedtime, cutting back on screen time before bed, and keeping your room dark and cool, gives your gut a chance to recover and regulate itself. Sure, while these might sound like a big list of demands, all of them truly do make such a big impact! Besides, better sleep means a happier gut and a happier gut means better sleep.

Get Moving

Did you know that exercise is great for your gut, too? Well, not just for shrinking it, but it’s actually good for the insides! So, physical activity stimulates your digestive system, helping food move through smoothly and reducing the chances of bloating.

Even something as simple as a 10-minute walk after meals can give your gut the support it needs. That’s actually why it’s so encouraged to move around twenty to thirty minutes after eating, it’s so digestion can move a bit fast. But overall, it’s a small habit that’s easy to stick to and makes a noticeable difference in how you feel.

Cut Back on Processed Foods

Yes, this one just can’t be stressed enough in all honesty! So, processed foods are like that toxic friend you’ve been meaning to cut off, while sure, they might seem harmless at first, but over time, they’re doing more harm than good. Yes, they taste good, but that’s as far as it goes. So, these are high in sugar and unhealthy fats, processed foods disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut.

Now, you probably already know this, but switching to whole, nutrient-rich foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats gives your gut the tools it needs to thrive. It’s a simple way to support your gut and, as a bonus, the rest of your body.

Stress and Your Gut

Have you ever noticed how your stomach acts up when you’re stressed? That’s because your gut and brain are in constant communication, and stress messes with that balance. Seriosuly, this is entirely true!

So, when you’re stressed, your gut can respond with cramps, bloating, or worse. So, it’s honestly best to just start taking time to manage stress, such as through breathing exercises, meditation, or even just stepping outside for a breather, as it can help calm your gut and keep it working as it should.

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ABOUT AUTHOR
Eighty Mph Mom
Lyric Spencer

I’m all about sharing great products, recipes, home decor, and parenting hacks for busy moms.

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