Gut health has become a hot topic in wellness, but what does it really mean for your long-term health? Dr. Joseph Salhab, a board-certified gastroenterologist, shares his expert insights on how to support gut health without gimmicks or fad diets.
Dr. Salhab emphasizes that gut health is “foundational to our entire body’s well-being.” The gut plays a crucial role in immunity, metabolism, and even brain function. Around 70% of the immune system lives in the gut, and an imbalance can affect mood, leading to conditions like anxiety and depression.
Poor gut health has also been linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune conditions, and some cancers. Dr. Salhab says that fixing your gut is like fixing the foundation of your house – once it’s stable, everything else works better.
So, what can you do? Start by making small changes. Cooking at home gives you control over ingredients and helps support your gut. Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your meals to feed beneficial bacteria. Aim for 25-35 grams of fiber daily from sources like beans, vegetables, whole grains, and fruit.
Probiotics are also essential. Naturally fermented foods like yogurt with live cultures, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and kombucha can help replenish good bacteria. Stress and lack of sleep can flare up symptoms like bloating and constipation, so managing stress better and getting consistent sleep is crucial.
Dr. Salhab also recommends starting small, making simple changes that you can stick with over time. This might mean adding one more meal cooked at home each week or boosting your fiber intake. The key is to take progress, not perfection, and make choices that support your gut health.
By prioritizing gut health, you can build a foundation for better digestion and overall well-being. Remember, it’s all about making small, consistent changes that add up over time.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/gut-doctor-strengthen-digestion-and-support-long-term-health