Why Is Gut Health So Important? We Explain!

Your gut isn’t just where your food goes!

Your gut is also your second brain. AND it makes up 70 percent of your immune system. It’s also the main producer of all the nutrients that your body needs to function properly. 

That’s why looking after your gut should be high on your list!

Here are some quick facts about your gut:

• It contains around 100 trillion microorganisms - that’s more than the number of stars in the Milky Way! These tiny bacteria act as the “control centre” for many other bodily systems: digestion, mood, immune function, skin health, energy levels, and even brain function. 
• Your gut has its own nervous system, called the enteric nervous system. Certain types of gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters, just like your brain - which is why the gut is also known as ‘the second brain’. 
• Two of the most important probiotic bacteria species in your gut are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. These bacteria work by breaking down the food you eat, supporting your immune function, warding off harmful bacteria - plus much more!
• Alcohol, processed food, excess sugar, and some medications can deplete your good gut bacteria, which can then affect your overall health. 
• Fermented foods like yoghurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and kefir are great for your gut health because they contain probiotics, which support your friendly gut bacteria. 

Let’s break down how your gut contributes to each bodily system, and what you can do to support your gut health. We’ll also give a shoutout to some of our best gut health supplements.

Digestion

When you eat foods that contain fibre - such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts - it’s the bacteria in your large intestine that turn the fibre into useful nutrients. This is done in a process called fermentation. Fermentation produces short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) which have many benefits for your overall health. SCFAs help keep bad gut bacteria at bay while supporting the health of your intestinal cells and gut lining, and also help your body absorb minerals.
A healthy diet is the best way to support healthy digestion. Foods that nourish the gut include those that are rich in amino acids, such as lean protein, fatty fish, and bone broth. Add in some fermented foods and you’ll be well on your way to optimal gut health!
However, there are times when your digestive system could use a little extra support, especially after a gastrointestinal illness or a course of antibiotics.  Nutralife Gut Health contains prebiotics, glutamine, curcumin, and slippery elm to support the integrity of the gut lining as well as healthy digestive function. The prebiotics support the growth and activity of friendly bacteria in the colon, while curcumin supports the liver. 

MELROSE Essential Green Biotic is another great option for supporting gut health. It’s packed with prebiotics and probiotics, along with the vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre of wheatgrass, barley grass, chlorella and spirulina powder. Simply add to your daily smoothie or juice! 

Immune function

The ‘good’  bacteria that live in your large intestine have many jobs besides breaking down food. They also help protect the body from illness by mobilising special immune cells that support the body’s defences. Your gut bacteria are constantly fighting off harmful bacteria and pathogens without you even knowing about it!

Unfortunately, our busy lives can wreak havoc on our gut microbiome, especially if we’re not eating enough fruits and vegetables, or if we’re dealing with constant stress. Medications, alcohol, lack of sleep, and not getting enough exercise can also jeopardize our gut health. This can affect how well the microbiome responds to invading pathogens. 

To do their job properly, these bacteria sometimes need a helping hand. That’s where probiotics come in. Probiotic supplements contain the same types of bacteria as those already in your intestines, which can help them grow and develop.  

Inner Health Digestive Defence contains 50 billion live bacteria of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, two of the most studied species. This high-potency formula supports the balance of good gut bacteria, digestive health, and healthy immune function. 

UltraBLIS Probiotics are a great-tasting probiotic in a lozenge! Designed to support the microbiome of the gut, mouth and throat, UltraBLIS Probiotics contains the specific probiotic strains that reside in the oral cavity and in the intestines, which can help support the body’s defences against ills and chills.

Bowel health

Sluggish or loose bowels can really disrupt your daily life. While the odd bout of digestive trouble is quite normal (especially after a tummy ache or a dodgy meal), constantly struggling with bowel issues could be a sign of poor gut health. 

Regular bowel movements are essential for flushing waste and toxins from the body. A sluggish bowel can lead to potentially harmful substances accumulating in your digestive system, which can then lead to issues like bloating, cramps, and gas. An imbalance of good and bad bacteria can make things even worse. 

Fibre is the key to healthy bowels. Fibre is the tough, indigestible part of plant foods that passes into the large intestine and stimulates a bowel movement. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts are a great source of fibre, but if you’re not getting enough of those, Metamucil MultiHealth Fibercaps can help bump up your fibre intake. The natural psyllium in Metamucil supports the body’s elimination process and helps to keep things moving. 

If you’re finding you can’t “go” at least once a day, Sanderson Colon Cleanse FX could be an option. It’s an easy daily supplement that contains fibre to support healthy bowel function and regularity, plus a blend of gentle herbs and nutrients to support healthy digestion. 

Put the right stuff into your gut and you’ll feel better from the inside out. Good food, probiotics, and daily fibre will go a long way! For extra support, just check out the Gut Health range at Bargain Chemist. 

Remember, if you do experience constant gut trouble despite eating a healthy diet, it may be time to see your doctor. 

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist see your healthcare professional.