Christmas is a time of joy, love, and giving. It isn’t, however, the best time for your gut. Many of the festive indulgences that we love to enjoy during the holiday season (namely sweet and fatty treats) can wreak havoc on your gut health.
We’re here to help. You can still make the most of Christmas cheer while protecting your gut with these simple tricks: (more…)
Laxatives are a common type of medication used for constipation. They work by softening stools and/or stimulating bowel movements. Since most laxatives are available over-the-counter, some people use them often for convenient relief from constipation.
While laxatives are widely considered safe, they’re not intended for frequent or long-term use. There are several possible dangers of laxative misuse, including an increased risk of dementia, according to a new study from UK Biobank. (more…)
Cravings are often thought of as unhealthy, as they tend to be for fatty, sugary, or salty foods. However, cravings can be your body’s way of communicating what it needs. By understanding the different types of food cravings and how they work, you can take control of your health and even improve your nutrition.
In this article, we’ll help you decode common food cravings and how to manage them. (more…)
With IBS, carefully avoiding potential triggers can help you steer clear of stomach pain, cramping, bloating, gas, and other uncomfortable symptoms. From coffee to fried foods to dairy products, there are several IBS triggers to keep in mind. But, is alcohol one of them?
In short, yes! Alcohol is a major IBS trigger, gastrointestinal irritant, and potential colon carcinogen. It can cause GI discomfort in anyone but is particularly harmful to people with IBS. (more…)
Candida is a form of yeast. It’s naturally found in small amounts in some areas of the body, including the belly and mouth, as well as the vaginal tract in some women. But, when candida growth exceeds the normal amount, it can lead to a fungal infection.
Understanding the possible symptoms of candida overgrowth is key to receiving treatment early before the infection grows. Six key symptoms of candida overgrowth are: (more…)
The health of your gastrointestinal system can impact many aspects of your overall well-being, including your skin, immunity, and mental wellness. But, in taking a closer look at your gastrointestinal health, we can gather invaluable insight into your body’s overall condition. More specifically, your bowel movements can offer important clues about how well your body is functioning.
In Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medical system, gut health is considered imperative to optimal well-being, and bowel movements are a key indicator of one’s physical, mental, and emotional health. This article will discuss how the doshas in Ayurveda can help us understand normal bowel movements for each individual. (more…)
These days, consumers are more aware of harmful substances in commercial products than ever. From cleaners to toiletries and even food, consumers’ growing demand for non-toxic products is leading to safer, healthier goods.
But, we’re yet to discover all the toxic substances in commercial products, as we learned from a recent study from the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF). The results of this study revealed that commercial dishwashers could be sabotaging your gut health even before you fill your plate with nutritious, gut-loving foods. (more…)
If you’re looking to improve your gut health, take a closer look at the food on your plate. Diet plays a crucial role in many different bodily functions, including that of your gastrointestinal system.
You can take a shortcut to a healthier, happier gut with a range of superfoods. These are nutritious powerhouses that naturally support your gut function and ward off gastrointestinal distress.
Our go-to gut health superfoods include: (more…)
Alcohol is a common vice, often used to mark special occasions or complement a meal. However, there are several reasons to limit your alcohol intake, including the risk of liver damage, high blood pressure, and even certain cancers. But, many people don’t realize that alcohol can also compromise your gut health.
According to a study published in 2017, consuming alcohol in excess can lead to gut inflammation by affecting three important components of gut health: the gut microbiome, immunity, and intestinal permeability. (more…)
The human digestive system is complex, and several factors are crucial to its ability to function. Many people don’t know that one of these factors is an occasionally empty stomach.
That’s right: Your gut needs a periodic break from food to function at its best. This is called FASTING. In this blog, we’ll explain why and provide strategies for greater digestive health.
So, why exactly does your gut need a break from food for optimal function? The answer comes down to the migrating motor complex or MMC. It’s a cyclic pattern of contractions that takes place in your stomach and small intestine. (more…)
