Have you ever thought about how your gut affects your health?
We know that it is related to our digestive health, but that’s not the whole picture. The health of your gut is an integral part of your overall wellbeing. Many people are now realising how important gut health is for our well-being.
Our stomach contains trillions of microbes, mostly bacteria, that make up the gut microbiota. This system doesn’t just help with digestion: it also plays a vital role in absorbing nutrients, supporting our immune system, and even influencing our moods.
By taking care of our insides, we’re not only supporting digestion but also promoting overall health. Research indicates that better health could be linked to a rich diversity of bacteria. Just as a diverse ecosystem supports a thriving habitat, a diverse gut microbiota can enhance overall health, much like a vibrant rainforest with its varied ecosystem.
From the fascinating gut-brain axis to the close connection it has with our skin, let’s explore the different aspects of gut health and how they contribute to our wellness.
The Brain-Intestinal Axis
The gut-brain axis underscores the intricate communication between your stomach and your brain. Disruption along this axis has been linked to conditions like stress, depression, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases. And, importantly, it is a two-way street. Your gut and your brain communicate with each other in a few different ways!
Exploring the close link between the two, called the gut-brain axis, is an exciting area of mental health research, studied by scientists worldwide. Researchers at University College Cork’s APC Microbiome Ireland research centre have been investigating how the gut has a strong impact on our mood and emphasise that taking care of your gut through diet and lifestyle changes can improve mental well-being.
Another study published in 2020 showcased that embracing the Mediterranean diet for just one year led to changes in the microbiome of elderly individuals. This dietary change benefitted brain function and helped promote healthy ageing. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between the gut and the brain.
elénzia ENHANCE™ is specially formulated to improve brain health and focus for a clear mind. It contains a unique combination of nutrients vital for cognitive function, including six essential B vitamins, with added fibre for a synergistic effect to support the gut-brain axis.
The Relationship with Our Immune System
Around 70% of your immune system resides in your stomach, coexisting with your microbiome. This highlights the vital role your gut serves in supporting immune function. Nurturing a diverse and healthy microbiome enhances your defence against viruses and reduces the risk of respiratory infections.
elénzia IMMUNITY™ is clinically proven to reduce the return of cold and flu illness by 45%, and significantly reduce overall illness severity by 80%. And provides 4.5g of fibre per sachet, helping you to meet your daily fibre intake. Adults in the UK are recommended to consume 30g of fibre each day but on average only consume about 18g.
The Gut-Skin Axis
Your skin’s health is closely intertwined with the health of your gut – enter the gut-skin axis. Emerging research is unveiling how imbalances in the microbiome can manifest as inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea.
Prioritising gut health and promoting a diverse microbiota through a diet rich in plant-based foods, fermented foods, and adequate fibre may contribute to healthier, glowing skin. While the research on the gut-skin axis is still in its early stages, there is growing evidence suggesting that maintaining a diverse microbiota through a healthy diet and lifestyle may contribute to healthier, glowing skin.
elénzia SKIN™ is our all-in-one ingestible approach to skin health. It also provides 4.5g of fibre per sachet, further contributing to achieving adequate fibre intake, and helping you reach that recommended 30g a day.
Prioritising Wellness
Here are some tips to enhance gut health and support overall well-being:
Embrace a Plant-Powered Diet: Fill your plate with a colourful array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds to provide essential nutrients and fibre for your microbes.
Feast on Fermented Foods: Kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are packed with beneficial bacteria that can enhance your microbiota’s diversity.
Prioritise Fibre: Dietary fibre acts as a fuel for your microbes, promoting their growth and diversity. Opt for whole grains, vegetables, and legumes.
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity promotes healthy digestion. Also, regular physical activity helps to reduce stress, which can also have a positive effect on gut health. Interestingly, research has found that elite athletes have noticeably more diverse gut bacteria. Being ‘elite’ isn’t necessary though as moderate exercise can have an impact.
Manage Stress: Engage in stress-relieving activities like exercise, meditation, yoga, and deep breathing.
Quality Sleep: Make sleep a priority by establishing a relaxing bedtime routine. A consistent sleep schedule supports brain health, metabolism, mood, and gut health (and vice-versa, notably, a healthy gut helps support restorative sleep).
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports optimal digestion and the movement of food through your intestines.
Unlocking The Gut-Wellness Connection
As our understanding of the gut-wellness connection deepens, the importance of nurturing your overall health becomes undeniable. From a fortified immune system to improved mental well-being and radiant skin. By adopting a gut-friendly lifestyle, you enhance your inner wellness. By nurturing your gut through mindful dietary and lifestyle choices, you embark on a journey towards holistic wellness.
At elénzia, we’re committed to supporting your health journey. Join us in embracing the vitality that comes from a nurtured gut.
Discover all our products that support your gut health here.