What Is Gut Health? Why it is important for Immune System and Hormones? Explained

Imbalance in gut health can cause major issues in the overall  health of the human being. From poor aptitude, weak physical strength to Mental-health related issues, poor Gut can impact a lot. Healthy digestion is essential for a healthy mind so in this special conversation with Dr Rakesh Patel from Fortis Hospital, we got more inside on Gut Health.  

What is Gut?

Well, Gut is the gastrointestinal (GI) system which includes the digestive system and intestinal tract. The gastrointestinal tract is the tract or passageway of the digestive system that leads from the mouth to the anus. Gut health is generally determined by the levels and types of bacteria in the system.

What is Gut Health?

Gut health is the health of our gastrointestinal tract. Both of its physical state and physiologic functions. 

Importance of Gut Health for Overall well-being 

A healthy Gut possesses  healthy bacteria and immune cells which helps in kicking off  infectious agents like bacteria, viruses and fungi. It is also connected to brains and communicates through nerves and hormones to maintain overall well-being. 

Why is Gut Health Important? 

80% of our immune system and majority of the body's serotonin is situated in Gut. So Gut has the responsibility of deploying the soldiers in the body who keep viruses and bacteria away and keep our body healthy. So if one has poor Gut health then the body's immune system is at risk and the immune system and hormones will not function. 

Signs and Symptoms of Ill Gut Health

Here are some Warning signs and symptoms of an unhealthy gut- 

• Frequently experiencing an upset stomach. 

• Feeling tired more often. 

• Trouble sleeping in general. 

• Intolerant to some foods.

• Get extreme food cravings, especially if something sweet or sugar. 

• Experience unintentional weight gain or loss.

• Having skin irritations.

Tips for Healthy Gut

Here are some tips which will keep your Gut Health on point. 

• Exercise Daily.

• Eat a healthy and nutritional rich diet.

• Eat  in small intervals so that you don't overwhelm your GI tract.

• Chew your food to make it easy to digest and dissolve in the digestive tract. 

• Manage your stress levels. Do meditation. 

• Take or eat probiotics or eat Curd and Dahi for good bacterias. 

• Eat more fiber rich food including salads. 

• Drink plenty of water.

• Limit alcohol and caffeine and spicy food. 

• Get a checkup at least once a year or if you feel discomfort.