Gut Health & Digestion
Your gut does far more than digest food — it's home to 70% of your immune system, produces most of your serotonin, and communicates directly with your brain. When your gut is unhealthy, everything else suffers.
Struggling with digestive issues?
Our AI can help identify potential root causes.
Why Gut Health Matters for Everything
The gut is often called the "second brain" — and for good reason. Its influence extends throughout your body:
Mental Health
95% of serotonin is produced in the gut. Poor gut health is linked to anxiety and depression.
Immune Function
70-80% of immune cells reside in the gut. A healthy microbiome is essential for immune balance.
Nutrient Absorption
Even the best diet won't help if your gut can't properly absorb nutrients.
Inflammation Control
An unhealthy gut can trigger systemic inflammation affecting joints, skin, and more.
Signs Your Gut Needs Attention
Obvious Digestive Symptoms
Less Obvious Signs
Common Gut Issues Explained
Leaky Gut (Intestinal Permeability)
The gut lining should act as a selective barrier — letting nutrients in while keeping harmful substances out. When compromised, particles "leak" into the bloodstream, triggering immune responses.
Common causes:
Dysbiosis (Microbial Imbalance)
Your gut houses trillions of bacteria — the microbiome. When the balance tips toward harmful bacteria over beneficial ones, it can cause digestive symptoms, inflammation, and affect everything from mood to immune function.
SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)
Bacteria that should be in the large intestine migrate to the small intestine, causing bloating (especially after eating), gas, and nutrient malabsorption. SIBO is increasingly recognized as an underlying cause of IBS symptoms.
The 5R Gut Healing Protocol
Remove
Eliminate triggers: processed foods, sugar, alcohol, potential food sensitivities, and any infections or overgrowths.
Replace
Add back what's needed for proper digestion: digestive enzymes, stomach acid support (if needed), bile support.
Reinoculate
Restore beneficial bacteria with probiotics and prebiotic foods that feed good bacteria.
Repair
Support gut lining repair with nutrients like L-glutamine, zinc, omega-3s, and collagen.
Rebalance
Address lifestyle factors: stress management, sleep, movement, and mindful eating.
Foods for Gut Health
Fermented Foods
Sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, yogurt, kombucha
Prebiotic Fibers
Garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas
Bone Broth
Rich in collagen, glutamine, and minerals
Omega-3 Rich
Wild salmon, sardines, flaxseed, walnuts
Polyphenols
Berries, green tea, dark chocolate, olive oil
Fiber-Rich Veggies
Leafy greens, broccoli, artichokes
Foods to Minimize
When to Seek Testing
If symptoms persist despite dietary changes, consider functional testing. Options include comprehensive stool analysis, SIBO breath testing, food sensitivity panels, and intestinal permeability tests. A holistic practitioner can help determine what's appropriate for you.
Lifestyle Factors for Gut Health
Manage Stress
Chronic stress directly damages gut lining and alters microbiome composition. Prioritize daily stress-reduction practices.
Chew Thoroughly
Digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing well reduces burden on your stomach and improves nutrient absorption.
Eat Mindfully
Eating while stressed or distracted impairs digestion. Take time to sit, relax, and focus on your meal.
Stay Hydrated
Water is essential for digestion and helps fiber do its job. Aim for half your body weight in ounces.
Move Regularly
Exercise supports healthy gut motility and microbiome diversity. Even walking helps.
Ready to Heal Your Gut?
Our AI can help you understand your digestive symptoms and create a personalized gut-healing plan. Start your free consultation now.
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