5 Ways to Improve Gut Health 

Gut health refers to maintaining a balance of trillions of microorganisms like bacteria, yeasts, and viruses also known as ‘gut microbiome’ or ‘gut flora’, that live in our digestive tracts. Maintaining the right balance of these microorganisms plays an important role in our physical and mental health as well as immunity. Here are some ways you can do so: 

1. Taking Probiotics or Eating Fermented Foods

Probiotics boost the beneficial bacteria in the gut. Research suggests it also maintains a healthy gut microbiome and prevents gut inflammation and other intestinal problems. You can also include fermented foods like kimchi, idli, dosa, and yoghurt, in your diet which are a natural source of probiotics. 

2. Get Some Sleep 

Research shows irregular sleep habits and disturbed sleep can lead to a range of health-related issues, including negative effects on our gut flora and might even increase the risk of inflammatory conditions. 

3. Exercise 

Regular exercise contributes to good heart health and weight maintenance which in turn may also improve gut health. A regular workout can also increase species diversity in your gut. 

4. Reduce Stress 

Reducing or managing stress is said to be one of the most important aspects of health, including gut health. Studies have suggested that even short-lived psychological stressors can disrupt the microorganisms in the intestines.

5. Try Opting for a Vegetarian Diet 

Researchers have found a significant difference between the gut microbiomes of vegetarians and those who eat meat. A vegetarian diet may improve gut health since it has high levels of prebiotic fibre.