If you’re finding yourself getting sick more often, feeling bloated and experiencing irregular bowel movements, it may be your gut signalling that it needs attention. The gut is strongly connected to the immune system, so when you’re experiencing digestive disruption, you may notice it takes a toll on your body’s defence system.

While it’s troublesome to feel under the weather, poor gut health can also affect your long-term health if not properly cared for. Let’s talk about the workings of the gut and how we can support it through simple daily habits.

A look inside the gut.

Did you know that trillions of bacteria live in the gut? Don’t worry, we mean the good kind. The gut makes up over 70% of the immune system that protects us from harmful invaders, creating what’s known as a gut-immune axis. Housing different types of bacteria, fungi and viruses, the gut forms a microbiome that teaches your immune cells how to fight off the threats that enter your body.

But when the gut is out of balance, it can weaken the body’s ability to defend itself. Processed foods, high consumption of alcohol and overeating are all factors that can contribute to poor gut health. While it’s important to treat yourself from time to time, remember that moderation is key.

Daily tips to support a healthy gut.

Keep your stress levels down to a minimum.

The gut lining contains nerve cells that allow the gut and brain to communicate with each other. These cells can be impacted by hormones that are produced when we experience certain emotions related to stress. In instances of chronic stress, an excess of these hormones can influence the signals that the brain receives and disrupt the gut-immune connection. Take time to wind down by taking a warm bath, going for a walk, or practicing your self-care routine.

Prioritize a good night’s sleep every night.

When you sleep at night, it’s your body’s chance to rest and recover. This includes regulating the bacteria in your gut and strengthening your immune response. Ensuring you get 7-9 hours of sleep every night allows your body time to finish its nightly repair processes.

Fill your plate with the nutrients your gut loves.

Nourishing your gut with the right nutrients gives it the strength to maintain your body’s line of defence. Fruits and vegetables are rich in fibre, which provides nutrients that feed the healthy bacteria in your gut. To support both the gut and the immune system, try incorporating zinc-rich foods into your diet. This mineral not only strengthens the lining of your gut to keep harmful bacteria from entering, but it also activates your immune cells.

And last but not least, probiotics. We often hear that fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut are good for us, and that’s because they’re rich in the type of bacteria that keeps the gut thriving to support a healthy immune function.

If you’re having difficulty getting your daily fill of probiotics from diet alone, probiotic supplements are a great way to bridge the gap. CanPrev’s Pro-Biotik 50B Extra Strength is formulated with 14 probiotic strains and 20mg of vitamin C to support the gut and the immune system. These capsules are shelf-stable, easy to take on-the-go and only need to be taken once a day. With a majority of our immune system residing inside the gut, gut health is not one to be overlooked. By keeping our stress and sleep in check and focusing on a nutritious diet, we’re able to feel our best every day without being slowed down. Just a few simple daily habits to lead the way towards a flourishing gut!