Where is your gut?

The mouth is actually the first part of the gut. When we eat food, it passes down the gullet into the stomach and then into the small intestine. The small intestine is where food is digested and absorbed by the bloodstream.

After that it proceeds into the large intestine, also known as the colon, and the final part of the colon leads on to the rectum, where waste products are stored until they are excreted. Simply put, that is your gastrointestinal tract — and your gut!

Why is good gut health so important?

Research has revealed that gut health is critical to general good health. Studies have also shown that poor gut health contributes to conditions which include diabetes, obesity, rheumatoid arthritis, acne, depression, and impaired sexuality. Many aspects of our lifestyle may directly contribute to an unhealthy gut. Here are some:

• Antibiotics, birth control, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, as well as some other medications.
• Diets high in sugars, refined carbohydrates, and all processed foods, especially those low in fibre.
• Chronic stress and chronic infections.
• Excessive alcohol.
• Heavy smoking.

Symptoms of an unhealthy gut

• Excessive gas and abdominal bloating.
• Heartburn and/or acid reflux.
• Diarrhoea.
• Constipation.
• Lower abdomen pain.
• Sexual problems.

The colon and the bowel are a breeding place for problems that may only be diagnosed once the ailment is advanced. If you have one or more of the above, it could be a sign that your gut health needs urgent attention. Get it checked out by a medical practitioner. The doctor might suggest that you examine your diet, as what you eat may be making your gut health worse. Following a healthy diet can contribute greatly to a healthy gut, and restore your general feeling of well-being.

Foods known to benefit gut health

Experts suggest the following foods will be beneficial:

• Yoghurt, and high-fibre foods such as oats and whole wheat bread.
• Most fruits, like apples and oranges.
• Vegetables such as legumes, and leafy greens like spinach and cabbage.
• Broccoli, asparagus, and onions.
• There are many others, but these are sufficient to start with.

Manage your stress

Try to manage your stress in a responsible way. If you turn to junk food for comfort, it can harm your gut, and may cause the colon to go into a painful spasm because of unresolved events in your life. You can cure yourself of many ailments that negatively affect your daily life. Improving your diet, getting some regular exercise, and developing a more positive mindset when coping with anxiety and stress will do wonders for an unhealthy gut.

We can help

If your sexuality needs a boost, we can help. Herbal Remedies International has taken some natural herbal ingredients, and developed excellent formulas to help combat issues of low libido and related problems. Our products are safe to take and do not need a doctor's script.

Visit us at www.herbalremedies.co.za to view our range of products and the number of issues we cover.

We are here to help you.