Can you heal your gut? Why healing the gut may not be as simple as it sounds

A young woman wearing black glasses is sitting on a sofa with her hands on her tummy
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Key points

  • Good gut health is central to our overall health.
  • Eating specific foods or taking certain supplements may assist in improving gut health.
  • What you eat, antibiotics, your age and the environment can impact gut health.

Microbiome. Prebiotics. Probiotics. Flora. These are so much more than wellness buzzwords.

We now know that gut health is central to our overall health and wellbeing. And, with an increasing amount of research showing that our gut microbiome can affect every organ in our body, the issue of gut health – and whether healing the gut is possible – is an important one.

Here, we speak with Naturopath, Gabbie Watt about all things gut-related.

How to improve gut health naturally

Research around gut health is still evolving, but we know that the type and amount of diversity of bugs (or microorganisms) living in our gut is a good marker for gut health. We also know that feeding the microorganisms with wholesome and nutritious foods improves that diversity. The more good bugs, the better. 

Gabbie says healing the gut can be different for everybody, given that your gut microbiome is as unique as your fingerprint. 

“For this reason, there may be a wide and varied definition of a healthy gut microbiome, which can be translated to a varied definition of an unhealthy gut,” Gabbie explains.  “There are also a multitude of varied gastrointestinal diseases or conditions that may or may not have treatment or long-term solutions.”

That said, certain nutrients can help improve gut health naturally. 

These include: 

  • L-Glutamine may support the microbiome, gut mucosal wall integrity and reduce inflammatory responses. You’ll find this amino acid in foods containing plant and animal protein, such as dairy, beef and eggs. Or, try taking a supplement. 
  • Polyphenols, found in apples, berries, tea and cacao, may have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect and feed the gut bacteria.
  • Vitamin D helps keep the good gut bacteria balanced and helps to maintain the protective barrier of our gut lining.
  • Curcumin, derived from turmeric, is an anti-inflammatory that can support the health of the intestinal lining. Try adding turmeric powder to your curries, soups or smoothies.
  • Omega-3 has anti-inflammatory effects and produces short-chain fatty acids that may benefit gut health. You’ll find it in fish, nuts and seeds. Not a fan of seafood? Try fish oil tablets or capsules for easy consumption.

Supporting your gut health with probiotics and prebiotics may also be helpful.  

A young woman is lying on a sofa clutching her tummy as if she has gut pain

Diet, antibiotics, age and even the environment can affect gut health

When healing the gut, what signs of gut dysbiosis should you be aware of?  

You may have heard of gut dysbiosis, but what exactly is it? Dysbiosis is the process of microbiota changes, which results in a loss of beneficial microbiota or an overgrowth of harmful microbiota.

While symptoms like bloating, mild constipation, loose stools or flatulence are all common occurrences, Gabbie says these signs don’t necessarily mean your gut is unhealthy. “It is when these signs and symptoms persist for a longer period that it may be a sign you need to take steps to support your gut health,” she shares. 

What you eat, antibiotics, age and even the environment can impact the gut microbiome. So, any change in these factors may impact your gut health. 

A young man with a dark complexion is sitting on a sofa smiling and holding his belly

Bloating after every meal may be a sign of poor gut health

3 common myths and misconceptions about healing the gut

On the path to a healthier gut, and not sure what’s fact or fiction? Read on.

1. I’ll just pop a probiotic – it’s a quick fix 

Wrong. Improving gut health takes a multi-pronged approach. Of course, probiotics can play an important part in that approach. Research shows that single strains targeting specific conditions may be more effective than multi-strain probiotics. 

2. FODMAP: sign me up!

If you’re thinking the low-FODMAP diet will solve all your gut health issues, think again. This diet is intended as a short-term diet for people with medically diagnosed IBS to discover which foods may be triggering discomfort. It’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting any diet.

3. Bloating after every meal is normal – I’ll just loosen my pants!

Feel bloated after every meal? Even if you have experienced it all your life, bloating is not a sign of good gut wellbeing – consider having it investigated further by a healthcare professional.

Two young women are smiling and cuddling on a sofa

Healing the gut has the potential to improve overall health, so it’s worth taking the time to investigate any issues

Working towards better gut health

While healing the gut has the potential to improve overall health, it’s not a straightforward concept given the complexities of gut health. If you have gut health concerns, visit your healthcare professional for advice. 

Related:

Gabbie Watt is a Naturopath and is passionate about blending evidence-based practice and traditional natural medicine into her approach. With experience previously working as a Radiation Therapist, Gabbie’s professional background in conventional medicine has been instrumental in shaping her holistic approach to health.

Reviewed by Healthylife health experts October 2023

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should consult with a health professional.