Happier Gut... Happier, Healthier, and Slimmer You

Have you heard this phrase: "Happy Gut, Happy Mood?"

I recently read an article about the best dopamine supplements to boost your mood. If you don't know, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that acts as a mood enhancer, making you feel good.

And guess what?

Probiotics were listed as one of the best natural dopamine supplements.

And did you know... besides unlocking a happier you, your gut is the key to a healthier and slimmer you? Your gut health is vital in regulating your mood, energy levels, weight management, and overall well-being.

Why Your Gut Health Matters More Than You Think

Your gut houses a complex community of microorganisms that affect far more than just your digestive health. This microbiome influences everything from your mental health and immune system to your metabolic processes and weight management.

Keeping this internal ecosystem balanced and thriving is essential for your overall well-being.

Even if you are not suffering from obvious digestive issues, that doesn’t mean your gut can’t do with a little tune up.

Strategies to enhance gut health for weight loss and improved mood:

Integrate Probiotics into Your Diet

Probiotics are live bacteria that add to the population of good bacteria in your digestive system. They are one of the best ways to enhance mood, aid digestion, and boost your immune system. Include fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kombucha in your diet.

Limit Alcohol

Check in with yourself and your gut and assess how you feel after consuming alcohol. Does it impact your energy and mood? How about your sleep? This well-known gut irritant can throw your whole inner balance off without you even realizing it.

Adopt a Whole Foods Based Diet

Nutrition is always the biggest piece of the puzzle. Make sure to eliminate high-processed foods, rancid cooking oils, and refined sugar from your diet and swap those out for nutrient dense, whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, rice, etc.

Hydrate Adequately

Dehydration is not supportive of a healthy gut and can lead to inflammation. You need to keep your body hydrated throughout the day. Try gut-supporting herbal teas instead of caffeine and alcohol. Chamomile, peppermint, calendula and fennel are all wonderful for healing the stomach.

Get Daily movement

Your gut microbiome is positively impacted by exercise. Make sure that movement is a non-negotiable part of your day, whether that’s a moderate-high intensity workout three times a week or a fitness class or even just a brisk walk in sunlight.

Prioritize Quality Sleep

Your gut microbes are sensitive to the time of day in the same way that you are. Your body runs on a circadian rhythm and it’s wise to respect that. Avoid scrolling social media before bed (at least an hour) and always listen to your body, when you feel sleepy, that’s your cue.

Manage Stress Effectively

Stress can wreak havoc on your gut, leading to an imbalance in your microbiota.

Feeling anxious at the end of the day? Try dumping out your worries on paper before you get into bed, it’s a great way to release tension before you sleep.

Include yoga, mediation and deep breathing as part of your routine and support your nervous system.

Understanding and nurturing your gut health can lead to significant improvements in your mood, health, and weight. Start making small changes today to foster a healthier gut—it could be the key to unlocking a happier, slimmer you.