An expert’s perspective on gut health & probiotics

Did you know between 70% and 80% of your immune cells are in the gut?¹ This emphasises the close link between gut health and the immune system. When out of balance, it is harder for the body to fight infection.

While you can boost a weakened immune system, gut health experts say it is important to maintain a good balance of bacteria for a healthy gut and overall health.²

How gut health works²

The gut microbiome is the foundation of health, where the body gets rid of waste and toxins. However, if the gut is unhealthy, the body will struggle, and toxins will build up which can have harmful and long-term effects.

“An unhealthy gut can cause health issues such as chronic fatigue, illnesses and inflammation,” says Willco Janse van Vuuren, managing director of Releaf Pharmaceuticals, a leading manufacturer of complementary and alternative medicines and scientifically proven vitamins and supplements. “A healthy gut talks to the brain through nerves and hormones, so when it isn’t working as it should, the brain is also affected.”

This is why people with an unhealthy gut experience symptoms such as brain fog, headaches, poor concentration, fatigue and trouble sleeping.

What can affect gut health?²

The most common factors that contribute to poor gut health are stress, poor nutrition and long-term use of antibiotics and antacids. That said, everyone can have a healthy gut. Experts agree that lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.³

Certain foods and a healthy lifestyle can improve gut health. Science and dieticians recommend the following:

• Eat lots of fruit and vegetables⁴: leafy greens and fresh fruits are the best sources of nutrients for a healthy microbiome.

“Good nutrition is the easiest way to influence the gut microbiome. Add high-fibre foods, such as raspberries, artichokes, green peas, broccoli, bananas and apples. Studies also show that the body can prevent the growth of disease-causing bacteria when you eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables,” comments Lelani Rautenbach, head of marketing for Releaf Pharmaceuticals.

• Eat prebiotic foods^{2, 4}: many foods naturally contain prebiotics, which promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. Prebiotic foods can include onion, ginger and garlic. Popular South African flavours like black pepper, cinnamon, oregano, rosemary and turmeric can also positively impact the microbiome.

• Stay hydrated⁵: water has several health benefits. It supports skin health and helps with brain function. Your water intake influences your gut microbiome.

“When you drink enough water, the gut will absorb important nutrients like electrolytes and vitamins, helping to keep a healthy gut,” Rautenbach adds.

• De-stress⁵: stress negatively impacts gut health, and while it is impossible to live a life without stress, there are techniques to manage it better so that it does not affect your overall health.

“Manage stress by practicing mindfulness, eating healthy, getting enough sleep and doing light exercise. A daily 30-minute walk outdoors will do wonders for your body and help you to de-stress,” Rautenbach explains.

• Increase probiotics: these are beneficial bacteria found in certain foods and supplements which improve health by supporting the metabolism. Some studies also show that probiotics can restore the gut microbiome to a healthy state. Find probiotics in fermented foods like kimchi, yoghurt and sauerkraut. Alternatively, you can use a quality and scientifically proven probiotic supplement.

“Some people cannot tolerate fermented foods and should use probiotics to get the vitamins and minerals their bodies need,” Janse van Vuuren says.

When selecting a probiotic to support your gut health, experts recommend a using brand formulated with high-quality ingredients and which has been through rigorous quality and efficacy testing.

“There are specially formulated probiotic supplements designed for adults and children to improve their gut health and its functioning. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before adding a probiotic supplement to your diet,” Janse van Vuuren concludes.

References:

1. PubMed. The Interplay between the Gut Microbiome and the Immune System in the Context of Infectious Diseases throughout Life and the Role of Nutrition in Optimizing Treatment Strategies. Accessed on 7 July 2022.
2. Parkview Health. The importance of gut health. Accessed on 7 July 2022.
3. Med Pharm. South Africans should prioritise gut health as a focus area for intervention to achieve their nutrition and health goals. Accessed on 7 July 2022.
4. Healthline. 9 Ways to Improve Your Gut Bacteria, Based on Science. Accessed on 7 July 2022.
5. Reviews. 7 effective ways to improve gut health, according to registered dietitians. Accessed on 7 July 2022.