3 Ways to Improve Gut Health & Why It’s Important with Emily Schromm

June 13, 2017

Gut health is something that is often overlooked. Since our gut is the starting point for many processes within the body, it’s something that more people should focus on to improve overall health and well-being. When our gut isn’t functioning properly, systems throughout the entire body can be thrown off.

The gut is where all of our nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream and delivered to our cells. When there is an issue with our gut, our bodies aren’t able to obtain all the nutrients it requires to operate correctly. Beyond that, an unhealthy gut causes lower levels of serotonin and dopamine, which is responsible for making us happy.

Signs of an Unhealthy Gut

How do you know if you have gut issues? Some common signs of an unhealthy gut are bloating, cramping, and distention after eating. But, there are also some uncommon signs of an underlying gut issue. For example, an unhealthy gut can also affect your mood, skin, immune system, and can even cause bizarre nightmares or vivid dreams, so you may not realize your issues are even stemming from the gut.

How to Heal Your Gut

1. Slow Down

Many of us operate in a sympathetic (stressed) state. When we eat, we’re often thinking about other things going on in our lives and don’t really think about the food that is in front of us. The problem with this scenario is that our body then doesn’t produce the enzymes and natural HCL that properly breaks food down before it gets to the small intestine. Emily’s biggest tip for people is to slow down. It’s important to remind yourself that you’re trying to break this food down properly so your body can put it to good use.

2. Incorporate Key Nutrients

Bloating and distention is often a result of intestinal permeability. This means that the lining of our small intestine starts to pull apart, allowing particles to pass through that aren’t supposed to. Emily’s three favorite nutrients to help bring the intestine back to its ideal state are glutamine, marshmallow root, and slippery elm.

3. Probiotics

While probiotics can help balance bacteria in the gut and provide many benefits, Emily stresses that they won’t do any good unless they have a good home. It’s important to make sure you don’t have any form of leaky gut or intestinal permeability before probiotics are introduced.

Emily Schromm has experienced firsthand and through her clients the benefits of a healthy gut. Spending more time on improving your gut’s health may be just what your body needs to feel better and function more efficiently.