Gut health and Hormones
Do you struggle with constipation, gas, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea and constant discomfort in your stomach? This blog will give you some tips to help support and repair some of your gut issues.
For many people, the struggle with digestive issues is a part of life for them, they are so used to it that they often don’t recall feeling any different. This should not be the norm, no one should have to continue to suffer. While gut issues is not a simple fix, there are steps that you can start taking to repair and support your gut issues.
It may be surprising to some to learn that hormonal imbalances (e.g. estrogen, progesterone, thyroid, insulin, cortisol,etc.) can impact gut health and this is because the gut plays such a major role in hormone production and metabolism.
Some important gut functions include:
Produces and regulates hormones such as estrogen, thyroid hormones, melatonin, serotonin, etc. The gut also produces microbes that are responsible for metabolizing excess estrogen and removing it from the body. If this clearing does not occur, you could become estrogen dominant.
Produces most of the body’s serotonin (happy chemical) that impacts your mood and emotions because of the ongoing communication between the gut and the brain. I am sure that you've heard the gut being referred to as your second brain. An example of the gut brain connection is evident when you are feeling anxious (e.g., before a test or big meeting), you might develop an uneasy feeling in your stomach such as butterflies, nausea, diarrhea, etc. These are the signs of a worried brain.
Provides immune support. With 60 to 80% of your immunity in your gut, any unresolved issues with the gut will lead to a compromised immune system.
The gateway for nutrients entering the body. If your gut is not absorbing the nutrients from food, then your body will become deficient as it will not have the nutrients your cells and your body need to survive and thrive.
Gut issues that persist and are not addressed, could result in other serious illnesses such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), autoimmune diseases, diabetes, anxiety, depression, asthma and eczema.
So what do you do about your gut issues?
The prudent thing to do is to consult your medical doctor and often you receive medications which usually address the symptoms, help you to feel better, but don't the root cause.
In the meantime, here are a few things that you can do to start addressing your own gut health.
Manage your stress. See my recent blog which offers some times to manage high cortisol and stress. https://www.deonhall.com/single-post/is-stress-and-high-cortisol-driving-your-weight-gain-mood-and-more.
Wholesome diet and nutrition is the foundation for good health, with your gut at the forefront for absorbing vital nutrients that your body needs. Fiber is an integral part of an optimal diet. If you do not have enough time to incorporate adequate amounts of fiber in your diet, a good fiber powder is a great alternative.
Supplements and herbs. In addition to a good high quality multivitamin along with omega fatty acid and vitamin D, there are other supplements and herbs that can support your gut health. According to Dr. Mariza Synder, author of the ‘Essential Oils Menopause Solution, here are a few of her recommendations:
NAC - the supplement form of amino acid cysteine found in high protein foods. It is high in antioxidants and helps with cell damage and provides immune support. It helps to clear the detoxification pathways and fight inflammation. Recommended dosage: 1800 MG/day
Aloe vera - helps to soothe and restore balance in the intestine. It also helps to support candida overgrowth or irritable bowel syndrome. Recommended dosage: 300 MG/day
Slippery Elm - packed with antioxidants and helps to support digestive issues by reducing bloating and reducing constipation. Recommended dosage: 1-3 TSP powder mixed in liquid 3 times /day
Marshmallow Root -helps to reduce inflammation in the gut and supports digestive issues. Recommended dosage: 2G 3 times/day
Ginger - packed with antioxidants and helps to support digestive issues. Recommended dosage: 2 capsule of dried ginger
Reduce toxic load - See prior blogs on the impact of toxins on your health
Adopting a daily essential oil protocol. There are several essential oils that can help to support digestive functions. Here are a few recipes from Dr. Mariza Synder.
In a roller bottle, combine 6 drops Ginger essential oils; 6 drops Fennel essential oils; 5 drops Peppermint essential oils; 5 drops Clove essential oils, tap off with a carrier oil. Roll over your gut to promote digestive health.
Source: Dr.Mariza Synder, The Essential Oils Menopause Solution.
In Good Health,
Deon
DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended to provide medical advice. The purpose is to provide education and broader understanding to my readers. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. I do not recommend or prescribe, or recommend changing dosage or discontinuing, any prescription medications or pharmaceutical drugs.
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