Data is coming to the forefront on the relationship between the gut and the brain. Our gut contains about 80 percent of our immune system. It is also responsible for extracting the nutrients needed daily to make and keep us healthy. When our food choices are deficient in the nutrients we need, we will not be as healthy as we could be. When our digestive system is not working properly, it can lead to many health issues:
● Diabetes
● Obesity
● Hair loss
● Graying hair
● Constipation
● Diarrhea
● Eczema
● Seborrhea
● Anemia
● Internal bleeding
● Ulcers
● Strokes
● Cancers
● Irritable bowel syndrome
● Degenerative disease (Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s)
● Gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis, acid reflux, indigestion)
● Respiratory disorders (asthma, COPD, etc.)
● Autoimmune disorders (Celiac, Crohns)
We need balanced nutrition to get all the required nutrients for good health. Long-term deficiencies in any nutrient can become a health problem. Other factors that can disrupt the digestive processes are:
● Antibiotics
● Laxatives
● Heavy metals
● Surgeries
● Colonoscopies
● Low levels of fiber
● Too much fiber
● Protein deficiency
● Excess intestinal acidity
● Antibacterial medicines (Dynapen, Urex, Nydrazid, Macrodantin)
● Animal hormones (added to the foods we eat)
● Animal antibiotics (added to the foods we eat)
● Toxins from foods (artificial colors, artificial flavors, etc.)
● Toxins from personal care products (toothpaste, soaps, etc.)
A quick note on antibiotics. If your physician prescribes an antibiotic please be sure to ask about a probiotic to counter the temporary effects of the antibiotic. Ask, also, about prebiotics to support a healthy digestive environment.
Our digestive juices are not as strong, or as plentiful, in our older years. Researchers recommend not to drink thirty minutes prior to, and after a meal. This reduces the amount of dilution of our digestive juices. Diluted digestive acid minimizes the nutrient value we receive from eating.
