Wine Country CrossFit

The critical role that our gut plays in our overall health is often overlooked. On top of being responsible for digestion, the gut houses an important part of our immune system and produces several hormones that interact with the rest of the body. Plus, the gut is teaming with a microscopic ecosystem of good bacteria, many of which affect our mood, appetite, and the physical condition of our bodies. With that in mind, here are some simple, natural ways to take care of digestive problems so you can start feeling your best.

Managing Gut Inflammation

Many common digestive problems are associated with inflammation, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and IBS. Certain diets and poor lifestyle habits can contribute to inflammation. For example, sugar, simple carbs, processed foods, and alcohol can trigger inflammation in the gut. Some people also discover their bodies are sensitive to ingredients like gluten and dairy.

CBD oil may help people who are facing problems with gut inflammation. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a substance derived from hemp that has unique health benefits. It’s important to know that since CBD is non-psychoactive, it will not produce a “high.” Evidence shows that CBD oil reduces inflammation in the body, suggesting that CBD could be used to improve gut health and relieve inflammatory problems. Additionally, CBD is a strong pain-reliever, appetite stimulant, and nausea-suppressant, making it an ideal natural treatment for several digestive ailments. Check out Remedy Review to learn more about how CBD oil could benefit you.

Increasing Beneficial Gut Bacteria

Balancing your gut bacteria can also help with inflammatory digestive diseases. According to Science Daily, good gut bacteria interacts with the immune system and cells lining the digestive tract. This allows friendly bacteria to help manage the immune system response and avoid excessive inflammation in the gut.

Fortunately, fixing your diet is an excellent way to encourage the growth of good gut bacteria. Fermented foods, such as kimchi, kefir, and miso, are particularly beneficial since they are natural sources of healthy gut bacteria. Other foods contain special compounds called prebiotics that feed healthy gut bacteria — onions, oats, lentils, and apples are just a few examples.

Exercise also has the ability to positively alter your gut microbiome. One study found that endurance training can reduce bad gut bacteria that contributes to inflammation while increasing the amount of good gut bacteria involved in metabolism. CrossFit is a great form of endurance training. Plus, it has strength-boosting benefits not found in many other forms of exercise.

Relieving Heartburn and Acid Reflux

Balancing your gut bacteria may also help with acid reflux or heartburn, but there is not a lot of research or evidence to support this. You may have better luck reducing that burning sensation in your chest by steering clear of problem foods, including:

• Caffeine
• Foods high in fat
• Alcohol
• Citrus fruits and tomatoes
• Carbonated drinks

When dealing with heartburn, laying down may cause your stomach contents to splash up into your esophagus more easily. So, it’s a good idea to maintain an upright posture for at least two hours after you’ve been eating. Take a walk after your meals to help speed up digestion. Losing a couple of pounds may also help relieve your heartburn problems since body fat increases pressure on the stomach — another great reason to try CrossFit! Additionally, chewing gum helps your mouth produce more saliva to neutralize stomach acid and soothe your esophagus.

Digestive problems can really get in the way of our lives, causing a variety of frustrations, from mild discomfort to embarrassment. Fortunately, adopting healthy lifestyle habits is the best way to fight these all-too-common ailments. Simple diet changes, a healthy exercise regime, and a few all-natural solutions may be all you need. You’ll likely discover that your entire body — and your mind — feel so much better for it!

-Cheryl Conklin