The term “you are what you eat” is one you hear quite often, but when it comes to your gastrointestinal health, this is literally true. You may not think that what you’re eating has that much of a direct impact on how your entire body feels and operates, but every system is impacted by the fuel (food) you consume.
Troy Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at five benefits of a GI (gut)-friendly diet, which should be rich in foods high in fiber along with fruits and vegetables.
- Weight-Loss
The bacteria found in the digestive systems of people eating a healthier, fiber-rich diet is more associated with weight loss instead of the gut bacteria found in overweight people.
- Improved Strength
Inflammation in the gut from a poor diet can cause bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause inflammation in other parts of the body, which will negatively impact your muscles and overall strength.
- A Better Night’s Sleep
A recent study of 500 people of various ages found that people with a better gut bacteria profile fell asleep faster and slept more deeply than people with a less diverse GI system. This also can carry over into the waking hours, as sleeping soundly can make you more alert and help you think clearly during the day. In addition, some gut bacteria can adversely affect your ability to think.
- A More Solid Stomach
Research shows that a diet high in fiber and probiotics can help all sorts of GI issues, ranging from diarrhea and constipation to irritable bowel syndrome, yeast infections, and urinary tract infections.
- Healthier Immune System
The majority of the body’s immune cells reside around your digestive system, and these cells mimic the work the bacteria in your gut is doing. So if your gut health is not optimal, your immune system will not be either.
To learn more about Troy Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://troy-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.
