Advice for maintaining a healthy gut: Nutrition, cortisol regulation, and additional factors

Good morning and welcome to Wellness Wednesday! Today, we're diving into the crucial topic of gut health, which plays a significant role in various aspects of our well-being, from brain function to hormonal balance. Joining us is Dr. Taz Bhatia, an integrative medicine physician and the host of the new Hall Plus podcast. Remember, for more wellness insights, you can scan the QR code to download our Start Today app or visit your App Store on your Apple device. Dr. Taz, it's great to see you! Gut health has been a hot topic lately, even if it doesn't get as much attention as heart health or other areas. Can you explain why gut health is so vital? Absolutely! When we adopt a holistic view of health, we recognize that every part of our body is interconnected. Historically, the gut has always been seen as the foundation of health. Whether we're discussing mental wellness, inflammation, hormone regulation, or liver function, the gut is where it all begins. Addressing these issues in isolation often leads to temporary solutions, but a holistic approach is key. So, what should we focus on in our diet? Starting with diet is essential. The first step is to include foods that promote digestion. Coconut oil is fantastic; it acts as an antifungal and helps balance gut bacteria, which is crucial for digestion. Additionally, many of us aren't consuming enough fiber. Instead of juicing fruits and vegetables, blend them to retain that fiber; this can add an extra 8 to 10 grams of fiber to your daily intake, helping you reach the recommended 30 grams. You also mentioned an Ayurvedic tea called CCFT, made from cumin, coriander, and fennel. This tea is excellent for digestion, helping to keep things moving smoothly. And let's not forget about healthy fats—many people avoid them, but they're vital for gut health. A proper balance of bacteria in the gut is essential for digestion, blood sugar control, and reducing inflammation. Probiotics are important, too! We need to incorporate soluble fiber into our diets, alongside blended juices, to help maintain gut health. You mentioned okra juice—can you tell us more about that? Certainly! You can prepare okra by cutting it up and soaking it in water overnight. The resulting juice is beneficial for gut health. Before we wrap up, I want to touch on cortisol levels and their connection to gut health. Cortisol is closely linked to stress and our environment, impacting inflammation and overall gut function. Techniques like self-massage with sesame oil can improve circulation, while activities that stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system—like sound baths or acupuncture—can help lower cortisol levels. And don't underestimate the power of good sleep and nurturing relationships; they are essential for managing stress and cortisol levels. Dr. Taz, thank you for sharing these valuable insights!