Many Canadians experience digestive health issues. Things like bloating and an irritable bowel make it harder to enjoy daily activities. As a result, there is a growing interest in gut microbiome health. Here are answers to 5 common questions about gut health.
1. What is the gut microbiome, and why is it important?
The gut microbiome is the big ecosystem of bacteria and other microorganisms that help digest food and support our immune system. These microbes live in your digestive tract and have important roles. They:
- Help digest food
- Support your immune function
- Protect against harmful organisms
- May influence your energy levels, mood, and overall well-being
If your gut microbiome isn’t healthy, you may have digestive issues, and be more susceptible to illness.
2. How can I improve my gut health naturally?
To improve your gut health, start with simple daily habits.
- Eat a variety of fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains
- Stay hydrated
- Exercise regularly
- Manage stress
- Get enough sleep
Eating a range of fibre-rich foods is essential. Basically, when you eat well, the trillions of beneficial bacteria are nourished and work harder.
3. Should I take probiotics, and do they really work?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are especially good for your digestion. Adding them to your microbiome can give it a boost: they have been shown to both prevent and treat digestive health issues. You can buy probiotic supplements in capsule or powder form. And some foods are fortified with it, such as yogurt and fermented milk products, like kefir.
Not all probiotic products are the same though. And not every fermented food contains probiotics. It’s best to talk to a healthcare professional if you have persistent digestive concerns. They can help you figure out if probiotics are right for you.
4. Why am I always bloated or gassy?
Being gassy and bloated sometimes is normal. But if it happens frequently, these symptoms might indicate poor diet, high stress, constipation, food intolerances, or digestive conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
If they’re impacting the quality of your life, it’s time to figure things out. To get to the bottom of it, keep track of foods, symptoms, and lifestyle factors. This can help you spot a pattern and identify triggers. If these issues persist, become severe, or worsen, talk to a healthcare provider.
5. How do I know if I have IBS or something more serious?
IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome, one of the most common digestive conditions in Canada. It can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. However, these symptoms can also occur with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, infections, or other medical conditions.
If your symptoms are persistent or accompanied with unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool, anemia, or nighttime symptoms, get medical attention. You could be dealing with a more serious issue.
Gut Health Coverage
If you’re dealing with any of the gut health issues described here, Medavie Blue Cross offers a great first step to finding relief. You can get 2 consultations with a registered dietitian. They may recommend an at-home DNA gut microbiome test. Based on the test results, you’ll get a personalized report with targeted recommendations. Learn more about health insurance coverage options.
