Experts often refer to the gut as the "second brain" of our body. This designation is not given by chance, as it has been shown that the gut affects various functions, such as digestion, and it can even have clear effects on our mood. This explains the high percentage of patients with chronic intestinal problems who suffer from depression and anxiety.

Experts insist that a healthy gut is the key to a happier daily life. The gut is a key part of the digestive system and is a gateway to all diseases. As is often the case, small daily habits, even unintentionally, can significantly damage gut health.

Lack of dietary diversity

In general, a rich and diverse gut flora is considered ideal for gut health. A diet consisting of various foods can lead to a more diverse flora. In fact, changing the diet can change the profile of its flora after only a few days. As hard as it may be, introducing to your diet a variety of foods and nutrients is important to keep your gut happy.

Lack of prebiotics

Prebiotics are a type of plant fiber that promotes the growth and activity of friendly gut bacteria. Many foods contain prebiotic fibers, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Their deficiency in the diet can be detrimental to overall digestive health. Foods high in prebiotics are:

• Legumes
• Bananas
• Artichokes
• Asparagus
• Nuts

Stress seriously damages your gut

Being healthy isn't just about diet, physical activity, and getting enough sleep. High-stress levels can also harm the body as they can trigger a domino effect within the gut, amplifying sensitivity, constricting blood flow, and even reshaping the composition of our gut bacteria. According to research, various forms of stress can significantly diminish the diversity of our gut flora, a key indicator of gut health. This reduction in microbial diversity can pave the way for a host of gastrointestinal issues, undermining our overall well-being.

Insufficient sleep

Good quality sleep is very important for overall health. Studies show that sleep deprivation is linked to many diseases, including obesity and heart disease. Sleep is so important that our body has its own biological clock, known as the circadian rhythm. It is an internal 24-hour clock that affects the brain, body, and hormones. It can keep us alert but also tell our body when it's time to sleep. It seems that the gut also follows a daily circadian rhythm. Disrupting the "body clock" due to lack of sleep can also harm gut health.

If you are having trouble sleeping, try those tips that will help you have a peaceful sleep.

Lack of regular physical activity

Physical activity is defined as any movement of the body that requires energy. Walking, gardening, swimming, and cycling are all examples of physical activity. As we have seen, physical activity provides various health benefits, including weight loss, lower stress levels, and reduced risk of chronic disease. In addition, studies show that physical activity can alter gut bacteria, improving gut health. So, why not leaving the car at home and take a nice, long walk?