Did You Know? How to Improve Your Gut Health

Do you suffer from digestive problems? Research shows that approximately 11% of the U.S. adult population suffers from some form of chronic digestive disease. In seniors, rates of chronic disease disease are even higher. Whether you're young or old, though, you can minimize your risk of digestive disease by improving your gut health. With a healthier gut biome, you'll be better protected against a myriad of digestive diseases and disorders that could otherwise lower your quality of life.

Increase Fiber Intake

Fiber is intrinsically connected to your gut health. It consists of plant-based material that cannot be completely broken down by enzymes in the digestive system. Long story short, fiber helps to move food through your digestive system. Unfortunately, many people neglect to consume a sufficient amount of fiber. Some reports suggest that over nine in 10 U.S. adults have a fiber deficiency. To improve your gut health and protect against digestive disease, try to consume 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily.

Limit Consumption of Red Meat

Another way to improve your gut health is to limit the consumption of red meat. Beef and pork -- as well as other types of red meat -- are difficult to break down in the digestive system. As a result, they can leave you feeling bloated while increasing your risk of digestive problems in the process. You can still enjoy an occasional burger or other dish of red meat; just remember to make it a small part of your overall diet. If you consume red meat daily, you'll inevitably experience digestive distress.

Eat Yogurt

Consider adding yogurt to your diet. Aside from being delicious, it's good for your gut health. Yogurt contains cultures known as probiotics that assist your digestive system with breaking down food. Within your digestive system are billions of fungi and bacteria that break down food. Yogurt replenishes your digestive system with more of these "good" fungi and bacteria.

Stay Physically Active

You might be surprised to learn that maintaining a physically active lifestyle can improve your gut health. People who live a sedentary lifestyle generally have the highest rates of digestive disease. If you spend most of your days sitting in place, you may experience digestive problems.

Exercising and performing other physical activities is good for your gut health because it promotes the movement of food through your digestive system. When you're physically active, you'll engage muscles in and around your stomach. The engagement of these muscles will, in turn, move food through your digestive system. As a result, physical activity is essential to your gut health.