What are the 5 lifestyle tips the NHS recommends for a healthy gut?

The NHS recommends reducing stress, quitting smoking, slowing down during meals, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding binge drinking to improve gut health.

How does stress impact the digestive system, according to the NHS?

The NHS states that stress can either slow down digestion, leading to bloating and constipation, or speed it up, causing frequent trips to the bathroom. Reducing stress can help stabilize the gut.

What is the connection between smoking and heartburn, as explained by the NHS?

The NHS explains that smoking weakens the muscle that keeps stomach acid in place, allowing acid to reflux back up and trigger heartburn. Quitting smoking can help alleviate this issue.

Home / Health / 5 Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy, Happy Gut, According to NHS

5 Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy, Happy Gut, According to NHS

16 Nov

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Summary

Stress impacts digestive balance, causing issues like bloating and constipation
Smoking weakens the muscle that keeps stomach acid in place, leading to reflux
Eating habits like rushing meals and heavy dinners can disrupt gut function

5 Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy, Happy Gut, According to NHS

According to a recent report from the National Health Service (NHS), making a few simple lifestyle adjustments can have a surprising impact on gut health. The NHS highlights 5 key habits that can help keep your stomach functioning optimally.

First and foremost, the NHS emphasizes that stress does not stay confined to the mind - it directly affects the digestive system. For some, stress slows down digestion, leading to bloating and constipation, while for others, it speeds up the process, causing frequent trips to the bathroom. Reducing stress, even in small ways, can help stabilize the gut.

Smoking is another major culprit, as it weakens the muscle that keeps stomach acid where it belongs. This allows acid to reflux back up, triggering heartburn. Quitting smoking can help alleviate this issue.

The NHS also notes that eating habits play a crucial role. Rushing through meals, having heavy dinners right before bed, and failing to stay hydrated can all disrupt gut function. Slowing down, chewing properly, and maintaining a sensible eating schedule can make a big difference.

Excess weight is another factor, as extra abdominal fat can put pressure on the stomach and worsen heartburn. Even modest weight loss can provide relief.

Lastly, the NHS cautions against binge drinking, as it can spike acid production and irritate the digestive system, leading to discomfort.

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