In order for your digestive health to be optimal, you need a proper balance of the gut microbiome. This blend of good gut bacteria that reside in the gut is vital for a strong immune system, a healthy brain, proper nutrient synthesis, and optimal digestion.
A healthy gut is vital for the gut-brain axis. This communication system connects the central nervous system and the digestive tract.
Knowing the importance of maintaining healthy digestion and a good balance of the microbiome, let’s learn about the best ways to strengthen the gut’s health as well as a recipe for a DIY potent herbal tonic that will promote a healthier gut!
Your Gut’s Allies
If you want a stronger gut, here are the best allies:
- Don’t forget probiotics and prebiotics
Your gut’s best friends are prebiotics and probiotics.
Present in a variety of foods and drinks and also found in supplement form, these good bacteria will ensure optimal gut microbiome and healthy digestion.
- Follow a balanced diet
The gut loves diversity. Make sure your diet is rich in whole foods, including veggies, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.
These foods supply your gut with essential nutrients and nourish the diverse microbiome.
- Manage your stress
Stress is inevitable, but it’s pivotal to learn proper stress management techniques that will help us live better.
Whether it’s yoga, meditation, reading books, running, etc, finding the right stress release method for you is also good for the gut because it will better the secretion of digestive juices that are vital for proper digestion.
DIY Herbal Tonic to Repair Your Gut
Herbal elixirs can do wonders for your digestive tract. Choosing the right ingredients will maximize the effects and ensure your gut is soothed and healed.
Let’s check out the recipe for this healing elixir first before we discuss the benefits of the ingredients in more detail!
You will need:
2 cups of boiling water
A tablespoon of chia seeds
One inch piece of ginger; peeled and sliced thinly
A bit of cayenne pepper
A tablespoon of lemon juice
A tsp of honey
A tsp of slippery elm bark powder
Preparation:
Add the sliced and peeled ginger bits to the boiling water. Cover the content and leave it to simmer for 10 minutes.
Transfer the content into a cup and add the chia seeds, cayenne pepper, and honey. Stir and then add the slippery elm bark powder.
Leave the drink to cool down to room temperature to be suitable for consumption. If you wish a smoother texture, feel free to strain the beverage to remove the bigger pieces of ginger.
How to use:
Consume a cup of this gut-soothing elixir, half an hour or so before breakfast. This will ensure you’re starting your day preparing the gut with the nutrients it needs. It will boost the digestive processes and improve nutrient absorption.
You can also drink the soothing tonic after meals because it will improve digestion and prevent discomfort and indigestion.
What Are the Health Benefits of the Ingredients of This Elixir?
- Ginger is praised for relieving bloating, alleviating an upset stomach, and reducing digestive discomfort
- Chia seeds provide soluble fiber. This promotes the growth of good gut bacteria, helps you have regular bowel movements, and ensures smooth digestive processes
- Honey or the golden elixir doesn’t just add the necessary sweetness to this healing tonic, but it also provides amazing healing properties, including antimicrobial characteristics that help keep your gut flora healthy and thriving on good bacteria
- Lemon juice is abundant in vitamin C and has antioxidant properties; it will encourage collagen production and ensure a healthy gut lining. Its natural acidity stimulates digestive enzyme secretion which ultimately helps dissolve food better
- Cayenne is your gut’s ally because it stimulates the digestive processes and boosts the absorption of nutrients
- Slippery elm bark acts like a soothing balm for the digestive system; it will coat your digestive tract with a soothing mucus
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