Gut Health

​This week I will be focusing on your gut….why it needs to be healthy and what can go wrong, as well as how reflexology can help.
So, what is gut health and why is it important?
The digestive system contains many types of bacteria to help with the function of the gut. When these are correctly balanced and working efficiently the gut is considered healthy. Unfortunately the balance can be easily upset due to poor diet, infection, medication, stress or chronic conditions.
A healthy digestive system is important because it breaks down the food we eat into simple nutrients which enter the bloodstream and get carried to where they can be used. The bacteria fight off infections and viruses keeping us feeling well. The gut also has a nerve supply which communicates with the brain to regulate hormones and general well-being.
I’m sure we have all experienced an unbalanced digestive system. Symptoms can include: heartburn, indigestion, bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, to name a few.
The type of food and the way it is prepared is often key to general good health. But you may have allergies or sensitivities which may also affect what you are able to eat, for which you would require specific professional advice.
Reflexology can really help settle and rebalance the digestive system. It works to settle the parasympathetic nervous system easing stress and anxiety which in turn calms the stomach and intestines.
Reflexology also encourages the peristalsis (muscular wave) in the gut which helps to reduce bloating and constipation. It is very common for the gut to gurgle during a treatment!