Jun 09, 2021 11:24 AM EDT By Ernest Hamilton, UniversityHerald Reporter

Common ailments such as heartburn, gas, bloating and constipation all stem from issues in the digestive system. As we age, these issues become more common as our natural cycles slow down. Gut health is incredibly important, and any shifts in stomach acid, gastrointestinal flora and gut immunity can be difficult to deal with. When gut health is at its best, you are much less likely to experience inflammation and immunity problems. 

Believe it or not, gut health is not just related to your diet. If you are looking for the best ways to support your gut health and protect your digestive system, here are a few tips: 

Eat Well

Most people don't get nearly enough fiber in their diets. It's important to maintain a balanced diet full of fruit and vegetables, which are known to provide the necessary fiber to build up good bacteria for gut health. Other foods you should consider incorporating to your diet for a healthier digestive system include probiotic yogurt,  kefir (a type of fermented yogurt drink that is full of probiotics), miso and pickled foods like sauerkraut and kimchi. 

Get More Sleep

Getting adequate sleep each night is important. Lack of sleep is linked to higher levels of obesity, which sets you up for many digestive disorders. Improve your sleep by trying to limit screen time  before bed, reducing stress levels and getting regular exercise. 

Get Moving

Exercise is one of the simplest ways we can improve your general health.  Not only is it a great way to lose weight, but it actually helps with gut health. Keeping your body weight in check is important when it comes to warding off digestive issues. No matter what activities you like to do, being active goes a long way towards improving your health, even if it's just a few times a week. 

Keep Your Stress in Check

While there is no quick fix for issues such as heartburn, reducing stress can certainly have an impact on your gut health. There are many easy ways to reduce stress. Try meditation, yoga, exercise, journaling and various other mindfulness practices to figure out which option works best for you. 

Give Supplements a Shot

Although we should really get all the necessary nutrients from our daily diet, this is often easier said than done and sometimes you may need a little extra help. You should always use supplements wisely and ensure you purchase them from a reputable supplier, but they can aid with digestive issues. For example, Mega Sporebiotic has been clinically proven to help maintain a healthy gut barrier. 

Common digestive issues can cause a great deal of discomfort, especially if they are left untreated. Following these simple steps and making lifestyle changes such as improving your diet, keeping stress levels in check, staying hydrated and getting enough sleep should provide a solid foundation for improving your gut health. Supplements also have the potential to assist here, provided that they are from a reputable source and used widely. If you follow these tips and the problems persist, be sure to consult with a medical practitioner. 

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