Gut Health: Your Questions Answered

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome by increasing the population of friendly microorganisms in your digestive system. These beneficial bacteria help with nutrient absorption, immune function, and can crowd out harmful bacteria. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are specific types of plant fibre that act as food for these beneficial bacteria, helping them thrive and multiply creating an environment where good bacteria can flourish. Health practitioners recommend combining both for a synbiotic effect - probiotics introduce the beneficial bacteria while prebiotics provide the optimal environment for them to grow.

Supporting digestion naturally involves several complementary approaches. Digestive enzymes can help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates more efficiently, reducing bloating and discomfort after meals. Incorporating bitter herbs like dandelion, gentian, or globe artichoke before meals can stimulate digestion to enhance nutrient absorption. Establishing regular meal times helps train your digestive system to prepare enzymes at appropriate times. Staying well-hydrated supports the digestive tract and helps move food through your system. Consuming fermented foods rich in natural probiotics can balance gut bacteria, while soluble and insoluble fibre act as natural cleansers and prebiotics. Gentle movement after meals can stimulate peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through your digestive tract), and stress management is crucial as the gut-brain connection means anxiety directly impacts digestion.

Food-grade diatomaceous earth is a fine, silica-rich powder made from the fossilised remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. This traditional cleansing agent has a long history of use for gut support. This natural substance has a unique microscopic structure, each particle features sharp edges and a highly porous surface with a strong negative charge. These properties allow it to move through the digestive tract where it can help gently cleanse by attracting positively charged particles, including certain toxins, heavy metals, and intestinal parasites. The silica content can also support the integrity of the intestinal wall. Many users report reduced bloating and improved digestive comfort when using food-grade diatomaceous earth consistently.

Yes! There is a well-established bidirectional relationship between gut and skin health known as the gut-skin axis. When your digestive system is imbalanced, it can lead to increased intestinal permeability (sometimes called ""leaky gut""), allowing inflammatory compounds to enter the bloodstream and potentially trigger skin inflammation. The gut microbiome also influences systemic inflammation levels, hormone regulation, and immune function, these are all factors that directly impact skin appearance and health. Common skin issues linked to gut imbalances include acne, rosacea, eczema, and premature aging. Addressing the root causes through gut health optimisation can provide skin improvements that topical treatments alone can achieve. Supporting your digestive system with probiotics, digestive enzymes, and anti-inflammatory compounds can significantly improve skin clarity, resilience, and overall appearance.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has gained popularity for its potential digestive benefits, including supporting healthy acid levels in the stomach and encouraging beneficial gut bacteria. While traditional liquid ACV contains the ""mother"" (beneficial bacteria and enzymes) and higher concentrations of acetic acid, many people find its strong taste and potential tooth enamel effects challenging. ACV gummies offer a more convenient and palatable alternative, typically containing dehydrated apple cider vinegar. Always look for gummies that include the ""mother"" to reap the full benefits, as these contain the beneficial bacteria and enzymes responsible for many of ACV's health properties.