A healthy gut and healthy hormones go hand-in-hand. After all, recent research shows that 95% of serotonin is produced in the gut—something most people aren’t aware of. 

There’s an undeniable connection. So, let’s dig a little deeper. Below, we explore the gut-hormone connection and how you can improve both.

How Your Gut Impacts Your Hormones

Your gut consists of trillions of bacteria. These bacteria aren’t just necessary for digestion. Surprisingly, they also play a major role in regulating immune function, inflammation, and neurological functions—including your mood, behaviours, and stress levels.

In fact, the gut bacteria play a role in the synthesis and breakdown of various hormones, including:

• Oestrogen
• Serotonin
• Dopamine
• Norepinephrine
• Acetylcholine

Whereas serotonin and dopamine are often associated with our mood, acetylcholine is linked to muscular contractions, and oestrogen contributes to a healthy libido, regulation of the menstrual cycle for women, and more. Thus, if you experience hormonal imbalances, you can have various symptoms, such as a low libido, poor muscle function, and low mood.

Yet, improving your gut health doesn’t have to be complicated. In reality, most of it comes down to what you eat.

4 Ways to Improve Your Gut Health (And Hormonal Health)

When we improve our gut health, we also improve our hormonal health. So, how do we do that? Here are a few tips.

• Aim to eat 30 plants a week. This can include vegetables, nuts, coffee, and fruit. The American Gut Study, a significant research project examining the human microbiome, suggests that individuals who incorporate 30 types of plant-based foods into their diet benefit from a substantially more diverse microbiome. This diversity is not as pronounced in those who consume a more limited range of plant foods, with 10 types or fewer. The implications of this are profound, as a diverse microbiome is often linked to better overall health.
• Eat more fibre. Fibre feeds the “good” bacteria in the gut, keeping that delicate microbiome balance in check. In turn, this can not only improve digestion but also your risk of developing chronic diseases—and yes, your hormones!
• Limit processed foods. These often lead to the further development of “bad” bacteria, as well as inflammation in the gut. Instead, stick to whole foods whenever possible.
• Chew every bite! No matter how rushed you are, chewing each bite 15-20 times kickstarts the digestion process. This can reduce painful digestion symptoms, such as gas and bloating, and ensure your body can absorb all those good nutrients from the food you eat.

How many plants can you eat in a week? Challenge yourself to make your plates more colourful. And while you’re at it, consider chiropractic care to propel your health and wellness forward. Book your FREE discovery call with your local Finsbury Park chiropractor today! BOOK NOW.