Until last year, the only time I said the word “gut” was in reference to a class at my gym called “Butts and Guts.” Now? It’s up there next to “no” in terms of most frequently used words.
The rise of functional medicine has brought many topics to attention, most notably the importance of gut health. It seems like every day there’s a new book, article or study supporting the idea…it’s not revolutionary anymore. The gut is the second brain and key to our immune system. When the gut is out of whack, everything else is out of whack (think: full body inflammation, brain fog, depression and fatigue, among others). I’m somewhat convinced a weak gut is to blame for the election. Kidding.
I’m not alone in my journey to find stomach peace, as it seems like digestive issues are more common than ever. Occasional gas and bloating is one thing (we all get that) but it shouldn’t interfere with your life. As someone with a long history of GI woes (IBS, autoimmune disease, ulcers), my interest in this topic is personal. After six months of effort I wouldn’t say I’m perfectly “healed” (are we ever?) but I’m confident in my progress. The fact that my stomach isn’t an everyday concern is a huge win. Almost equally as important, I am becoming an expert on myself. I’m in this body for life so, yeah, I should learn how to work with and for it. Things are happening for me, not to me.
As for this post, it’s less sciency and more personal, although I will link to sources for more information if you are interested. That said, there are a few gut health-related things worth noting…
My energy levels have skyrocketed
Random, but hear me out.
I used to need a nap every single day. Let’s not confuse this with wanting a nap, I needed a nap…and an hour one at that! Despite easily waking up early to run, I couldn’t stay awake for a full day of activities. I played it off as my singular college student personality trait, since partying wasn’t my forte. Eventually, my chronic fatigue became more than a joke or a result of ample time. Roll your eyes and laugh (and maybe I was burnt out), but I hated feeling weak 24/7.
Fast-forward a few months and I’m no longer dependent. A stronger gut has resulted in the energy levels of a normal young adult. Now, naps are reserved for an occasional weekend treat or long car ride.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m still pro-sleep, just in the normal millennial way.
Further reading: Chronic fatigue syndrome is in your gut- not your head, Gut Bacteria and Brain Function
Diet alone didn’t solve everything
Food is medicine, except when it’s not enough. Before working with my doctor, I assumed that diet alone would change everything. To some extent it did, but I needed way more than a superfood to fix the bacterial imbalance. Nothing helped the way a doctor-driven protocol did.
Further reading: What You Should Know About Your Gut Bacteria
On the contrary, what I put into my body does matter
Duh. I will never discredit the power of a nutrient-dense diet. Now that I’m stronger, I believe certain foods and lifestyle changes can help keep me this way. This one isn’t a pseudo-effect.
I’m not going to hash out all the specifics but I do actively partake in general gut health guidelines. Is that a thing in which to partake? Among other staples, I rely on a high-quality probiotic, collagen (bone broth and powder), fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha) and healthy fats.
Forewarning: be careful if you Google ‘gut health diet.’ Information and result overload.
I found a core team
One very obvious thing I’ve learned is that the more people you invite into your healing journey, the more opinions you’ll have. This can be really good in some ways and really bad in others, the latter referring to conflicting doctor’s orders. I learned the same thing with my foot injury too.
My original intent was to exercise all avenues for healing and while it was the best of intentions, more isn’t always better. I’m grateful to have narrowed down my “team” to a select few individuals whom I reference when needed.
Source
Speed round:
-My mood has improved, which is to be expected when you aren’t in pain every day
-I’ve learned that you need to be your own advocate. Go into appointments prepared yet keep an open-mind.
-I’m not afraid to re-evaluate. As much as I hate change, what works today really might not work next year.
Further reading and podcasting:
–Balanced Bites podcast
–Gut Bacteria and Brain Function
–Dr. Mark Hyman (he’s everywhere in the world of functional medicine)
Autoimmune disease, chronic illness or not, the desire to feel good is universal. I spent so many years putting band-aids on serious issues that it’s taken more time than I wanted to heal. I keep some things personal (and don’t give recommendations) but I’m also open to discussion and supporting others.
Do some research, seek out a practitioner you admire and keep the faith. Your health is worth it. <3
So happy you are continuing to make progress! <3 I have really started listening to my body a lot more lately and it is amazing to me the signs that our bodies give us when we give it something it does not agree with or we do something that it does not agree with – it can be so easy to ignore those signs but the more I check in and listen to my body, it is amazing that I can figure out what to do to make it better.
Brie @ Lean, Clean, & Brie recently posted…Clarkston Back Roads Half Marathon Training Weeks 9 + 10
I’m happy to hear that <3 It sounds so hokey, but listening to what my body needs has been such an eye-opening experience.
Yes yes yes! This is something that I talk to all of my clients and trainees about–you have to figure out what works for you, as well as what doesn’t. You have to explore your body, and see if there are tweaks that you can make that help you feel even more whole. I”m so glad you are going bravely into the unknown on this journey!
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Back in the Kitchen, Out in the Sun
It’s been an honor and a challenge to get to know my body. It is a journey, and I’m so comforted that you recognize that xo
Happy to hear things are still going well! I realize when I eat like crap I need naps all the time, ha. But autoimmune diseases are really no joke. It took me months (and a trip to the hospital for a week!) to really find out what was going on. But knowing and knowing how to help is worth all that time.
Heather @Lunging Through Life recently posted…Weekend Recap: Baby Shower, Kitchen Demo, and a Dead Battery
Thanks, Heather! Yes, having those “bad” experiences has forced me to experiment and find the tools to manage the pain.
I need to hit you up for a chat girl!
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine recently posted…Roasted Apple & Cranberry Sauce
Please do!
WOW. I really needed to read this. I’m struggling with so many different gut issues, and I really really want to know where to start, and I think you gave me some ideas. I would love to talk more just to hear about your personal experiences; I know you’re not a doctor, but I would just love to hear some more of your personal experience.
Emily recently posted…Week in Review: Finding Contentment in One Place…
Em, please reach out if you’d like to chat! :)
I’m glad to hear you’re feeling better! It’s strange but figuring out my gut and taking probiotics, collagen and consuming fermented foods has been crucial in helping with my allergies. It’s linked to EVERYTHING!
Diana @ Live Lean Eat Green recently posted…How To Earn Rewards By Staying Fit
Seriously! Even if you don’t think it’s related, it probably is lol
This is a great post! I’m going to go back and read all the resources you suggested. Thanks!
Kristina @ Ms.Modify recently posted…{gluten free} Nutella Swirled Pumpkin Pie
Thanks, Kristina! I hope you find them helpful.
yay for progress! I feel like doing your own research can be so beneficial. That has definitely helped me with gut issues!
Alyssa recently posted…Week in Review 11/11/16
Thank you, Alyssa! Yes, and I’ve come to really enjoy learning about the gut and other health topics. First-hand experience gives you a new perspective.
Learning your own body and becoming your own best advocate are SO crucial. And then you just have to listen to your body (uh, the part I’m working on). Yay for progress!
Ellen @ My Uncommon Everyday recently posted…One Big Almond Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie
I’m always working on it too xo
I am so glad that the gut is finally getting the attention it deserves, and that you’re feeling better! Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you, Mandie!
Wow it’s awesome to hear about all of the benefits you’ve experienced from better gut health! I remember you mentioning taking a nap every day while you were in college still and that’s so great that you figured out why you were feeling too tired back then.
Liv @ Healthy Liv recently posted…Cheesy One-Skillet Baked Ziti
I feel like a new person in that sense!
the team thing is often overlooked but so important!
I agree! I’m grateful for a solid (small) support team.
This is such a great post. I’m so glad to hear that you are learning your own body and feeling better! I learned all about gut health in my IIN studies and never realized how important it is!
100% agree. We can’t do every thing alone. If we need motivation who should have friends beside to make any thing is possible.
Barbara J. Silverman recently posted…Best Shoes for Wide Feet