How I am Resetting my Gut
After travelling for two months around Europe and indulging a little too much on pasta and cocktails, I have come home to an inflamed gut. This has led to some skin break outs, reduced immunity and just feeling unmotivated overall.
On my travels I still maintained routine. I made sure to move my body, meditate and journal daily. However, I was certainly more lenient on my diet. Experiencing these negative side effects since coming home has made me prioritise my gut health more than ever. Over the last 6 weeks I have been implementing these five rules, and I am feeling back to my old self already!
1.Limiting my alcohol consumption
The morning after I've had a night on the cocktails, I instantly feel the effects on my gut and energy. On this cleanse I’ve limited my drinks to two glasses of organic wine a week. As much as I love a spicy margarita, I am focused on getting my gut back into shape. Alcohol sterilises the gut so it can wipe out our beneficial bacteria. Cocktails tend to have more sugar and additives so it’s just about keeping it basic for now or opting for a tequila and soda which is the least gut disturbing option.
This isn’t a permanent lifestyle change so it’s a small price to pay for improved energy and confidence.
2. Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet - I am opting for a more paleo style diet
Whilst I focus on my gut, I’m eliminating processed foods, refined carbs, sugar and artificial sweeteners. My diet is focused around eating fresh foods such as fruit, vegetables, healthy fats, healthy carbohydrates and good quality protein. I have been loving wild caught smoked salmon - a great source of omega-3 fatty acids which can assist with reducing inflammation internally. It’s also amazing for the skin as it helps to improve oil quality in turn reducing breakouts.
3. Taking a high-quality probiotic and collagen powder
Every night I now take a high-strength probiotic to restore the beneficial bacteria in my gut . I am currently taking the BioCeuticals UltraBiotic 45, this one is kept in the fridge. It’s best to consult a practitioner to assist you in working out what probiotic you need depending on your symptoms as different strains have different benefits.
I have also introduced collagen powder. I love the Vida Glow Peach flavour sachets. This has helped with the overall glow and appearance of my skin.
4. Regular Infrared saunas
If you have been following me for a while, you’ll know my love for infrared saunas. I really do swear by them for improving your skin, energy, mood and sleep! I sauna at least three times per week.
Regular saunas assist with detoxification, inflammation, as well as digestion. I always have an instant glow after 30 minutes of heat, and the relaxing feeling after is another great contributor to improved gut health.
5. Relax and learn the power of saying no!
This year has been the hardest year of my life. I’ve been through a breakup and found out my mum has a rare cancer. With these hard moments, I have felt more stressed and anxious than usual. The gut is negatively affected by the rise in cortisol and other stress hormones.
My self-care rituals have been my lifesaver. Journalling, meditating, walks and saying no to arrangements that don’t serve me have been some of the ways I’ve learnt to practice self-love and in turn heal my gut.