Here at the British Hemp Co. we are well aware of the benefits of introducing fibre into your diet.  Gut health can be greatly improved by supplementing hemp based products into your meals. 

So what is gut health?

Gut health refers to the overall well-being and functionality of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which includes various organs involved in the process of digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination. The gut, also known as the digestive system, plays a vital role in maintaining overall health as it affects not only digestion but also various aspects of the immune system and even mental well-being. 

Key components of gut health include: 

  • Microbiota: The gut is home to a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes. Collectively, these microorganisms are known as the gut microbiota or gut microbiome. A balanced and diverse microbiota is important for digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system function. 
  • Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: The gut is responsible for breaking down the food we consume into smaller molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and used by the body for energy, growth, and repair.
     
  • Intestinal Barrier: The gut lining has a barrier function that allows nutrients to pass through while preventing harmful substances, pathogens, and toxins from entering the bloodstream. This barrier helps protect the body from infections and inflammation.
     
  • Immune System: A significant portion of the immune system is in the gut, known as gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT). The gut immune system helps distinguish between harmful pathogens and beneficial microbes, promoting a balanced immune response.
     
  • Neurological Connection: The gut and the brain communicate bidirectionally through a network of nerves and biochemical signals, known as the gut-brain axis. This connection highlights the influence of gut health on mental health and vice versa. 

Factors that can influence gut health include diet, lifestyle, stress levels, medications, and certain medical conditions. A diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains promotes a healthy gut by providing nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria. On the other hand, a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats can negatively impact gut health. 

Probiotics and prebiotics are often used to support gut health. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that can be found in certain foods and supplements. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that provide a food source for beneficial bacteria, helping them thrive. 

Maintaining good gut health is important for overall well-being. An imbalance in the gut microbiota or disruptions in gut function can lead to digestive issues, inflammation, and potentially contribute to conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and more. 

Some symptoms of having poor gut health can include:

Upset stomach

Stomach disturbances can all be signs of an unhealthy gut. They include: 

A balanced gut will have less difficulty processing food and eliminating waste, likely leading to fewer symptoms.

Unintentional weight changes

Gaining or losing weight without changing your diet or exercise habits may be a sign of an unhealthy gut. An imbalanced gut can impair your body’s ability to absorb nutrients, regulate blood sugar, and store fat. 

Weight loss may be caused by malabsorption because of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). On the other hand, weight gain may be caused by insulin resistance or increased inflammation. 

Sleep disturbances or constant fatigue

Research indicates that an imbalance in gut bacteria may be linked to fragmented sleep and short sleep duration, which may lead to chronic fatigue. 

While the cause remains unclear, it appears to be connected to inflammation, metabolic function, and mental health. 

Skin irritation

Skin conditions like psoriasis may be related to types of bacteria present in the gut. Lower concentrations of beneficial bacteria may impact the body’s immune system. 

This, in turn, may lead to conditions that affect the organs, including the skin. 

Autoimmune conditions

Many studies have found connections between the gut and the immune system. An unhealthy gut may increase systemic inflammation and alter the proper functioning of the immune system. 

This can lead to autoimmune diseases, where the body attacks itself rather than harmful invaders. 

Food intolerances

Food intolerances are the result of difficulty digesting certain foods. This is different than a food allergy, which is caused by an immune system reaction to certain foods. 

    If you have concerns about your gut health or digestive issues, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and recommendations.