Let’s talk about your gut!

I’m skipping the usual story this week because I don’t think you want to hear about my gut. If you’re missing the story, feel free to use your imagination.

Scenario: We see all the "positives" of alcohol in commercials, on social media, the glamorous nights out, the crazy football tailgates, the fancy cocktail bars, but where’s the disclaimer? You know, like the ones pharmaceutical drugs get warning you of the potential risks.

Well, today, I’m going to share one of those disclaimers with you.

Alcohol is a Double Whammy on our Gut Microbiome!

The gut biome seems to be trending these days, and it makes sense! Our gut is crucial for overall health. For example, our gut microbiome plays a key role in:

1. Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: It breaks down food, especially fiber, that your body can’t digest on its own.
2. Immune System Support: About 70% of your immune system lives in your gut.
3. Mental Health and Mood Regulation: Your gut is often called the "second brain" because it produces neurotransmitters like serotonin. When gut bacteria are out of balance, it can lead to anxiety, depression, and stress.
4. Energy Regulation: Gut bacteria help convert the food you eat into usable energy.
5. Weight Management: Gut health is closely tied to metabolism and weight regulation.
6. And the list goes on...

Needless to say, the gut is super important.

Did You Know?

Alcohol takes a double toll on your gut. Not only does it harm the good bacteria (your healthy gut microbiota), but it also allows bad bacteria to seep into your bloodstream (hello, leaky gut). In one swoop, alcohol increases inflammation, weakens your immune system, causes digestive issues, and can even heighten feelings of depression. And that's just the impact on the gut.

The Shift:

So, what can we do about it?

Option 1: The obvious one—we can reduce our drinking. When we cut back, our gut microbiome actually starts to repair itself. The human body is awesome like that.

Option 2: If/when we decide to drink, we should add some probiotics to our routine to help repair the damage we’re doing to our gut.

Favorite Photo of the Week:

Last week our friends Tasha (from New Zealand) and Diogo (from Portugal) visited! The weekend was filled with BBQs, hikes, and backyard games. Just perfect.

Till next week, be kind, be curious and work hard.

Tanner

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