Mopani Pharmacy talked to Gut-Guru, Megan Lagerwey, Certified Wellness and Nutrition Coach. We discussed gut health, and how it can affect you, beyond a tummy ache.
Megan Lagerwey, photo supplied.
Is gut health an issue that people often ignore?
“The health of your gut microbiome is far more important than most people realise. A healthy gut is key to overall wellness. This includes mental and physical health. Gut health is responsible for immune system regulation, hormone production, inflammation reduction and natural detoxification. I think if more people realised how the gut impacted the rest of the body, they would take better care of it and reap the benefits!”
How do you know if your gut is unhealthy – as most people tend to just take an antacid and call it indigestion if they have a tummy ache?
“An unhealthy gut can show up in so many ways. Common digestive symptoms include bloating, cramping, pain, constipation or diarrhoea. Other, not-so-subtle ways, include acne, hormonal imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, skin problems (eczema), food sensitivities, fatigue and mental health issues. If you have any of these symptoms, you might as well start working on your gut health – it won’t hurt!”
How do Probiotics help?
“Probiotics are live, beneficial bacteria. It helps to support the growth of good bacteria in your large intestine. These bacteria are responsible for a host of things. This includes breaking down undigested fibre and producing short-chain fatty acids needed to keep your colon happy.”
What type of food is good or bad for your gut?
“I don’t like to think of food as “good” or “bad”. It can lead to fear of foods. Foods that can irritate the gut are things like diary, processed foods, sugar and alcohol. Diets high in animal products are also not beneficial for your gut bacteria. Foods that support your gut microbiome are plant foods. This includes veggies, fruit, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, etc.”
Is it true that one would have to eat a litre of yoghurt to get the same value as one probiotic tablet?
“Unfortunately, most yoghurts you find in the shops are very processed and have very little live bacteria in them. Probiotic supplements offer a range of bacterial strains and high amounts of CFU’s. You won’t find it in dairy alone. If you’re looking for food sources of probiotics, try kefir, sauerkraut, miso soup or kimchi.”
How does a healthy gut reflect in other areas of the body like your skin?
“Yes, as mentioned above, skin issues like acne, eczema and rosacea can be linked to the health of your microbiome. Your microbiome will not be able to support your body’s processes the way it should, when it is out of balance. You will start to see bacterial overgrowth of things like candida, fungi and parasites. This can wreak havoc on your skin.”
To remember
Ask our friendly staff at Mopani about our range of probiotics, if you have a gut feeling, that indicates some care needed. Alternatively, visit our online shop here.
You can reach Megan for a consultation by sending her an email: thegoodgutguru@gmail.com
We can deliver your medication, supplements and other Mopani online shopping, nationwide! More info: mopani.co.za | crossing@mopani.co.za | Tel: 013-755-5500 | WhatsApp: 066-192-1703