Why Your Gut Is Called The Second Brain

Welcome to SemicHealth Pulse!

Your gut does more than digest food—it’s often called your “second brain”.

In today’s newsletter, we will cover:

1. How your gut and brain communicate.

2. The best probiotics and prebiotics that improve gut health.

3. Example of a probiotic-rich smoothie.

4. And lastly, we will cover tips to manage stress for better gut health.

The Gut-Brain Connection

Your gut and brain are in constant communication through the gut-brain axis. This connection influences everything from your mood to your immune system. When your gut is healthy, your brain (and body) will thank you.

Foods for a Healthy Gut

Eating the right foods can help you avoid common digestive issues like constipation, heartburn, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.

Here are some gut-friendly foods to add to your diet:

• Probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

• Prebiotics: Bananas, garlic, onions, and asparagus.

• Fiber-Rich Foods: Whole grains, beans, and leafy greens are packed with lots of nutrients.

Stress and Your Gut

Have you ever felt that uneasy, churning sensation in your stomach during stressful moments?

That’s because stress can disrupt your digestive system, throwing its delicate balance off track.

For some, stress slows digestion, leading to bloating, pain, and constipation.

For others, it speeds things up, causing diarrhea and frequent bathroom trips.

And for many, stress can even zap their appetite entirely.

Here are a few tips to help you manage stress and improve your gut health:

• Practice deep breathing for 5 minutes daily.

• Take a 10-minute walk to clear your mind.

• Prioritize 7-8 hours of sleep each night.