The gut-skin connection is a complex relationship by which the entire body is affected. As Hippocrates once said, “All disease begins in the gut” and an unhealthy gut means increased risk to your overall wellness. In this article, we break down this gut-skin relationship and how improving gut health can help mean healthy, glowing skin.

THE GUT

Over 70% of your body’s immune system is located in the gut – where a myriad of bacteria interacts. There is “bad” bacteria, which can contribute to the cause of disease, and “good” bacteria with the responsibility of creating balance and harmony, which directly affects your digestive health. Bacteria in the gut is often referred to as the microbiome and acts as a second brain for your body. An unhealthy gut can easily affect your body’s immune health, digestion, and even other organs, including the skin.

THE SKIN

As the largest organ in your body, the skin is the outer barrier responsible for: protecting your body from environmental elements, regulating body temperature, and communicating sensations of touch to the rest of the body. In the same way, you have heard how a poor diet can lead to breakouts and skin irritation, an unbalanced gut can cause a number of well-known skin conditions: acne, rosacea & eczema.

DIET MATTERS

Your daily diet is the key contributor to your skin health because the gut microbiome is responsible for the proper breakdown and absorption of the essential nutrients you consume that fuel your body’s overall health. As mentioned earlier, “good” bacteria is important for creating a balance in the gut and avoiding inflammation that is often caused by an overload of bad and harmful bacteria.

Probiotics help introduce good bacteria that increase the absorption of nutrients in your body, thus fueling your skin with the right essentials it needs to thrive. Digestive enzymes help different food break down for better absorption in your gut and it is necessary to incorporate them with probiotics. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, yogurt, and pickles have been linked to improved skin as they contain high levels of bacteria that can only benefit the gut.

HOW TO IMPROVE GUT HEALTH

• Incorporate more plant-based foods in your diet – fruits, vegetables, and whole grains feed healthy bacteria
• Avoid highly processed foods – these can either increase “bad” bacteria or suppress the “good” bacteria in the gut
• Exercise regularly – find creative ways to move throughout the day to promote movement in the gut
• Include probiotics foods/supplements – Advanced Probiotics contain strains of Microflora and billions of bacterial cultures which help promote nutrient absorption and “good” bacteria in the gut. Digestive Enzymes are another great supplement to help deal with the “post-meal bloat” and regulate gut bacteria to support digestive health.
• Manage stress – consider journaling, meditation, or an extra hour of sleep to help control anxiety levels

THE BOTTOM LINE

Your body is all connected. The GUT and BRAIN are all connected. Researchers have recently stated that your GUT is your second brain. Thus, your diet plays a role and a healthy gut begins with choosing a health-focused lifestyle and balanced eating habits. Examine your daily habits, daily diet, and the current state of your health to determine the right adjustments you need in order to improve your gut health & the look of your skin!