What influences the gut?

Everything from poor dietary choices to jumping hemispheres can affect your intestinal wellbeing. Which of these are most relevant to you? 1

Routine Changes

Schedule disruptions and new environments can negatively influence the gut’s normal flora balance, often after being exposed to unfamiliar foods. One may also experience appetite loss, or the need for rushed eating, causing confusion in the gut and triggering symptomatic response.2,3

Travel

Traveling commonly leads to exposure to pathogenic bacteria or a case of travelers’ diarrhea. Pathogenic bacteria and parasites are commonly passed through food, water and surfaces, leading to an uncomfortable increase of stool production. 4

Nutrition

An imbalanced diet is one of the main causes of recurring intestinal discomfort in both adults and children. Food lacking in vitamins, minerals and fibre may be negatively affecting your overall gut health. 5

Stress

Excessive stress may result in a significant loss of appetite, in turn affecting normal digestion by slowing it down. Stress can also trigger more intense gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea, constipation, cramping and gas retention. 6,7

Antibiotics and Drugs

Prescription medications, including antibiotics, usually slow the growth of good gut bacteria, which may result in intestinal discomfort and an imbalance that can be difficult to bounce back from without help. 8

Stay Informed