A recent study shows that 74% of Americans live with some form of gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort.

Do you fall into that category? If so, it’s time to fix your gut from the inside out.

While there are certain medical conditions that can lead to tummy troubles, a few simple diet and exercise tweaks can often help reverse the discomfort.

Today, we’re taking a look at a few ways you can help balance your GI tract, so you can reclaim your quality of life.

Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in!

1. Kick Saturated Fats to the Curb

Yes, few meals taste as satisfying as a juicy burger. Yet, if you really want to improve gut health, you’ll need to limit the saturated fats in your diet.

Scientists now know that these unhealthy fats can lead to bowel disease. In short, they upset the balance of good bacteria in your gut and instead introduce more harmful bacteria.

The result? Your stomach makes more bile, your intestinal walls weaken and you’re rushing to the bathroom in no time.

Want to eat more foods that promote gut health? Try looking for ones high in Omega 3s. These fatty acids found in nuts and some fish are full of anti-inflammatory properties.

2. Exercise More

Want another reason to hit the ground running?

A great workout adds more oxygen to your blood. This helps revitalize your GI tract and also kickstarts your enzymes to process and break down your food.

3. Try a Little TLC

Book a vacation, draw a hot bath or take a walk outside. It’s no secret that there’s a connection between your brain and your gut.

When you’re stressed or anxious, you may notice that your stomach problems flare up. This isn’t a coincidence. It’s your body’s way of telling you to indulge in some self-care, ASAP.

4. Consider Prebiotics or Probiotics

They’ve become buzzwords in the health industry, but these organisms stand up to the hype.

Found in cultured dairy products like yogurt, as well as honey, whole grains, and even artichokes, they can help encourage healthy gut flora. Incorporate a few into your diet to see if it makes a difference.

Add added benefit? Going a natural route like this can help you prevent any negative side effects of prescription drugs. This post from Microbe Formulas says that diarrhea is listed as a possible adverse side effect on the label of over 700 different medications!

5. Get Some Vitamin D

Go outside and soak up some rays! Scientists say that vitamin D can help quell an upset stomach. This is because it’s actually a group of fat-soluble prohormones that help balance your body’s levels of calcium and phosphorus.

Don’t live in a sunny locale? Try a vitamin D supplement to achieve the same effect, consulting with your doctor for the correct dosage.

Fix Your Gut, One Step at a Time

Your GI tract is sensitive, and even the smallest change can inflame or upset it.

As such, it can be difficult to keep it balanced, especially if you’ve dealt with stomach issues your whole life.

The good news? It’s possible to fix your gut if you take the right precautions and follow these simple steps.

Want more lifestyle tips you can use? Keep reading our blog!