The dreaded saying, "we are what we eat," seems to be gaining more truth with each passing day. Have you ever experienced the feeling of being constantly sluggish, lacking energy, and feeling under the weather? Surprisingly, these symptoms may be a result of poor gut health. When it comes to our overall well-being, we often overlook the significant role our gut plays in influencing our energy levels. While these symptoms may not be commonly associated with gut disturbances, they should be taken just as seriously.
Let’s explore why nurturing your gut is crucial for achieving optimal energy levels and overall wellness.
A Quick Refresh on the Gut Brain Axis
Our Central Nervous System (CNS) has a bidirectional link to the Enteric Nervous System (ENS) in our gut. These two systems are so interconnected that they actually developed from the same tissue in the womb, and in many ways mirror each other in structure. Our gut and brain are connected through the vagus nerve, which allows the gut to influence various brain functions such as mood, cognition and energy levels. Therefore, if we are experiencing bad gut health, it tends to present itself in our mood and energy levels.
Gut Microbiome Imbalance
Not only is our gut responsible for digestion, but it is also home to trillions of microorganisms which make up our gut microbiome. When our gut microbiome gets out of balance, known as dysbiosis, it can have a huge impact on our mental wellbeing and physical health. With the majority (95%) of serotonin, the hormone responsible for regulating our mood and sleep, being made in the gut, we can begin to understand how much our gut influences our energy.
When our gut microbiome gets disturbed, it can directly impact on the number of neurotransmitters sent to help us regulate our sleep and consequently impact our energy levels and mood the next day.
That Lethargic Feeling
For optimal nutrient absorption we need to have a healthy gut. When our gut microbiota gets disturbed, and our stomach lining becomes inflamed or damaged, it can compromise the absorption of crucial nutrients. Without these key nutrients such as Vitamin B and magnesium, it may result in feelings of lethargy.
How to Regain That Bounce in Your Step
Fortunately, there are effective ways to improve our gut health and restore a harmonious balance in the gut microbiota.
Probiotics, often referred to as the ‘good bacteria’, play a crucial role in rebalancing the gut microbiome. Incorporating probiotics into our diets can be done through fermented foods like yoghurt, as well as through supplements or probiotic concentrates. Our Meluka Probiotic Concentrate range offers the convenience of six multi-strains of probiotics in one product.
When it comes to combating fatigue, stress, and tiredness, we highly recommend our Complete Gut Nutrition System as total gut health reset. This comprehensive system is specifically designed to target and support various gut health needs. It combines a blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotic strains, along with superfood ingredients carefully selected to enhance gut health.
Probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum has been shown to help support the increase of nutrient absorption and as a result improve energy levels. Scientific studies report that Lactobacillus Rhamnosus Beebiotic MAP01®, the unique probiotic strain found in our beehives and in our Complete Gut Nutrition System, increases gut microbial diversity, improving metabolic health and mood.
For more reading on the gut brain axis, check out our previous blog post here.
