Reset your gut this weekend

"Listen to your gut" "Trust your gut." "Follow your gut." These may be the soundest pieces of advice for humans. They can apply to relationships, work, personal safety, any decision, big or small, and HEALTH.

An imbalanced gut can cause many symptoms and health issues.

• Upset Stomach

• Low Energy

• Food Intolerance

• Lack of Sleep

• Mental Health struggles

The digestive system has been called our second brain. When it drops these frustrating hints, we need to listen.

We have the power to take small steps to HEAL OURSELVES. First, understand why gut health matters: This system receives and processes nutrients to keep us alive. It helps fight disease, balance hormones, serve our mental health, and its health affects nearly every other organ.

Second: Take action. This weekend. Then throw in Monday for good measure.

SATURDAY:

1. Let yourself sleep in. No alarm today.

2. Drink lemon or lemon/ginger water first thing.

3. Go for a 30-minute walk outdoors.

4. Go to bed 30 minutes earlier than normal.

SUNDAY:

1. Add high-fiber foods to every meal (apples, raspberries, avocado, whole grains, dried fruits, nuts).

2. Cut out extra (simple) sugars.

3. Get dirty: Play with your dog, lay in the grass, go to the park, dig in some dirt.

4. Repeat an early bedtime to stay in sync.

MONDAY:

1. Wake up a little earlier and go outside first thing.

2. Avoid sweeteners in your morning coffee.

3. Drink 2 extra glasses of water today.

4. Make Monday meatless and aim for a high veggie day.

The rest of the week, incorporate as many of these changes as possible. Trying to change too much can lead to frustration, so if nothing else, work on nutrition. The biggest impact can come from healthier foods. Focus on MORE WHOLE FOODS & VEGETABLES.

2,000 years ago, Hippocrates is said to have stated that "all disease begins in the gut." Modern science seems to be catching up to that statement.

With time and consistency, we can change our bodies and our minds. Eventual signs that gut health is improving will include:

1. Regular bowel movements.

2. Less or no bloating.

3. More energy, sharper mental awareness.

4. Brighter and clearer skin.

5. Improved mood.