Hippocrates said it, can it be true? Does all disease start in the gut?
There is a hidden truth within our bodies — an ancient wisdom that has long been understood but today, is forgotten.
At the heart of this wisdom lies gut health, a complex and remarkable system designed to detoxify our daily intake in ways only nature could have perfected. Many modern diseases stem from an imbalanced gut, a consequence of our body’s inability to efficiently eliminate toxins. Over time, these toxins accumulate, leading to various health issues that previous generations may not have encountered at such alarming rates.
Nearly 2,500 years ago, Hippocrates, the Greek physician, famously stated: “All disease begins in the gut.” While some may debate the absolute nature of this claim, recent research suggests that over 95% of diseases have a direct or indirect link to gut health. Imagine that — more than 95% of illnesses could potentially be prevented or mitigated by simply maintaining a healthy gut.
Even mental health is intricately connected to the gut. Did you know that serotonin receptors in the gut play a crucial role in mood regulation? The gut-brain axis directly links gut health to emotional well-being. An imbalance in gut serotonin levels can significantly impact mood, anxiety, and overall mental health. No wonder we often refer to “gut feelings” — there is scientific truth behind the phrase.
The Rise of Colon Cancer in Younger Generations
Why are younger generations experiencing increasing rates of colon cancer? Numerous articles, including a recent piece in The New York Times, have highlighted this concerning trend. This raises a crucial question: What changed in our society compared to our ancestors?
Is it our lifestyle?
Is it our food?
Is it our stress levels?
The answer to all these questions is YES.
Steps to Maintain a Healthy Gut
To protect and restore gut health, consider these essential steps:
- Daily Bowel Movements
Having just two to three bowel movements per week is not normal. The human body is designed to eliminate toxins daily. Without regular elimination, toxins accumulate, leading to fatigue, bloating, indigestion, and gas. Ensuring daily bowel movements is critical for gut health (more on this in a future discussion). - Mindful Eating
The phrase “you are what you eat” holds profound truth. Processed and ultra-processed foods often linger in the gut, forming indigestible masses that sit in the colon for years, potentially leading to colon disorders and even cancer. Instead, focus on:
- Warm, freshly cooked meals
- A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and probiotics
- Lentils, green leafy vegetables, and fiber-rich foods to promote healthy digestion
3. Movement & Exercise
A healthy gut requires movement — both internally and externally. A sedentary lifestyle inhibits digestion and slows down peristalsis, the natural movement of food through the digestive system. Incorporate daily walks, starting with just 10 minutes in the morning (ideally in the sunlight for a natural dose of vitamin D). Movement throughout the day helps promote digestion and regular elimination of toxins.
4. Managing Stress
Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which directly impacts gut health. We are all constantly at a “fight or flight” status, meaning we are keeping our cortisol levels at a high level at all times, considering it now to be the norm by our bodies. This leads to chronic inflammation in our bodies and especially in our gut. Take the time to breath in and out slowly. Find ways to incorporate meditation in your daily routine. (More on this in a future discussion.)
Final Thought
Next time you reach for a meal, pause and reflect — what’s in it, and how will it impact your gut? Together, we can take proactive steps to prevent disease before it manifests by prioritizing our food choices and nurturing our gut health.
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