Women’s health is a huge topic. There are many facets of it that you might not know about – from your menstrual health to gut health to your emotional health. It’s not uncommon for women to experience menstrual irregularities, including missed periods. We all know that our menstrual cycle is impacted by the hormones that are produced in the ovaries, but did you know that your gut also plays a role? What’s more, there are certain types of bacteria that can make your PMS symptoms worse. Gut health is important to consider when managing your period!
Over the last few decades, many women have been experiencing menstrual cycle irregularities. This includes a range of effects from a longer cycle to a shorter one, as well as more intense symptoms during PMS. In this article, we’ll be outlining how gut health can affect your menstrual cycle and what you should do to improve it!
The menstrual cycle is a woman’s monthly journey, which starts on the first day of the period, known as ‘day one’. The cycle has three phases: menstruation, follicular phase and ovulation.
What is Gut Health?
Good gut health is essential for a healthy, successful life. It’s one of the most important parts of your immune system and it affects how your immune system works. In fact, you have more bacteria in your gut than you have cells in your entire body! Gut health is closely linked to how well your body digests food and gets the nutrients it needs to thrive. It also has a lot to do with how well you absorb the vitamins and minerals your body needs for energy, mood, and to keep your immune system strong. Your gut is properly referred to as your “second brain” because it produces 90% of your serotonin, the happiness hormone and one of the most important neurotransmitters in your body. In addition, gut health can affect your stress levels and overall mood.
The gut is home to all of your intestinal bacteria and yeast. The type of bacteria and the ratio of good-to-bad bacteria can make a huge difference in your ability to lose weight. Furthermore, research has shown that some people are more sensitive to certain types of bacteria, which may cause inflammation and a breakdown of the gut wall. This can lead to a leaky gut, which triggers your immune system to attack healthy and undesired weight-loss-friendly bacteria. The gut is home to trillions of microbes and yeast, which are also called probiotics. These tiny organisms are more than just your friendly bacteria – they are a major part of your immune system, protecting you from pathogens and even cancer.
How Does Your Gut Affect Your Menstrual Cycle?
Experts say that our digestive system is the foundation of our health. The good bacteria in our stomachs can have a positive or negative impact on our overall well-being. It’s estimated that up to 70% of women suffer from some form of gut imbalance, which can affect their menstrual cycle. Women’s menstrual cycles are affected by many factors, including the gut microbiome. Research has shown that changes in what you eat can alter your gut microbiota and lead to irregular periods. It is possible that the connection between the gut and the reproductive system is explained by hormonal signaling from the gut to the brain via chemicals in our digestive tract which impact appetite, mood, energy levels, metabolism, libido, cravings, and weight.
How the Microbiome Plays a Role in Your Menstrual Cycle?
The gut microbiome is made up of trillions of microorganisms that live in the intestines. These microbes are responsible for breaking down foods, fighting off pathogens, and producing vitamins. New research suggests that these bacteria can also affect your menstrual cycle. The gut microbiome has been found to make small changes in the levels of hormones like leptin, which can lead to hormonal imbalances. This can cause irregular periods and other symptoms sometimes associated with PMS. Studies also show that women taking probiotics to balance gut bacteria may be relieved of symptoms of PMS.
Foods That Help Better Digestion
In order to help our digestive systems, we should always focus on the types of foods that will help us feel better. It is important to drink plenty of water and eat a diet high in fiber, which will keep you feeling fuller for a longer period of time. Fiber also helps food to move through your digestive system faster.
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