Gut Health--Why Some Foods May Not Agree

Have you ever wondered why certain foods "just don’t agree" with you? Or why something you ate caused such distress to your digestive system? The explanation might be deeper than you think.

It all starts in the gut. Emerging research reveals that our gut microbiome communicates with the rest of our body, and when this communication breaks down, it opens the door for diseases to develop. In today's world, maintaining the delicate balance of organisms in our gut has become increasingly challenging. Highly processed foods tend to feed harmful bacteria, leading to an imbalance known as dysbiosis.

The term “leaky gut” refers to a condition where the intestinal wall, which is naturally permeable, becomes damaged, allowing particles to leak out. When the intestinal lining tears, it allows food and toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation—often at the root of these issues.

When the body perceives certain foods as toxins, inflammation ensues. These toxins can damage the gut lining, permitting substances that should be expelled from the body to enter the bloodstream. The immune system then springs into action, leading to food sensitivities and allergies.

Variations in gut microbiome composition and function have been linked to a range of chronic diseases, from gastrointestinal, inflammatory, and metabolic conditions to neurological, cardiovascular, and respiratory illnesses. The microbiome not only directly impacts disease but also influences organs, mucosa, and immune function.

Inflammation truly begins with what’s on your fork. To sustain life, food must be thoughtful and nourishing. A recent study focusing on women revealed a nearly 20-year gap between lifespan and health span. This means that by age 62, many women will develop some type of disease or debilitating issue that prevents them from enjoying life fully. Our medical system, which often treats symptoms with medication, may extend the suffering for another two decades.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. We each have the power to heal our bodies and live the life we desire. It might not be easy at first, but once the foundation is set, momentum builds. The key is to start—anywhere. Today, it might be avoiding fast food. Tomorrow, it could be adding a green, leafy salad to your menu. The next day, taking a brisk walk. Remember, it’s a lifestyle, not a quick fix or diet program.

As a dental hygienist with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen my patients accumulate more hospital visits, medications, and limitations on the activities they once enjoyed. There's a mindset that these declines are just part of aging, but I challenge you to think differently. Set a new course for yourself, and know that I’m here to support you every step of the way!

Fly

A little of this and a little of that….

Sounds like a recipe? Well, for me, it’s my life.  While some people can pick a lane and travel through life with one occupation, mine, well, let’s just say, I’ve been on many roads.  In part, I think, it is due to my dosha, Vata, which is air/ether. Structure isn’t necessary for me as a whole and that becomes a problem only when trying to accomplish a large task.  Oh, I’ll get it done, but I’ll be distracted along the way, so just be patient.

Distractions keep me from focus. I know that I’m easily distracted by all the activities and interests I have.  On any given week, I facilitate an online BS degree program, work clinical dental hygiene, dabble in my world of herbology/health promotion, work behind the scenes at the dental practice in HR, manage AirBNB rentals, and block time for social events.  I love all the things I do and have difficulty letting anything go.  I keep saying, “Yes!” 

I do wonder what it is that holds me back from busting out of the gate with my wellness model?  My passion is to assist people in their health journey and help heal diseased bodies. To be completely vulnerable, I would say it’s fear of failure, so I just keep it as a side hustle, make excuses that I’m too busy, and down play what I can offer.

What if? What if? What if?  I’m embarrassed to tell you how many times that same question goes through my head.  Fear, not courage, is what normally enters my being.  When I ask myself why some people are successful and others are not, what I come up with each time is the successful person, even though they may be fearful, they go for it.  I call that courageous.  Courage is being afraid, yet doing it anyway.

 So how does one overcome something so large….like fear of failure?

“Don’t let the fear of falling keep you from flying.”

Recently, a woman confided that she, too, has made decisions based on fear.  She reported that fear has prevented her from doing things she has aspired to do. Then she said something that stuck.  “Don’t let the fear of falling keep you from flying.”  This was told to her by a close family member as she was trying to decide whether or not to take the next step in her career.  With that in mind, she decided to do just that…fly.

How can I overcome my fears and people pleasing tendencies to rise above and live my purpose?  I’ve decided to keep the word, “fly” on the forefront of my mind as a simple reminder that time does not stop, it keeps flying whether I’m in this world or not.  What will be my contribution?  I love the image of the hummingbird. They are beautiful, graceful, strong, and tenacious. As I reflect on what I want for this coming year, I’ve put into place some new practices to help overcome these fears and create a foundation for success.

First of all, it’s important to put a name with the fear.  Sitting quietly in meditation and observing the body’s responses to thoughts and feelings.  A daily practice of meditation will help gain greater clarity and bring forth those fears to confront. Set aside time to just be.

Sitting with my fear during this mediation time or reflection is important.  Often times, I make quick decisions that I later realize were not in my best interest.  Rather, it’s better to do nothing and allow time for the mind to think about that fear, reflect on it so it can be productive, deliberate and be effective.

Goal setting is necessary for clarity in moving toward the desired outcome.  During those meditation and reflective times, imagine the success has already happened.  Allow the mind and body to feel the accomplishments.  Allowing the mind to experience success will help drown out fear.

Stop making excuses! With all the interests I have, it’s very easy for me to make excuses as to why I haven’t accomplished my desires (not addressing the fears, which is the root cause).  Making excuses will ultimately leave me unfulfilled and empty.  I will need to take a different, proactive approach.  One of which is setting up my priorities and goal setting for periods of time that are achievable and measurable.  That way, I can see the success, even if it is a small feat.

If you are like me, distracted and fearful, then come along and try something different.  Make a commitment to yourself to build success one block at a time.  Fly high or fall with fear. There’s the choice.

1—Mediate—discover the root of the fear

2—Sit with the fear—give it a name

3—Goal set—see your success as already completed

4—No excuses—prioritize 

This year, make it the best one yet! Fly with success!