Stomach acid, or hydrochloric acid (HCl), is essential for healthy digestion. It's responsible for the digestion of carbohydrates and proteins in the stomach. Without enough stomach acid, we cannot break down our food properly. This can leave us feeling bloated or full very quickly.
URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Urinary tract infections (UTI's) are common and annoying. They are generally caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the urethra/urinary tract - commonly the culprit is E.coli. Usually there should be a relative abundance of good bacteria - Lactobacillus - which keeps the E.coli at bay, however when this bacterial balance becomes imbalanced, E.coli can overgrow and a UTI can rear it's head.
BOOSTING IMMUNITY
It's that time of year again... cold and flu season. What we eat, drink and think has a dramatic effect on our immune system and general health and wellbeing. Here are my top tips for preventing colds and flus...
THE VAGUS NERVE
The vagus nerve is the 10th cranial nerve and is the longest nerve in the body. It is the nerve that connects the brain to the digestive system and vice versa. The gut-brain axis is controlled by the vagus nerve. Activation of the vagus nerve can be beneficial in treating both digestive disorders and supporting healthy mood.
GUT HEALING FOODS
As a naturopath and nutritionist, I'm often asked which foods are helpful to "heal the gut". In chronic digestive conditions, the best advice is to seek 1:1 advice from a professional as what you need will differ from what someone else needs. Testing is always helpful. However for the general population who are looking to improve their gut health, the following foods may be beneficial...
GUT BACTERIA 101
Gut health has become a hot topic in recent years. Gut bacteria, probiotics and prebiotics are all the rage and there are many many products which have entered the market, promising good digestion, glowing skin and optimal health. But what exactly is gut bacteria?
SILLY SEASON SURVIVAL TIPS
The Christmas parties have well and truly begun and the frivolities are showing no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Here are our top tips for surviving the festive season.