Dr. Troy Willis

Did you know that regular exercise not only affects your heart health and overall strength but can also have an impact on your gut health?

We know that exercise lowers stress levels, releases feel-good endorphins, and is good for both mental and physical health. But the benefits don’t stop there. Recent studies show that people who exercise regularly have healthier guts! One study in particular revealed that participants with healthier cardiorespiratory systems had more beneficial bacteria in their digestive systems and, as we know, a balanced gut means more energy, fewer digestive problems, better sleep and less stress.

The road to gut health isn’t always a straightforward one. It might seem like this is easy for me to say since I’ve found a path that works for me, but I know what it’s like to see the doctors who don’t seem to understand, read the books with conflicting information, and look for the “magic pill”.  I’ve dealt with the stress of socializing, wondering where the closest bathroom is. I know what it’s like to make decisions from a place of fear and I know what it’s like to be angry and discouraged. If you’ve been facing uncomfortable, even painful digestive symptoms for any length of time, it can be easy to lose heart.

I get it. I’ve been there. I understand.

Does any of this sound familiar?

I talk with my clients a lot about the puzzle pieces that all need to come together for good overall health. A balanced diet, restorative sleep, appropriate movement, and stress management are key components when considering a person’s gut healing journey.

But did you know that these components that are so vital to gut health might look different as the seasons change?

Did you know that your gut talks to your brain? No, seriously. Your digestive system contains millions of neurons that communicate with your brain in order to keep things running smoothly—or not so smoothly. In fact, the gut is often referred to as “the second brain”.