A top nutritionist has called for Brits to return to ‘back to basics’ in terms of gut health, following a study that found nearly half are confused by nutritional advice.
Food specialist Farzanah Nasser argues that in a society fixated on supplements and quick solutions, we’ve overlooked the simplest and most effective method to support our gut – through pure, natural foods that have been consumed for centuries.
Indeed, many people are opting for supplements before whole foods such as kefir, fresh fruit, and fibre-rich grains, missing out on the natural advantages these traditional foods offer.
However, with an abundance of conflicting guidance, many are uncertain about how to nourish their gut in a manner that is both natural and sustainable.
The study found that 46% find advice on gut health ‘overwhelming’, and despite 68% researching the topic, they remain unsure about the best approach to stay healthy.
Farzanah Nasser, who is collaborating with natural gut health specialists, Biotiful Gut Health, which commissioned the research, said it’s encouraging to see Brits becoming more aware of their gut health but emphasises the need to go ‘back to the basics’.
“Supporting your gut health does not need to be complicated,” Farzanah stated, “the most effective way to improve gut health can be through diet and lifestyle.
“Including more fermented foods, such as Kefir, which is rich in live cultures, for 14 days, alongside plants, could be beneficial to increasing healthy bacteria in your gut.
“Rather than get lost in fads and quick fixes, we should take a food-first approach to support a healthy digestive system, and our overall wellbeing.”
The survey revealed that only 22% of participants actively try to do something to support their gut health daily, but the main obstacles many others face in improving this area is not knowing what actually works and struggling to maintain consistency.
Among those who do make an effort, eating fresh fruit and vegetables and fibre-rich foods were the most common methods. Nutritionist Farzanah Nasser IFMCP, added: “Maintaining a healthy gut is not just about digestion gut health has a positive impact on almost every system in the body.”
“By improving our gut health, we can experience benefits ranging from stronger immunity, reduced bloating, better weight management, to improved mood and lower anxiety and stress.
“Beyond this, gut health can also be linked to improved sleep, better performance, energy, memory, focus, and skin.”
Natasha Bowes, founder and CEO of Biotiful Gut Health, which has launched the two-week Gut Health Reset Challenge, stated: “We believe in the power of whole, nutritious and natural foods to support overall health, starting with natural gut health.
“A healthy gut is a catalyst for good overall health and wellbeing, and natural, fermented kefir can play a huge role in achieving this balance.
“While supplements can play a role in health, they should complement, not replace, real nutrition.”