Have you ever felt “butterflies” in your stomach before a big presentation? Or noticed digestive discomfort during periods of high stress? These experiences occur because the gut and the brain are in constant communication through a complex network known as the gut-brain axis (GBA)—and this relationship plays a major role in both digestive, emotional and overall health.
Gut health plays a critical role in overall well-being. One of the key elements of maintaining a healthy gut is the integrity of the intestinal mucosal lining. This lining acts as a barrier between the contents of our digestive system and underlying tissues, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream.
Sleep is considered to be the third pillar of health, alongside exercise and nutrition. Yet, 1 in 3 Americans do not get the recommended amount of quality sleep on a daily basis, and only 32% of Americans consider their sleep “excellent” or “very good.”1 Sleep is an essential part of our lives, taking up a third of our day, and getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall health and wellbeing.