Did you know that the gut is also referred to as the second brain? Your gut plays quite a significant role in your overall health than you might think. But one of its key effects is on the heart, informed Dr Rohith P Reddy, Consultant, Interventional Cardiologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, while talking to the team of OnlyMyHealth.
As per a recent study led by Uppsala University and Lund University, researchers discovered a link between the gut and a build-up of fatty and cholesterol deposits, which are a major risk factor for heart attacks.
Understanding The Gut-Heart Connection
"Our gut is home to millions of bacteria that secrete several enzymes which help in absorption of nutrients and medicines, and prevent microbial infections. There are vast amounts of scientific evidence that proves that a healthy gut is essential in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels in the body," shared Dr Reddy.
Here's how the gut microbiome affects heart health:
- Inflammation Control: A balanced gut envious helps regulate inflammation throughout the body. Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for heart disease.
- Lower Cholesterol: Some gut bacteria have been linked to cholesterol metabolism. An imbalance in these microbes can contribute to higher levels of bad cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease.
- Blood Pressure Regulation: Gut bacteria play a role in producing substances that influence blood pressure. An imbalance in these bacteria can lead to hypertension, another heart disease risk factor.
- Metabolism and Weight Management: The gut microbiome influences how your body processes and stores fat. An unhealthy gut can contribute to obesity, which is closely linked to heart problems.
Healthy Diet That Supports Gut Health for a Healthy Heart
"Feel your gut but follow your heart, as the saying goes applies to your heart health as well. We all have known for many ages now that consuming healthy food is of utmost importance for the well-being of not only the heart but the general well-being of the whole body," said Dr Reddy.
Urging everyone to eat healthy to support this gut-heart connection, she added, "I would like to reiterate what we all know, which is prevention is better than cure, and this holds true under all circumstances of day-to-day health and living. So eat healthy!"
Also Read: Raisin Yoghurt Can Do Wonders For Your Gut: Doctor Explains How It Aids Digestion
Sharing dietary tips that can boost your gut health and ultimately your heart health, she listed:
- Your diet should consist of plenty of fibre in the form of fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh fruits and vegetables also have many antioxidant properties which prevent cardiovascular diseases and protect your heart and body.
- Adequate quantities of legumes and nuts should also be consumed.
- Practise proper hand hygiene and washing practices to prevent gut infestation.
- Do not consume antibiotics unless it is prescribed to you by your doctor. This can damage your gut flora and induce diarrhoea. Additionally, unsupervised use of antibiotics may cause antibiotic resistance which can allow harmful bacteria to thrive in your gut.
- Taking probiotic agents such as curd can help replenish the normal gut flora.
- Excessive salt in the diet elevates the blood pressure and can result in hypertension. It's best to use it in moderation and avoid it as much as possible.
In conclusion, your gut microbiome is a vital player in the complex symphony of your overall health, including heart health. By making mindful choices to nurture your gut, you can potentially reduce your risk of heart disease. Remember that a diverse, fibre-rich diet, probiotics, stress management, and a healthy lifestyle all contribute to maintaining a harmonious gut-heart connection. Prioritise gut health and your heart will thank you for it.