Gut Secrets You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Fuel Your Microbes
Shine From Within
In this Newsletter:
➡️ Fun facts about your gut
➡️ Why you should care
➡️ Signs your gut might be in trouble
➡️ Viktorija’s tips how to nourish your gut after antibiotics
Ever felt butterflies in your stomach when nervous, or bloated after a big meal? I sure have! Those gut feelings are more than just quirks of digestion – they're signals from a complex system inside you. Modern science shows gut health is linked to everything from mood swings and cravings to immunity.
But before we get serious, here are five fascinating facts that highlight how remarkable your gut really is:
You are more microbial than human. An estimated 1000+ species of bacteria live in your gut (trillions of organisms in total), so in a sense, you're as much bacteria as human
Your gut microbiome weighs around 2–5 pounds in total – roughly the weight of your brain.
The gut contains ~100 million neurons (about as many as the spinal cord). This “second brain” independently controls digestion and constantly chats with your main brain about how you feel.
About 90% of your serotonin (a key mood-regulator) is produced in the gut. Your gut bugs play a big role in mental wellness.
Your gut bugs are also supplement makers – certain microbes produce B vitamins and even supply up to half of your daily vitamin K needs.
Meet Your Gut Microbiome: Why You Should Care
I guess you already got the idea: your gut isn't just digesting lunch – it's hosting a microscopic community that keeps you thriving.
What are these tiny tenants up to?
For starters, they're breaking down the parts of food you can't digest, turning fibers into useful nutrients. Others ferment fiber from veggies and grains into beneficial molecules that strengthen your gut lining and support digestion. In fact, a healthy microbiome can even help control your immune system.
In short, your gut microbiome helps regulate digestion, immunity, hormones, and even mood. When they're in harmony, you tend to feel good all over. When they're out of balance, problems can show up in surprising places.
👉 Interesting Fact: About 70% of immune cells in your body are found in the gut
Signs Your Gut May Be In Trouble
Watch for these common signs:
Digestive problems: chronic bloating, gas, constipation or diarrhea, food sensitivities & nutrient deficiencies
❗Intense sugar cravings
❗Fatigue, brain fog, headaches, migraine
❗Skin issues: skin conditions like acne or eczema
❗Mood problems: anxiety, depression, or frequent irritability
❗Autoimmune issues
The culprits behind an unhealthy gut are often lifestyle-related– a diet high in sugar, artificial additives and processed foods, chronic stress (and poor sleep), frequent antibiotic use, birth control and heavy alcohol intake can all disrupt your microbiome.
The good news is that you have a lot of control over these factors. By tweaking some daily habits, you can start healing your gut.
Viktorija’s Top Tips to Nourish Your Microbiome
I used to deal with multiple recurrent UTIs a year, which meant I was often on antibiotics. While those meds took care of the infections, they also messed up with my gut. I’d have acne, feel bloated, sluggish, and just “off” long after each treatment. Good thing - there are ways you can help your gut heal faster.
Here are the three strategies that always make a real difference for me:
🌱 Probiotic Foods
Sauerkraut is my go to fermented food. Even though I don’t really like the taste of it, I add a spoonful of sauerkraut to meals. Other fermented foods like kimchi or kefir give your gut a steady supply of live, friendly microbes too.
🌱 Quality Probiotic Supplements
I start a high-quality probiotic right after (and sometimes during) an antibiotic course. It helps “reseed” my gut with beneficial bacteria and dramatically reduced the lingering bloating and digestive discomfort.
🌱 Soothing Teas (Ginger + Turmeric + Chamomile)
Whenever I feel my stomach and gut are acting up, I reach for this calming trio. Ginger and turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while chamomile can help settle the gut-brain axis (aka the connection between your gut and mind).
Of course, general good habits - like eating more fiber, managing stress, and staying active - also help. But if you’re fresh off a round of antibiotics (or just want to level up your gut health), try these simple tweaks. They worked for me, and I hope they bring you some relief, too!
👉 Note: What works for me may not necessarily work for you. Don’t give up! Experiment and find what works best for your gut.
Empower Your Inner Hero
Think of your gut like a hidden superhero - quietly defending your health every day. By fine-tuning your diet, dialing down stress, and moving your body, you give that hero the support it needs to keep you feeling your best. Progress doesn’t require perfection; just start with one mindful swap (like an extra serving of veggies or a walk outdoors).
Do you have a personal gut-friendly tip that’s worked wonders? I’d love to hear - simply hit “reply”! And if you learned something here, pass it along to a friend who could use a little gut support.
Here’s to better digestion, brighter moods, and a healthier you!