It’s been called the second brain. That’s how powerful it is. The gut, your microbiome, is at the center of your health and how you feel. Now, this special edition is your ultimate guide to understanding and nurturing your wellness. Start with a user's guide to the gut-brain connection. Then, learn the importance of probiotics and what foods are packed with them. Reconsider the disruptive disorders like Crohn's Disease and IBS, the powerful effects of coffee and alcohol, and the role of stress in an upset stomach. Get clear advice from gut-health experts, recipes to improve your mood, and even insight about how man's best friend could improve your microbiome. Let this special edition help you restore and maintain digestive health at the center of it all.
THE POWER OF A HEALTHY GUT • The balance of bacteria and other bugs in your GI system impacts your health in surprising ways. Experts are still unraveling the microbiome’s full potential.
WHAT’S IN YOUR GUT OPENER • A road map through digestive wellness.
A USER’S GUIDE TO THE GUT-BRAIN CONNECTION • The axis that connects the brain, central nervous system, and digestive tract is the basis for understanding our microbiome and nurturing all of our gut feelings.
10 PROBIOTIC-PACKED FOODS • Foods with healthy bacteria can help you get slim, stay healthy, and feel better than ever. Reap the benefits of the best probiotic foods.
IMPROVING THE PATH TO DIGESTIVE WELLNESS • While gut health has become a hot topic in recent years, improving accessibility of vital resources and support is crucial.
DIGESTIVE DISTRESS OPENER • When tummy trouble gets serious.
THE INTOLERANCES • Food intolerances are on the rise—but thankfully, so are the options for diagnosing, understanding, and managing these potentially debilitating conditions.
CROHN’S DISEASE EXPLAINED • Here is a rundown of the cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for living with this GI issue.
HEALTHY EATING FOR CROHN’S DISEASE • Crohn’s can feel difficult to manage, but you can avoid discomfort and enjoy food with these strategies.
THE INS AND OUTS OF IBS • Nobody likes to talk about bathroom troubles—but ignoring irritable bowel syndrome can make the symptoms much worse. Experts share what you need to know about this digestive disorder.
EVERYONE THINKS I’M THE PICTURE OF HEALTH • After she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, Holly Schmidt had to adjust to her new normal of battling an invisible illness. Here’s her personal account of what that means and what daily life is like.
THE IBD BREAKDOWN • Often misdiagnosed and mistaken for one another, these are the types of IBDs, their differences, and how to manage them.
GOOD GUT, GOOD MOOD • Science tells us that probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber are just some of the key nutrients for feeling optimal inside and out. Here are some recipes to nurture these good vibes.
THE FEEL-GOOD LIFESTYLE OPENER • Everyday methods for nurturing your gut.
HOW DOCTORS TAKE CARE OF THEIR GUTS • Eating fiber, timing their meals, getting a restful night’s sleep. Such core principles guide these experts as they nurture their gut health.
FEELING STRESSED? WHY YOU MAY FEEL IT IN YOUR GUT • Busy week at work? Big family gathering coming up? Stressful events or lingering anxiety could wreak havoc on your digestive system.
5 WAYS TO BOOST YOUR KIDS’ GUT HEALTH • If you want to set them up for a lifetime of good health, strive to bolster the bacteria in their bellies. Microbiologist and mom Erica Sonnenburg shares these science-based strategies for doing just that.
THE COFFEE & ALCOHOL BUZZ • The impact of your morning caffeine fix and happy-hour go-to on your overall digestive health.
THE ANIMAL EFFECT • Whether...