Exercise can change your gut for the better!

Research shows that exercise, even without dietary intervention, can lead to an increase in beneficial bacteria. Certain bacteria produce fatty acids, which are essential in strengthening the immune system, regulating metabolism, reducing inflammation, and preventing cancer.

Our entire body is comprised of an interconnected system with each aspect of our health affecting the others. Therefore, utilizing healthy interventions to strengthen and benefit your gut is not out of question. In fact, exercise has been shown to even change your gut’s microbiome!

While dietary action is equally as important in maintaining a state of well-being, exercise is crucial for optimal health when it comes to our guts, brains, and bodies! Between jobs, families, and everyday obligations, carving out time for physical activity can be challenging in today’s world. However, remind yourself that even a few minutes of movement between conference calls or appointments can make a profound difference!

Making movement every single day keeps the dangers of being sedentary at bay. If you, like most people, are struggling to prioritize your time, there is no better place to start than this 7-minute workout. Here are some strategies for making exercise a routine in your everyday life:

1. Make it a priority and think ahead. Human nature dictates that we are more likely to exercise if we make it easy for ourselves. Get your sneakers out of the closet, choose whatever clothing you’ll be most comfortable in for walking, and make sure it’s clean and accessible. Let’s get the obstacle of preparation out of the way so you’re ready to lace up and go.
2. Do it first thing in the morning. We all know how easily pushing exercise to the back burner and subsequently neglecting it can become. Do your daily exercise first thing in the morning to jumpstart your metabolism and set your day on the right course.
3. Make it fun. Getting into great shape doesn’t mean hours at the gym, plodding along on elliptical machines, or suffering through classes lead by punishing drill-sergeant instructors. While I hate to exercise, I love to play. I find different things that keep me fit. I encourage you to explore all the fun things you may enjoy and save exercise for those times when you just can’t find a way to play on your own or with someone else. Vary up your routine and above all, make it fun. Some of my favorite ways to play include:
   • Playing a game like tennis, squash, tag, capture the flag, basketball, soccer, or volleyball.
   • Join a sports league where you can play in regular games with others of your skill level.
   • Find a friend to bike, walk, run, hike, or dance with.
   • Do seasonal exercise—cross-country ski or snowshoe in the winter, and then swim in a pond or walk on the beach in the summer. Keep it varied and interesting.
   • Take a spin or dance class, like Zumba. Group exercise makes it easier.
   • Do something different every day or at least every week.