The term "gut health" is often thrown around, but how much do we really understand about what it means — or how crucial our gut is to overall wellbeing?
For example, did you know that your gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms? Far from being passive passengers, these microbes play a central role in your digestion, immune system regulation, inflammation control and perhaps even your mental health.
A Diverse Gut Is a Healthy Gut
Research shows that traditional human populations — such as hunter-gatherers and pre-industrial agrarian societies — typically had much more diverse gut microbiomes than people living in modern, industrialised environments today.
One of the main drivers of this decline in microbial diversity is dietary change. Modern diets are often:
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Low in fibre
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High in ultra-processed foods
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Full of artificial preservatives and additives
These factors contribute to what some scientists now call "microbial extinction" or the "disappearing microbiome" — a loss of beneficial bacteria that can have a significant impact on our health.
The Consequences of Dysbiosis
When microbial diversity declines, it can lead to an imbalance in the gut known as dysbiosis. This disrupted state has been linked to a wide range of health issues, including:
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Digestive disorders (such as IBS or bloating)
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Immune dysfunction
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Hormone imbalances
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Inflammation
More recently, certain studies have suggested that dysbiosis may be connected to mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, highlighting just how far-reaching the effects of gut health may be.
The Gut-Brain Axis: A Two-Way Conversation
One of the key pathways through which the gut may influence mental health is the gut-brain axis — a bidirectional communication system that links the digestive system to the brain.
There are two main ways this connection operates:
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Physically, via the vagus nerve, a key channel that transmits signals directly between the gut and the brain.
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Chemically, via neurotransmitters produced by gut bacteria, including:
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Serotonin – regulates mood and wellbeing (around 90% is made in the gut)
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Dopamine – involved in motivation and pleasure
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GABA – helps calm the nervous system
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When the gut microbiome is out of balance, it may disrupt the production and regulation of these neurotransmitters, potentially playing a role in mental health challenges.
Supporting Your Gut, Naturally
At the heart of a healthy gut is a diverse, well-fed microbiome — and diet is one of the most effective ways to support it.
That’s why all of our bars are:
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Free from preservatives and additives
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Made from just six natural ingredients
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Rich in whole-food nutrients
Our Digest Bar is specifically formulated to support your gut and digestive health. With high-fibre ingredients that promote microbial diversity and encourage digestive regularity, it helps nurture the gut-brain connection — enhancing both physical and mental wellbeing, one bite at a time.
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