Good gut health may play an important role in supporting cardiovascular health, according to experts at ThedaCare.
“There is a direct connection between gut health and heart health,” said Tara Lord, a registered dietitian with ThedaCare. “It is no coincidence that health recommendations for the gut are consistent with those for the heart.”
An estimated 80% to 90% of heart disease is preventable. Diet can play a role in prevention of heart disease and stroke, said Michelle Ellis, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon with ThedaCare Cardiovascular Care.
“We strive to empower people with the education and resources they need to improve their health,” Dr. Ellis said. “A balanced diet may boost both your heart and gut health.”
Lord and Dr. Ellis discussed the importance of gut health and the connection to cardiovascular health. They shared steps people can take toward maintaining a healthy microbiome – the collection of microorganisms that live in the intestines.
Good gut health involves a well-functioning gastrointestinal tract, without disease or regular unpleasant digestive symptoms. It also lends itself to a diverse, balanced microbiome. A balanced variety of microbial species in the intestines is essential for proper digestion, nutrient production, metabolism, immunity and full-body wellness.
“When the microbial balance is off and one species dominates over another, it can lead to inflammation, poor immunity, digestive issues and chronic health conditions,” Lord said.
Gut-Heart Connection
Research shows certain types of gut bacteria can impact a person’s risk for developing several conditions, including:
- High blood pressure
- Lower levels of HDL (good) cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Heart attacks
- Stroke
- Heart failure
“We’re learning more but research indicates that gut health imbalances can have impacts on blood pressure regulation and inflammation,” Dr. Ellis said. “Many of the steps you can take to improve your gut health will also improve your heart health so it’s a win all around.”
Lord shared tips for improving gut health, such as consuming a variety of plants and prebiotics (fuel for good gut bacteria), choosing healthy unsaturated fats and prioritizing plant-based proteins. Additional strategies include:
- Selecting whole or minimally processed foods. “This promotes higher nutrient intake and avoids the addition of added sugars, saturated fats and other ingredients that contribute to an imbalance of gut microbes,” she said.
- Trying probiotic-rich foods. “Foods containing probiotics include yogurt, kefir, tempeh, kombucha, kimchi and fermented vegetables,” Lord said. “Ask your healthcare team if you have questions, especially if you’re considering a supplement.”
- Eating mindfully. That means slowing down to eat, chewing food thoroughly, minimizing distractions during meals, listening to hunger and fullness cues and engaging the senses while eating. “Mindful eating allows for enhanced digestion, nutrient absorption and support of the gut microbiome through the gut-brain axis,” Lord said.
- Adopting well-rounded health habits such as adequate hydration, quality sleep, regular physical activity and stress management.
A Registered Dietitian Can Help
Managing dietary and lifestyle changes can feel daunting for some. A registered dietitian can help, Lord said.
“We can guide people toward sustainable, evidenced-based dietary habits that support both the gut and heart,” she said. “Nutrition information can be overwhelming, especially for people with health conditions or taking medications.”
A registered dietitian can help simplify and personalize the most important nutrition strategies for each individual, taking into account their history, preferences and habits.
“For anyone looking to maximize their gut or heart health, meeting regularly with a registered dietitian is a great first step,” Lord said.
Learn more about ThedaCare Cardiovascular Care.
To schedule an appointment with a ThedaCare registered dietitian, connect with a primary care physician or cardiologist for a referral.
