HOW I FIXED MY GUT HEALTH & SKIN | EATING & TRAINING [DEFICIT] RUNNING + LIFTING | Conagh Kathleen

HOW I FIXED MY GUT HEALTH & SKIN | EATING & TRAINING IN A DEFICIT: Running + Lifting

A Personal Journey

Have you ever wondered how to improve your gut health and enhance your skin? Well, I have! In this article, I will be sharing my personal experience with fixing my gut health and achieving clear skin through a combination of eating right and training. But first, let me introduce myself.

Introducing Conagh Kathleen

Hello, my friends! Welcome back to another video by Conagh Kathleen. For those of you who don’t know me, I am a fitness enthusiast who loves sharing my journey and experiences. Now, before we dive into the exciting details of my gut health and skin transformation, please keep in mind that the information I’m about to share is based on my personal experience and should not be taken as professional advice. It’s always important to consult with experts in the field for personalized guidance.

The Importance of Gut Health

Gut health plays a vital role in overall well-being. It affects not only digestion but also energy levels, mood, and even skin health. Many people struggle with gut-related issues, such as bloating, poor digestion, and hormonal imbalances. I was one of those people until I decided to take matters into my own hands.

My Journey Towards Better Gut Health

It all started when I noticed consistent hormonal acne around my mouth area. Despite having taken medication in the past and being on the contraceptive pill, the acne persisted. I began to suspect that my gut health might be at the root of the problem.

After doing some research, I decided to see a functional nutritionist who specialized in gut health. We conducted various tests, including blood tests, stool tests, and even a hormonal test. The results revealed some sensitivities to gluten and a few imbalances in my gut flora. Armed with this information, I embarked on a journey to improve my gut health.

Changes in Diet

One of the significant changes I made to my diet was to prioritize gut-friendly foods. While I don’t eat 100% gluten-free, I do try to limit gluten intake due to the sensitivities revealed in my tests. I swapped gluten-rich bread for rice cakes and avoided processed foods containing artificial sweeteners, which I found were causing digestive issues.

I incorporated more fermented foods, like kimchi, into my diet to support a healthy gut microbiome. Probiotics became a staple, and I opted for organic and natural sources of dairy, such as cottage cheese and yogurt. I also paid attention to my protein intake, focusing on foods like eggs, tuna, salmon, and lean red meat.

Training and Exercise Routine

To complement my dietary changes, I incorporated a regular exercise routine. I opted for a combination of running and lifting weights during a caloric deficit. Running helped with cardiovascular fitness and overall calorie burn, while weightlifting aided in building strength and muscle.

I noticed that deadlifts, in particular, had a significant impact on my overall fitness and running performance, although I sometimes struggled with getting my form right. But practice makes perfect, right?

The Results: Gut Health and Clear Skin

After consistently following my dietary and exercise changes for about six months, I began to see significant improvements in both my gut health and skin. My digestion improved, and bloating became a thing of the past. Most importantly, my skin cleared up dramatically.

Gone were the days of constant hormonal acne. My skin became clearer and more radiant than ever before. It was truly a transformation that I had never experienced, even after undergoing treatments like Accutane in the past.

Takeaways and Advice

While my journey may not be the same as yours, there are a few key takeaways that can apply to anyone seeking to improve their gut health and skin:

– Consult with a professional: Seeing a functional nutritionist or healthcare practitioner who specializes in gut health can provide personalized guidance and help identify any underlying issues.
– Prioritize gut-friendly foods: Incorporate fermented foods, probiotics, and organic/natural sources of dairy to support a healthy gut microbiome.
– Consider dietary sensitivities: If you suspect any food sensitivities, experiment with eliminating or reducing those foods to see if your symptoms improve.
– Don’t forget the importance of exercise: Regular exercise, including a combination of cardiovascular and strength training, can complement dietary changes and support overall well-being.

Remember, this is my own experience, and what worked for me may not work for everyone. It’s essential to listen to your body, consult with professionals, and make changes based on your individual needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to eat gluten-free to improve gut health?

While a gluten-free diet may benefit individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, it’s not necessary for everyone. However, reducing processed foods and incorporating gut-friendly foods like fermented options and probiotics can be beneficial for gut health.

2. How long did it take to see results in your gut health and skin?

It took me approximately six months of consistent dietary and exercise changes to see significant improvements in both my gut health and skin. Remember, everyone’s journey is different, so be patient and give your body time to adapt.

3. Can exercise affect gut health?

Regular exercise can have positive effects on gut health by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting overall digestion. However, intense exercise or excessive endurance training can sometimes lead to digestive issues. It’s important to find a balance and listen to your body’s needs.

In conclusion, improving gut health and achieving clear skin is possible with the right approach. By prioritizing gut-friendly foods, making dietary changes, and incorporating a suitable exercise routine, you can enhance both your gut health and overall well-being. Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, so listen to your body and seek professional guidance along the way.