Yoga Linked to Improved Health Through a More Diverse Gut Microbiome

The owner of Gellis Investment Management and president of Awaken.com, Entrepreneur and Wellness Guru Henry Gellis is interested in the intersection of stress reduction, nutrition, health, and technology. One of Henry Gellis’ primary hobbies is yoga. 

The benefits of yoga are numerous and some are perhaps unexpected. For example, yoga has been linked to a better gut microbiome. The gut is linked to health in many ways, including immunity, weight regulation, and food digestion. Part of a healthy gut includes good bacteria, but many things can upset this microbiome, include chronic stress, environmental toxins, and processed foods.

Yoga has been linked to a healthier gut microbiome for two key reasons. First, yoga helps control stress levels. Too much stress changes the way in which gut microbes interact with the body. By controlling stress, yoga helps maintain a good gut balance. Secondly, moderate exercise like yoga is linked to better microbial diversity, especially when paired with a high-protein diet. Microbial diversity is very important for strengthening the immune system and maintaining healthy body processes. 

The impact of yoga on gastrointestinal health may explain some of the other benefits of the practice. In addition to a stronger immune system, a good gut microbiome increases energy and endurance, strengthens bones and joints, and combats depression.