In this episode, Daniel McInerney and Vanessa Vanderhoek explore the critical role of gut health in overall well-being. They discuss Vanessa's journey in integrative medicine, the importance of understanding gut health, and practical steps listeners can take to improve their gut health. The conversation highlights the connection between gut health and various health issues, emphasising the need for awareness and proactive measures.   Watch Vanessa’s free webinars on YouTube: ‘THGN Stop Struggling With Digestive Issues And Finally Work Out What’s Going on In There’ - https://youtu.be/csn3s7I2WNI?si=EoV8TL5ftlB1KF-R ‘Intro to Gut Health - Why Great Health Begins In The Gut’ - https://youtu.be/aPfTCbdNa90?si=Utg8afwBtWB6D01R ‘Is It IBS, SIBO, IMO, SIFO? All Of The Above… Or Something Else?’ - https://youtu.be/w-0DWTv7dfQ?si=JIB2qqONg_Ev4BEG ‘The Gut-Skin Axis: Unlocking the Secret to Overcoming Skin Conditions’ - https://youtu.be/CaAynUcrpgE?si=b-J8UhCCxQemqT9M   Download Vanessa’s FREE eBook: The 5 Things I Learned About My Gut Health & Energy. In this eBook she’s shared the top 5 things she’s learned, so you too can finally stop searching for answers. Click here to get immediate access - https://thehealthygutnutritionist.click/optin1653280201585   Book a free Discovery Call with Vanessa – https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/   The key takeaways Your gut is connected to your immune system, physical and mental health. Gut health impacts energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being. 80% of the immune system is located in the gut. Many people tolerate gut issues thinking they are normal, but they are not – they’re just common. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in health and disease prevention. Dietary fibre is essential for gut health and comes in various forms. Practical steps to improve gut health include increasing fibre intake and being mindful of food choices. Understanding the connection between gut health and other health issues is vital for prevention.   Chapters 00:00 - The Importance of Gut Health 13:05 - Vanessa's Journey in Integrative Medicine 17:09 - Understanding Gut Health and Its Impact 17:37 - The Role of Gut Health in Daily Life 22:02 - The Importance of Preventative Health 26:42 - Emerging Research in Gut Health 30:37 - The Role of Nutrition in Gut Health 36:04 - Practical Steps for Improving Gut Health   Connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek - follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.   Connect with Daniel McInerney - follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.   Keywords gut health, gut microbiome, functional medicine, integrative medicine, nutrition, digestive health, mental health, immune system, probiotics, fibre, wellness, health tips, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, reflux, SIBO, IBS