Nourishing Your Gut: How Nutrition Supports Physical Therapy
When it comes to healing the body, physical therapy and nutrition go hand in hand—especially when it comes to gut health. A healthy gut can improve inflammation, immunity, energy levels, and even tissue recovery—all key components of physical therapy outcomes.
Why Gut Health Matters
Your gut is more than just a digestive system—it’s a major player in overall wellness. Poor gut health can lead to chronic inflammation, fatigue, and a weakened immune system, all of which can interfere with healing and physical performance. Supporting the gut through proper nutrition helps your body respond more effectively to physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Healing Foods That Support the Gut
- Fermented & Cultured Foods
Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and miso are rich in probiotics. These beneficial bacteria help balance the gut microbiome, improving digestion, reducing bloating, and enhancing immune response—all helpful when your body is working to recover from injury. - Whole Foods First
Unprocessed fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats give your gut the fiber and nutrients it needs to support digestion and reduce inflammation. Fiber-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and legumes feed healthy gut bacteria and promote regularity. - Broths & Collagen
Bone broth is rich in amino acids like glutamine and glycine, which help repair the gut lining and reduce inflammation. Collagen, often found in broths or supplements, supports not just gut health but also connective tissues—key for joint and muscle recovery during therapy. - Hydration & Mindful Eating
Drinking enough water and eating slowly can also aid digestion and nutrient absorption, giving your body the tools it needs to heal effectively. You want to aim to get at least half of your body weight in ounces a day.
Nutrition + PT = Better Results
When your gut is healthy, your body is better equipped to absorb nutrients, manage inflammation, and recover faster. That’s why integrating gut-friendly nutrition with physical therapy can boost healing from the inside out.
By: Kimberley Kessenich, Physical Therapist, PT, DPT, CMTPT
Kimberley Kessenich has found her passion within the dynamic world of physical therapy, dedicating her expertise to pelvic health. A proud graduate of Concordia University in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Kimberley earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy and quickly discovered her calling in working with pregnant and postpartum women. She is deeply committed to this underserved area, believing strongly in the power of education and empowerment during the transformative stages of pregnancy. “There is so much we can do to educate and empower women as their bodies change during pregnancy,” she shares.
Kimberley’s approach to therapy is rooted in connection and understanding. She values the time spent with her patients, listening attentively to uncover the full picture of what may be impairing their well-being. This thoughtful approach not only helps her craft individualized treatment plans but also fosters a strong sense of trust and partnership.