Simon Ward, Be Battle Ready - The podcast for strength, resilience, and longevity

Episode 2: How to Fix Your Gut: Practical Steps for Better Health and Performance


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In part two of my conversation with Harvey Fortis – nutritionist, researcher, and performance specialist working with INEOS Cycling – we move from theory into practical action. Harvey and I dig into the specific foods, habits, and daily choices that nourish the microbiome and help it thrive.

We talk about fibre, fermented foods, stress, sleep, pre- and probiotics, the Mediterranean diet, and how simple, consistent choices can transform gut health for athletes and everyday individuals alike.

 

Key Topics

  • Why variety in your diet is key to microbial diversity
  • Fibre vs fermented foods – understanding their different roles
  • How to audit your current diet and identify triggers
  • The truth about IBS, intolerances, and exclusion diets
  • Prebiotics vs probiotics vs symbiotics – what they actually do
  • How stress, sleep, and lifestyle shape gut balance as much as food does
  • The Mediterranean diet as a model for long-term gut health
  • Key Quote ( 01:27:58 )

    Every meal needs to feed you – and your microbes. When you look after your gut, you’re really looking after your whole body.” – Harvey Fortis

    Key Message

    Gut health isn’t about cutting things out – it’s about adding the right things in. Feed your microbes with colour, fibre, and variety, and you’ll build the foundation for lasting health and performance.

     

    How to Connect with Harvey:


    Instagram – @fortis.sportsci
    Website – www.totalendurancenutrition.com

     

    Recommended resources for listeners:

    A couple mod highly recommended books

    Gut by Giulia Enders

    The Athlete’s Gut: The Inside Science of Digestion, Nutrition, and Stomach Distress – Patrick Wilson

    2 interesting research documents

    The Athlete Gut Microbiome and its Relevance to Health and Performance: A Review
    GSSI Sports Science Exchange: Gut Microbiome Function, Stability, and Profiling and Relevance to Athletes

    Join the SWAT Inner Circle

     

    The SWAT Inner Circle is now open. It is the community for athletes and adventurers over 50 who want to train smart, live well, and extend their health span.  You can join today CLICK HERE TO START YOUR MISSION

     

    Connect with me HERE: https://linktr.ee/simonward

    You can find links for the following channels - Website, Facebook, Podcast, Instagram, YouTube

     

    Sign up for Simon’s weekly newsletter

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    💬 Got an awkward question for Simon? Send it to [email protected] — and you might just hear it on a future episode!

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    Simon Ward, Be Battle Ready - The podcast for strength, resilience, and longevityBy Simon Ward

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