Gut health isn’t just about what you eat—it’s also shaped by culture, habits, and even the little things we don’t think about, like how we sit on the toilet.  Different cultures have different ways of taking of their digestive system.  Some of these habits might seem unusual at first, but they’ve been passed down for generations for a reason. And honestly? We could learn a thing or two from them. 

1. India: Drinking Warm Water in the Morning 

The Habit: In Ayurveda, an ancient Indian wellness practice, starting the day with warm water is believed to stimulate digestion and detoxify the gut. 

Lesson: Try swapping out cold drinks for warm water in the morning to kickstart your digestive system gently. 

2. France: Prioritizing Leisurely Meals (and Gut-Friendly Ferments) 

The Habit: The French take their time with meals, often sitting down to eat without rushing. They also enjoy fermented foods like cheese and yogurt, which support gut health. 

Lesson: Avoid eating in a hurry—slow, mindful meals can improve digestion and nutrient absorption. 

3. Middle East: The Power of Spices for Digestion 

The Habit: Many Middle Eastern dishes use digestion-friendly spices like cumin, turmeric, and cardamom, which can help reduce bloating and support gut health. 

Lesson: Incorporate natural digestive aids like ginger, fennel, and turmeric into your meals. 

4. Japan: Eating Until You’re 80% Full (Hara Hachi Bu) 

The Habit: In Okinawa, Japan, people follow the principle of Hara Hachi Bu, which means stopping eating when they are about 80% full. This improves digestion, prevents overeating, and promotes longevity.

Lesson: Instead of eating until you’re stuffed, slow down and listen to your body’s signals—your gut will thank you!

5. South Korea: Fermented Foods Everywhere (Kimchi Culture!) 

The Habit: Kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish, staples Korean cuisine and packs probiotics that support gut health.

Fermented foods like kimchi, miso, and kefir are common in many Asian diets. 

Lesson: Adding fermented foods to your meals can help balance gut bacteria and improve digestion. 

6. Italy & Mediterranean Countries: Olive Oil for Gut Health 

The Habit: The Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, has been linked to better gut microbiome health. Olive oil acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and supports digestion. 

Lesson: A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on your meals could be a simple way to support your gut. 

7. Africa & Ethiopia: Eating with Your Hands (Mindful Eating) 

The Habit: In many African cultures, eating with hands (like enjoying injera in Ethiopia) strengthens the connection with food and aids digestion.

Lesson: Eating mindfully—whether with your hands or just being present—can improve digestion and overall gut health. 

While every culture has its own unique traditions, many of these habits share a common goal: better digestion, mindful eating, and gut-friendly nutrients. Gut health habits from around the world offer valuable insights into how different societies prioritize digestive wellness. By taking inspiration from these global practices, we can create simple but effective habits to support our own gut health.