Our monthly health advice from our resident naturopath Anne:
When guests arrive at Billabong Wellness Retreat, one of the biggest shifts they experience is in their food. Our menus are full of fresh, seasonal, whole foods – rich in natural fibre, plant diversity, and nourishment for both body and mind.
With this positive change, some people notice how their digestion feels… different. You might experience more bloating, gurgling, or changes in bowel habits in the first few days. This is completely normal – and actually a sign that your gut microbiome is adapting.
Your microbiome is the community of trillions of bacteria living in your digestive system. Many of these bacteria thrive on the fibres and natural compounds found in vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. If your regular diet has been lower in fibre, your microbiome needs time to “catch up.”
As the beneficial bacteria start multiplying to digest this new abundance of fibre, they produce natural gases and by-products that can feel a little unusual at first. The good news? These sensations don’t last. Within a few days, your gut usually settles and begins to feel lighter, more balanced, and more regular. Over time, a fibre-rich diet helps build a diverse, resilient microbiome – one that supports digestion, immunity, energy, and even mood. We recommend that you continue the journey of a high fibre fresh food diet when you leave Billabong.
