Healing your gut shouldn’t feel like punishment. Unfortunately, so many of us learned that more restriction=more results and that the path to relief is a lonely journey that must involve cutting things out and powering through to be effective. At OWL, we believe the opposite: that gut healing is a return to nourishment, rhythm, and ease.
With so much conflicting advice out there, it’s easy to fall into habits that unintentionally slow progress. Here are five common gut health mistakes we see and what to do instead, backed by science and traditional wisdom.
1. Skipping Meals
Why it backfires: Skipping meals may seem like a way to “give your digestion a break”, but it can actually increase cortisol (a stress hormone), disrupt blood sugar and slow motility, especially when done chronically. This can worsen bloating, fatigue and inflammation over time.
Try this instead: Begin your day with something gentle and grounding, like an OWL Broth Elixir or Mylkshake. These are designed to provide essential nutrients without overwhelming your digestive system, helping you transition into the day with ease and nourishment.
2. Over-Restricting Your Diet
Why it backfires: Elimination diets have their place, but long-term restriction can cause nutrient deficiencies, reduce microbial diversity and create a fear-based relationship with food. Studies show that overly limited diets may impair gut resilience by starving beneficial bacteria.
Try this instead: Focus on inclusion, not exclusion. Our Reset approved food list emphasizes anti-inflammatory, gut-supportive foods that nourish your microbiome and keep meals satisfying — so your healing feels sustainable, not stressful.
3. Cold Smoothies First Thing in the Morning
Why it backfires: According to Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, cold and raw foods can dampen “digestive fire,” making it harder for your body to break down and assimilate nutrients — especially in the morning when metabolism is naturally slower.
Try this instead: Opt for warm, cooked meals or broths in the morning to gently awaken digestion. OWL Broth Elixirs are formulated to support this ancient wisdom — sipped warm, they ground the body and deliver soothing nutrients like collagen, glycine, and amino acids.
4. Eating in a Stressed or Rushed State
Why it backfires: Digestion happens best in a parasympathetic state, AKA “rest and digest.” When you eat in a hurry or while stressed, blood flow is diverted away from the gut, enzyme production decreases and nutrient absorption suffers. Ever notice that you're super bloated after eating on the go?
Try this instead: Before each meal, pause. Take three deep breaths. Sit down, slow down and chew thoroughly. These small rituals activate your parasympathetic nervous system and can dramatically improve how you digest and absorb your food.
5. Trying to Do It All Alone
Why it backfires: The gut-brain connection is real and stress, confusion or isolation can negatively impact both digestion and mental health. One study found that individuals who received personalized coaching during a nutrition program were significantly more likely to follow through and experience long-term improvements.
Try this instead: Support makes all the difference. Every OWL Reset includes a complimentary 15-minute consult with a certified health coach who can answer your questions, personalize your approach and help you feel grounded throughout your journey. We also offer longer sessions and packages for long-term support.
Healing your gut doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require intention, nourishment and the right kind of support.
The Bottom Line:
Gut healing should feel like a return to safety — not another stressor. Our Reset is built to support you with warmth, rhythm, and real food.
Includes broths, mylkshakes, approved food guide, and health coaching. Gentle enough to support real life — powerful enough to create change