Ah, the great outdoors.

Okay, but why?

Many of us may think that the best thing we can do for our gut is to eat nutritiously.

Young woman relaxing on bench in backyard of her house

Take it from one of our experts.

First, hanging out in nature exposes you to different kinds of bacteria.

Collage graphic of the best shoes for standing all day according to nurses, with the top pick being FIGS New Balance 3447 Zip shoes in gray, black, and white against a pink and orange background

gastroenterologist and founder ofThe Center for Integrative Gut Health

Your local park or backyard totally counts here, btw.

You don’t have to trek out to a remote forest, Dr. Rao says.

Research backs this up.

close up of person drinking a green smoothie that may cause their poop to be green

But that’s not all.

Spending time in nature is a really goodstress reliever, and low stress levels keep your microbiome happy.

And the research supports this, too.

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Chances are just getting out for a stroll every day will make a difference, Dr. Rao says.

Dr. Ivanina agrees that any amount of outside time you’re free to get is a good thing.

(Just remember to wear sunscreen on those especially hot days!)

cup of matcha green tea sitting on a wooden ledge

gastroenterologist and founder ofThe Center for Integrative Gut Health

If you’re pressed for time, make it a point to move your workout outside whenever you could.

How about a quick walk during your lunch break?

Whatever time you might squeeze in can be beneficial for your well-being, in more ways than just one.

LOS ANGELES - FEB 10: Patrick Schwarzenegger at the White Lotus Season 3 Premiere at Paramount Studios on February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles, CA

And that in turn might help you get sick less often.

Sounds like a win-win to us.

And the best part?

Woman drinking a protein meal replacement shake in the kitchen

It’s an easy (and free!)

way to take care of your body and mind.

So, what are you waiting for?

Grab your keys and get outside.

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