The gut is crucial to our overall health and wellbeing, but it can be hard to talk about the symptoms if it’s not working right. Local experts are encouraging New Zealanders to stop being embarrassed, and instead asking them to “talk s*** to save lives”. Why is gut health important? Gastroenterologist and Gut Foundation trustee Professor Richard Gearry says the gut is “the most important organ in the body”. Your gut, or gastrointestinal system, includes your mouth and oesophagus, stomach, and small and large intestines.