Many of us made New Year's resolutions to get healthier in 2017. I was one of those people. I've known for a long time how important it is to eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight.

But, with a busy lifestyle and working full-time, it's easier to just grab some fast food, go out to eat, or heat up a packaged, frozen meal for dinner. And, we all know those are not the healthiest choices to make.

So, in my research of how to be healthier, I learned something I didn't know and thought I would share it. A healthy digestive system is imperative to having a healthy body!

I suppose it's a no-brainer once you think about it. Our digestive system breaks down the food we eat and sends the nutrients throughout our bodies. So, if our digestive system isn't working at its best, our overall health suffers.

Having a poorly functioning digestive system can lead to all kinds of problems, like constipation, weight gain and indigestion. And, since approximately 70% of our immune system is in the digestive tract, a compromised digestive system leads to a compromised immune system.

Weight gain is caused by your digestive system's inability to break down the food you eat. This can lead to decreased nutrient absorption, and a reduction in the body's ability to rid itself of toxins and wastes, which, in turn, can lead to constipation and bloating.

A build-up of toxins and waste and a reduction in the absorption of nutrients, vitamins and minerals causes the body's metabolism to decrease, leading to excess body fat and fatigue. And, who feels like exercising when they're tired? Nobody!