Gut Health affects everything in the body, from your weight and immune system to your mood and mental health.
A healthy gut microbiome helps to control inflammation, fight infections and produce serotonin. Without a balanced microbiome, your body can’t function well and may have more serious conditions like autoimmune diseases, depression and chronic fatigue.
Your gut microbiome is a complex community of bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses that live in your digestive tract. Research has shown that a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria is essential for health, as it helps prevent digestive problems like constipation or diarrhea.
Probiotics, a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine can help your gut microbiome to thrive. You can take these in supplement form or, preferably, through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut.
Getting enough sleep, managing stress and practicing mindfulness can also improve your gut health. Studies have shown that people who have poor sleep are more likely to have digestive problems, such as IBS or diarrhea.
Eating a balanced, plant-based diet that includes plenty of fiber and polyphenols, or plant chemicals that your gut bugs love, is another key to maintaining a healthy microbiome. These include sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, beets and fennel.
Limiting dairy, red and processed meats, and refined sugars can also improve your gut health. Resistant starches, found in beans, peas, lentils and oats, also help to promote the growth of good bacteria.
Finally, you should eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. These are the most natural source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which can support your gut bacteria.
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