Foods For Guts Health
If you notice signs of poor gut health, lifestyle factors may help improve your gut microbiome and benefit your overall health.
Believe it or not, your gut microbiome is the foundation of your health. Good gut health occurs when you have a balance between the good (helpful) and bad (potentially harmful) bacteria and yeast in your digestive system. In fact, 80% of your immune system is in the gut, and the majority of your body’s serotonin is, too. This means if your gut isn’t healthy, then your immune system and hormones won’t function, and you will get sick.
You have many bacteria in your body. In fact, you have more of them than you have cells. Most are good for you. The ones found in your gut not only help you digest foods, but they also work all over your body and can be good for your physical and mental health.
Common Signs of a Healthy Gut
- Regular and pain-free bowel movements.
- Consistent energy.
- The normal amount of gas and bloating.
- Healthy bowel transit time.
- Mental clarity.
- Healthy reactions to food and stress.
Food For Gut Health
YOGURT: It is probably the most popular probiotic and for good reason. It’s made when good bacteria are added to milk. The probiotics in yogurt help digest some of the lactose (milk sugar) so if you’re lactose-intolerant, you may be able to enjoy yogurt.
ALMONDS (WITH SKIN): Healthy reason to eat almonds and almond skins. Almonds serve as prebiotics—non-digestible carbohydrates/plant fiber that feeds the good bacteria already living in the gut.
OLIVE OIL: Polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil may help balance the bacteria in our digestive tract; slowing the growth of unwanted bacteria.
OATS: They contain the gel-like texture of beta-glucan, oatmeal feeds good bacteria in the gut, contributing to overall improved gut health, and can be often used to relieve constipation.
ONIONS: They are a rich source of fiber and prebiotics, which are necessary for optimal gut health. These help increase the number of friendly bacteria in your gut and improve immune function.