Taking care of your gut

Your gut health is dictated by the balance of microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, and viruses - forming your gut microbiome or gut flora) that live in your digestive tract. Although the concept of microorganisms living within your digestive tract might seem strange, it is actually essential for your overall health, immune functioning, and gut comfort. In this article, we discuss 4 ways in which nutrition supports your gut health:

1. Probiotics: 

• Probiotics are good bacteria that balance your gut microbiome and reduce gut inflammation. Foods such as yoghurt, sauerkraut, miso, kombucha, pickles, and some cheeses (gouda, mozzarella, cheddar, and cottage cheese) are rich in probiotics. When it comes to purchasing probiotic foods, always check the label for “live cultures” or “active cultures”. That way, you can ensure that the product contains the ingredients required to support your gut health. 

2. Prebiotic fibres:

• The aforementioned probiotics feed on non-digestible carbohydrates, called prebiotics. This process is important as it stimulates the multiplication of healthy bacteria in your gut, helping to maintain a healthy digestive system. Foods rich in prebiotic fibres include asparagus, bananas, figs, garlic, onions, and whole grains.

3. Vegetarian meals:

• Vegetarian meals are often high in prebiotic fibres and are important for gut health. One study showed that a vegetarian diet enhanced the gut microbiome and lowered gut inflammation after only one month. That’s not to say that you need to radically commit to a vegetarian diet, but it may be wise to switch out some meals for vegetarian options.

4. Sugar and artificial sweeteners:

• The heavy consumption of sugars and artificial sweeteners can disrupt the balance of your gut microbiome and affect your gut health. Instead, try to use natural sweeteners, like raw honey, real maple syrup, coconut sugar, blackstrap molasses, and dates. But remember that although natural sweeteners are less refined, they are still classified as sugars and should be consumed in moderation.

Supporting a well-balanced gut microbiome is essential for your gut health and will ensure that your gut microorganisms are happy, healthy, and thriving.

Listen to your gut. It’s always right.