Last Updated on January 23, 2024
Did you know your stomach has its own ecosystem? Yes, we’re talking about your gut. Did you know that having a healthy gut is now considered to be just as important as looking after your general health?
In fact, the balance of bacteria in your gut is such an important indicator of health that scientists have even dubbed it ‘the second brain’. Your stomach houses around one kilogram of bacteria – that’s like a sack full! And if that doesn’t gross you out enough, here’s another piece of info: The population of bacteria in your stomach changes with everything you eat. This article will help you understand why your gut matters and what foods are best for keeping it happy and healthy.
Why does your gut matter so much?
Your gut is home to trillions of microorganisms that act as an essential shield against disease. These microbes produce vitamins, help release energy from food, and keep inflammation under control. In fact, these bacteria are so important that they even play a role in the health of your brain. A healthy gut helps you to stay slim, prevents allergies, and keeps your mood balanced. The microbes in your gut have been linked to conditions such as diabetes, obesity, mental health issues, autoimmune diseases, and some cancers. When your gut is unhealthy, it’s like having a house full of toxic tenants.
Kombucha: The good-for-your-gut drink
Kombucha is made from the fermentation of tea, sugar, and bacteria. The bacteria actually help to protect your gut bacteria. The bacteria are also great for your skin, hair, and nails. It’s also good for your liver and nervous system, as well as being high in antioxidants. As kombucha is made through a fermentation process, it’s not considered to be a probiotic, but it is still very good for your gut. You can also make your own kombucha, which is great because you can control the amount of sugar that goes into the tea. If you buy kombucha, make sure you check the sugar content.
Beans and legumes
Beans, lentils, and other legumes are great for your gut. They contain fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. For every 100 grams of dry beans, you get about 24 grams of fiber. This is higher than what you would get from oats, which are a commonly suggested fiber source. Fiber helps with weight management, which is great for your overall gut health, too. Beans and legumes have been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, which is cancer in your large intestine. If you’re not a fan of eating beans, you can also get some fiber from flaxseed. You can make smoothies with flaxseed or include it in your baked goods to make sure you get enough fiber.
Dark leafy greens
Dark, leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, and spinach are full of fiber and vitamins, which help to keep your digestive system running smoothly. You can add them to salads, soups, and smoothies or just eat them as they are – they taste great both raw and cooked. You can also use the leaves in sandwiches and wraps. Other vegetables that are good for your gut include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. You should aim to get at least five servings of vegetables a day to keep your gut healthy.
Omega-3 rich foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your gut health. They help with reducing inflammation, which can increase your risk of developing health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Some of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. You can include these in smoothies, salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. You can also use them in baking or make your own omega-3-rich supplements. You should aim to get about 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids per day. This is easy to do if you eat a varied diet. Having a healthy gut is essential to staying healthy and living a long life. You can start to improve your gut health by making small changes to your diet.
Your gut is another organ that has been getting a lot of attention lately. It may not be as glamorous as your heart or lungs, but it is extremely important. It is home to trillions of microorganisms that act as a natural shield against disease. Having a healthy gut also helps you to stay slim, prevents allergies, and keeps your mood balanced. The microbes in your gut have been linked to conditions such as diabetes, obesity, autoimmune diseases, and some cancers. Eating foods that are good for your gut is one of the best ways to keep your gut healthy.
