Have your heard that your health starts in your gut?, this maybe underrated phrase has a lot of truth and importance and we need to pay attention to this topic.
The gut is composed of a whole host of microbes that affect your physiology and keep your body and brain functioning as they should.
As studies tell us, these gut microbes affect the way you store fat, how you balance levels of glucose in your blood, and how you respond to hormones that make you feel hungry or satiated.
The wrong internal mix can set the stage for obesity and other health issues later in life.
Scientists have also found that gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters that regulate your mood including serotonin, dopamine, and GABA.
Researchers have also discover that a nervous system in your gut (known as the “second brain”) communicates with the brain in your head. It also plays a role in certain diseases and in mental health.
In other words, the wellness of both your body and your brain depend on your gut health.
Good gut bugs help your body digest and absorb nutrients, synthesize certain vitamins, and rally against intruders, such as the flu and toxic-forming carcinogens.
A healthy microbiome translates into a healthy human.
So the foods you choose to eat are a crucial component of maintaining gut health.
Probiotics and Prebiotics the two gut healthy compounds
Probiotics are found in fermented foods, as well as in some supplements. And prebiotics are found in certain fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. The most central prebiotic of all is fiber.
Fiber up!
Soluble fiber helps lower blood glucose levels and LDL cholesterol. You can find it in oatmeal, legumes, and some fruits and veggies.
Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, offers more of a cleansing effect on your digestive environment. Find it in whole grains, kidney beans, and in fruits and veggies, too.
Gut friendly foods to consider eating often
-Fermented foods like; Sauerkraut, Tempeh, kimchi, miso, kefir, pickles (a good snack alternative with moderation because of its high sodium content).
-Greens; like dandelion greens, broccoli, asparagus, seaweed.
-Jerusalem artichoke, jicama, flaxseed.
-Fruits like; apples, bananas.
-Garlic; The ultimate in food flavorings, this tasty additive is also great for your gut health.
What about probiotics supplements?
Probiotics can be helpful in treating irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, colitis, acne, and eczema. And the strongest evidence for probiotics is related to their use in improving gut health and boosting immune function, however these kind of supplements need to be guided for your health practitioner.
Hope this article can be helpful!
Lissette xx.