Foods that are Good for your Gut Health

First, why do you need a “healthy gut”, and why is it so important? The short version is that you are born with a certain microbiome. A microbiome consists of trillions of tiny organisms, all of which we don’t need to know anything about.

Suffice it to say there are good and bad organisms, and they all balance each other out, keeping you in good health. The largest number of them are found in your digestive system.

This microbiome, when in balance, keeps your immune system in shape, and keeps disease at bay. But if certain elements are introduced, like a lengthy course of antibiotics or certain other medicines, a prolonged bad diet, or an infectious illness, it can knock the microbiome out of balance. This can cause your body to become more susceptible to disease, or getting sick from contaminated water or food.

Not to worry, there are foods you can add to your diet (or probiotic pills you can take) that will keep your gut happy and in balance. Here are 12 foods that are good for gut health.

1. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, natural yogurt, Kombucha, kimchi, and miso. These are the “probiotics”. They add good bacteria to your gut.
2. Prebiotics help feed the good bacteria. Here is a list of great sources:

• Leeks – nutrient dense, low in calories, and yummy.
• Onion and Garlic –Garlic and onions are rich in inulin and FOS (types of prebiotics).
• Asparagus – healthy and a popular side dish, it’s also good for you!
• Raspberries – high in fiber, and a good source of polyphnols, which again is good for -you guessed it- your gut microbes.
• Bananas– high in potassium and another good source of fiver.
• Barley – added to soup or as a side dish, it’s high in beta-glucan which promotes the growth of friendly bacteria in your digestive tract. (see, you were tired of the word “gut”, so I switched it up for you.)
• Pears and Watermelon – refreshing, and good for your friendly bacteria.

So there you have it, a  little information you didn’t know, and some ideas to add to your diet. Enjoy!