Probiotics, prebiotics, and microbiota are all the rage to increase the 'healthy bacteria' in our gut. These organisms assist in immune function, aid digestion, help us absorb nutrients efficiently, and even improve brain health. I recently read a 3-day gut health makeover written by Ann Pittman Taylor. Check out these interesting highlights:
The bacteria in your gut microbiome are like factory workers keeping your body's systems running smoothly - from digestion to your immune system to metabolism. They produce vitamins, alter fat storage, and even impact blood sugar.
Like a forest filled with wildlife, your gut is an ecosystem. If you reduce your microbial diversity, you reduce your resiliency. Your diet influences diversity, but so do some common practices, such as obsessive cleanliness and spending the majority of time indoors.
How to improve gut health?
- Eat more whole grains like whole barley, corn, and oats.
- Prebiotics are found in whole-wheat bread, garlic, oats, onions, bananas, and celery.
- Probiotic rich foods include sour dough bread, miso, tempeh, and kombucha.
Be Well! ~ Tiffany
