Trillions of bacteria make up your gut, and most of them are essential for your overall health. However, some bacteria carry diseases that can lead to major health complications in the future. Many factors contribute to the presence of harmful gut bacteria, including your diet and nutrition. By making a few lifestyle changes, you can promote a healthy gut and improve your overall health. Read on for four easy ways to enhance your gut health today.
Firstly, Eat a Balanced and Diverse Diet
With so many different types of bacteria in your gut, you can’t keep them all healthy with a monotonous diet. Each species needs different nutrients to grow and prevent diseases. To promote a healthy microbiome, eat a balanced, diverse diet. Incorporate a variety of foods into your meals, including plenty of:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Legumes
- Protein
- Greens
The traditional Western diet lacks diversity, so you should make an effort to introduce a variety of healthy foods into your diet while consuming less sugar and saturated fats. This approach is essential for strengthening your gut health.
Secondly, Eat Plenty of Prebiotics
Prebiotics are foods that promote the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut. These mainly include starches and fibers that your cells cannot digest—instead, your gut bacteria break them down for fuel. While prebiotic supplements are available, you can also get prebiotics naturally from various foods. Some foods high in prebiotic fiber include:
- Beans and legumes
- Onions
- Garlic
- Berries and bananas
- Oats
A diet rich in prebiotics has been proven to cultivate a variety of bacteria that promote a healthy gut. Additionally, prebiotics are thought to reduce triglyceride, cholesterol, and insulin levels in those who are heavier in weight; this serves to reduce the risk of conditions like diabetes and heart disease, as well as strengthen the immune system overall.
Thirdly, Take Probiotic Vitamins
Similar to prebiotics, probiotics play a major role in your gut health. Probiotics are essentially live bacteria found in certain foods that have numerous nutritional benefits. When consumed, probiotics can change the composition of your gut microbiome; an improvement for those who are affected by certain diseases. Even without a compromised system, evidence suggests that probiotics can improve the efficiency of your gut microbiome. However, the easiest way to make sure you’re getting enough probiotics is to take a supplement. Be sure to consult with a doctor before using any supplements to find the right one for you.
Finally, Add Fermented Foods to Your Diet
To naturally improve your gut health, add fermented foods to your diet. Fermented foods often contain probiotics and other nutritional value. Some popular sources include:
- Yogurt
- Kimchi
- Pickled vegetables
- Kefir
- Sauerkraut
Visit Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness to learn more about improving your overall health today.
