Until the age of 21, I didn't even know what gut health or probiotics even were. Through the years I have learned how to properly love & take care of my gut!
Photo credit: C. Lyn Creations
Poor gut health can show itself in many ways including: gastrointestinal issues, brain fog, vitamin deficiencies, inflammation, chronic diseases, weight gain, sugar cravings, autoimmune diseases, insomnia, and more.
I have read many gut health books, listened to podcasts & even watched lectures on this topic. I’ve tried countless recommendations that I’ve learned from these resources. This blog will focus on probiotics and their role in gut health.
Our gut needs this good bacteria aka probiotics!
Why to good bacteria matters
Boost immune system!
Good bacteria fight the bad bacteria and win if there is enough healthy good bacteria.
Energizing vitamins!
Good bacteria produce many vitamins, particularly B vitamins, that our body needs.
Better digestion!
Good bacteria aid in general digestion, specifically by helping breakdown carbohydrates.
How to boost your good bacteria
Eat fermented foods.
I daily consume Kombucha or non-dairy kefir & sauerkraut or kimchi. Why? During the fermentation process, good bacteria called probiotics grow. Fermented foods are rich in various strains of probiotics.
Tip: Choose refrigerated sauerkraut over canned.
Take a good probiotic.
In my opinion, a refrigerated probiotic is going to maintain the highest level of bacteria. However there are many non-refrigerated versions in the forms of powder or capsules so if that is your only option, it’s better than nothing.
Drink alkalized water.
Alkalized water intake not only keeps acid levels balanced but also promotes the growth of good bacteria in the gut.
Eat prebiotic-rich foods!
Prebiotics are the food for good bacteria-probiotics. Once you get your gut filled with the good bacteria, it still won’t thrive unless it has prebiotics to eat. Some of my favorite probiotic foods are garlic, bananas, apples, and oatmeal. Here is a list of high prebiotic-rich foods: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/19-best-prebiotic-foods#section7
Personally, elimination dairy, gluten & sugar has also been beneficial.
If you are just getting started learning about gut health, two good resources for you are Skinny Gut Diet and Eat Dirt.
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