One of the most common problems I see when working with members to improve their health, is gut issues. Symptoms can manifest in so many ways showing up as; bloating, skin irritations, fatigue, brain fog, depression, joint pain and weight gain to name a few.
Your gut health can be affected by so many things from your environment to stress. However, one of the easiest ways to help it heal, is through good nutrition. Making a few simple additions to your diet can make a huge difference.
So, here’s my guide on what to include on your next shopping list to help heal your gut:
Probiotics (Fermented foods) – yoghurt, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, sourdough bread, cottage cheese and tempeh.
These are all great sources of probiotics, which are the good bacteria that help maintain balance in your gut and heal the delicate lining. Choose products that say things like ‘active or live cultures’ on them.
Prebiotics (Foods high in fibre) – onions, artichokes, bananas, asparagus, apples, oats and soybeans.
These are all great sources of prebiotics, which are the dietary fibre that feed the probiotics and helps them to flourish.
Bitters- rocket, cacao, dandelion greens, Brussel sprouts, kale, coffee, grapefruit and dill.
These foods help to stimulate your digestive enzymes and juices which will assist in breaking down and absorbing the nutrients from your food.
Phytonutrients (plant foods) – berries, tomatoes, red peppers, spinach, carrots, tea, whole grains, sweet potatoes and aubergine.
These are all great sources of phytonutrients which are natural compounds made by plants. They have high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories which can help boost your immune system and protect against cell damage.
Antimicrobial foods – coconut oil, ginger, garlic, pumpkin seeds, lemon and limes.
These antimicrobial foods help to keep the bad bacteria in your stomach under control.
