Gut Health

What are the 3 super foods for your gut?

No single food is best for our gut, but fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut, prebiotic riche foods like bananas and garlic and probiotic rich foods like yogurt and kefir can support the friendly bacteria in our gut which supports digestion and nutrient absorption.

How can I improve my gut health?

• Eat a range of plants.

Research has suggested that those who eat a wider variety of plant-based foods a week have a more diverse gut microbiome, and this is associated with improved immunity and resilience to inflection as well as improving blood lipid levels and preventing many diseases. It’s not just fruit and veg- nuts, seeds, legumes, beans and grains all count towards this, so it is actually more achievable than you think.

• Aim for at least 30g of fibre per day

• Manage stress and eat mindfully, as the health of our brain and gut are closely linked

• Move your body.

Exercise is important for our gut, as it helps to stimulate normal bowel functioning and prevent constipation. This reduces the contact time between the gut lining and pathogens which reduces the risk of inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer (Huerta et al., 2001).

Is apple cider vinegar good for gut health?

The “mother” in apple-cider vinegar is a source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, but you can get probiotics from other food sources.

What are the symptoms of an unhealthy gut?

• Frequent bloating

• Painful bloating

• Frequent diarrhoea

• Regular constipation