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Your body’s gut health is vital to maintaining your health and well-being. It is home to billions of good bacteria that break down and absorb food, help support your immune system, and foster a good disposition. Here are ways to ensure support of your gut health.
Eat Lots of Fiber
Eating foods high in fiber will have a significant effect on your microbiome. You can find great sources of fiber in foods like beans, vegetables, nuts, fruits (especially apples), and whole grains. Foods containing dietary fiber provide the growth of “good” bacteria in your gut. Dietary or prebiotic fiber foods metabolize the “good” bacteria and include nutritious staples like bananas, artichokes and whole-grain cereals.
Try a Probiotic Supplement
The way you digest your food affects the health of your gut. Consider taking a probiotic supplement to support digestion and maintain your healthy diet. In addition, it will help to maintain healthy gut flora. The right supplement contains 12 billion viable friendly bacteria per serving in order to promote an ideal environment for beneficial bacteria to do their work. You will feel assured that you are getting what you need.
Eat Fermented Food
Fermented food is a great way to support gut health. A diet that includes fermented foods supports immune responses and advances microbiome diversity. Eating cottage cheese, yogurt, fermented vegetables and kombucha tea are excellent ways to maintain a healthy gut. They help to restore the balance of bacteria and can alleviate digestive issues. A single serving a day can produce positive results.
Reduce Intake of Processed Food
Processed foods typically contain processed sugar and high amounts of unhealthy fats and preservatives. They can negatively affect your gut flora and are generally low in fiber. Foods like pastries, fast food, packaged snacks, and crackers are all prime examples of processed foods. It has the reverse effect of eating food high in fiber, such as whole fruits and vegetables. Your gut reacts to dietary changes, so you will benefit from a healthier gut when you limit your processed food intake.
Drink Plenty of Water
Your body needs water to function, and drinking plenty can benefit your overall health. It is also a way to support your digestion as it keeps things flowing throughout your body. Staying hydrated by continuous water intake is essential. It will benefit you to try to drink at least eight glasses a day.
Get Some Exercise
Your overall health and your gut will benefit from moderate exercise. It can augment the diversity of your gut microbiota, including bacteria, which is beneficial. You can go running, take a long bicycle ride, find a hiking trail or go to the gym and hit the treadmill. You can incorporate even light exercise into your daily routine. It will help maintain your energy levels and optimize your mood.
Manage Occasional Stress
Occasional stress doesn’t support your health. You can positively impact your mood by practicing meditation, taking a yoga class, going for long walks outdoors or getting a massage. Try to do something that you find relaxing. It will benefit you to limit alcohol consumption. You can set aside time to spend with your friends and family or watch a movie that makes you laugh.
Make Sleep a Priority
A good night of sleep is essential. Sleeping for 7 to 9 hours is generally the proper amount. During this time, your body undergoes lots of metabolic processes. A regular sleep schedule maintains these functions to keep your body healthy. Limit screen time and meals right before bed. Sleep schedules train your body and mind to get the rest you need.
Trillions of microorganisms live inside your gut and play a significant role in digesting the food you consume. You may need digestive support if you are experiencing disrupted sleep or stress or if you have a diet high in processed foods and low in healthy whole foods and dietary fiber. Use these tips to help prioritize and maintain your gut fitness and overall health and well-being.
