Gut Microbiome
The gut microbiome is made up of a combination of bacteria, viruses, and fungi and it plays an important role in immune health, heart health, brain health, healthy blood sugar levels, and weight management, among other things. The diversity of the microbiome is impacted by foods we eat, stress, illnesses, and more.
An imbalance in the microbiome may contribute to things such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome); heart disease; increased risk for certain types of cancer; diabetes; weight gain; anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses; and even how your body responds to infection.
Most individuals at one point or another will face digestive unrest. This can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome and may manifest in individual symptoms or a combination of symptoms, including:
- Increased Gas (flatulence)
- Bloating
- Abdominal Pain or Cramping
- Nausea
- Diarrhea or Loose Stools
- Constipation
- Heartburn
Ways to Improve Gut Health
Your gut bacteria are extremely important for many aspects of health. The best way to maintain a healthy microbiome is to:
- Eat a diverse range of foods (whole grain, vegetables, fruits)
- Eat fermented foods (yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha)
- Eat prebiotic foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Eat whole grains
- Eat a plant-based diet
- Increase your intake of probiotics
Just remember, the best way to maintain a healthy microbiome is to eat a range of fresh, whole foods, mainly from plant sources like fruits, veggies, legumes, beans and whole grains.
Photo: ©iStock.com/piotr_malczyk
