BE GUT HEALTHY
You have trillions of bacteria, both inside and outside your body. In fact you have more of them than you have cells .Almost all are good for your gut. Not only do they help you digest food, but they also do have more functions all over your body and can be beneficial in maintaining physical and mental health.
Gut microbiome is home base for bacteria in your digestive tract. Here, they help you break down food and turn nutrients into things your body can use. They stop growing when they run out of food, so you’ll only have what you need.
In the gut microbiome, the “good” bacteria do more than just help with digestion. They help keep your “bad” bacteria in check. They multiply so often that the unhealthy kind don’t have space for growth and development. When you have a healthy balanced bacteria in your gut it’s called equilibrium.
Gut health refers to balance of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. Looking after the health of the gut and maintaining the right balance of these microorganisms is vital for physical and mental health, immunity and more.
Eating plant-based diet promotes a healthy gut, which can help keep disease at a bay and benefit your metabolism, digestive tract and immune system.
Should you go vegan for the sake of your gut?
If you want to eat meat you can eat meat! Moderation is the key!
Research suggests that eating plants and whole grains help the good bacteria flourish by supplying complex carbohydrates that the human body can't digest — so they become bacteria food. Certain foods with active cultures, such as yogurt, kimchi and kombucha, can also add helpful bacteria to your system.
Try this: Focus on eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Fruits and vegetables are not only highly nutritious but also contain complex carbohydrates to help good bacteria to thrive.
Research further shows that fat and sugar nourish bad bacteria, thereby increasing the prevalence of those bacteria that cause disease. In addition, studies suggest diets high in animal protein are correlated with a more unfavorable bacteria makeup.
To foster a healthy gut microbiota, limit processed foods in your diet, as these are often high in sugar and fat.
Try replacing animal sources of protein with plant sources of protein such as legumes, nuts, tofu and tempeh during the week.
So remember: Eating fruits and vegetables isn't just good for your health, it's also good for your microscopic companions.