If you are suffering chronic pain, immune system issues, allergies, and skin conditions such as acne or eczema? If yes then – believe me or not, these health problems could be traced from an unhealthy gut. As Hippocrates states, all disease starts in the gut which is why ensuring the health of our gut from the food we eat is truly important as it plays a key role on keeping our health’s at its best.
In this article, let’s find out why we should keep our gut healthy and determine the essential foods to consume in order to keep it running smoothly.
Are you ready?
But before we go, ask this question to yourself – “is gut health really that important?” the answer is absolutely yes.
Aforementioned, our gut is considered as a second brain which basically means there is a connection between the gut and the brain. Remember those times you were “hangry” (hungry plus angry)? That is because your gut is somehow inflamed or irritated and eventually signals your central nervous system to trigger mood changes – so, grab and munch some foods (healthy foods) to keep your gut at its best.
Speaking of healthy foods, here are some of it that can surely give a variety of nutrients that can boost not only your gut health but also boost your both overall mental and physical performance.
Best gut-healing food #1: Bone Broth
Keeping our cells healthy is one of the key to an optimized and better general health as they are our body’s vital unit in building and rebuilding strong immunity against any diseases such as digestive disorders, viral and bacterial infections, and leaky gut syndrome – one way to ensure you are absorbing enough nutrients is by consuming bone broth. This food (or soup) is basically made from animal bones such as beef, lamb, venison, turkey, fish, pork, and chicken.
The bone marrow contains numerous amount of nutrients that are essential for boosting the immune system and helps in building healthier cells especially in the blood – so, devour some hot bone broth soup in the winter.
Best gut-healing food #2: Banana
Here’s a fun fact, did you know that we are actually only 10% human? The 90% percent of our cells are considered microbial cells. Banana acts as a peacemaker that keeps the harmony between the good microbes called phyla living in our body’s bacterial ecosystem. This is the main reason why most doctors or any medical professional tends to prescribe banana for patients who have an upset stomach thanks to anti-inflammation properties and high levels of nutrients such as magnesium and potassium.
Best gut-healing food #3: Pineapple
If you love eating pineapples (maybe not on pizza), then you are one way of keeping your gut healthy. This superfood is known for its numerous health benefits all thanks to its high level of nutrient-giving compounds such as potassium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, and so much more. The high concentration of enzyme called bromelain has been proven by several studies to effectively reduce the growth of candida which is a major cause of a leaky gut syndrome.
However, eating too many pineapples can upset your stomach because of its acidity, so better not munch a whole pineapple in one sitting if I were you.
Best gut-healing food #4: Grass-fed Meat
Knowing what your meat eats before you eat is very important. Grass-fed meats from animals such as cows, turkeys, chickens, and lambs can contain a high amount of essential nutrients that can keep your digestion running smoothly. Animal raised in factory farms, and are injected with antibiotics and hormones are linked to the development of leaky gut syndrome – so, these ones are definitely a no-no. Instead, opt for an organic one.
Best gut-healing food #5: Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a bad boy for killing off bad bacteria and acts as a natural anti-microbial. This fermented tonic can be beneficial for those who are suffering from stomach ulcers and acid reflux. It also contains several healthy enzymes as well as organic acids that are great for stabilizing blood sugar levels, boost digestive process, and prevent any development of inflammation.
Best gut-healing food #6: Collagen Peptides and/or Beef Gelatine
In addition to bone broth, the two main nutrients that are both rich in amino acids are the collagen and gelatin. This power duo helps in building a better and stronger joint, skin, and gut lining as well as improving the skin health by preventing any wrinkle formation, reducing skin damage, and strengthens the skin tissues. Therefore, if you want something to fights off the effects of aging while keeping your gut health at its best, then you should consider using collagen and gelatin from any sources such as protein powders.
Best gut-healing food #7: Ginger
Popularly used as a remedy for treating several skin conditions, respiratory issues, and of course, leaky gut syndrome. Thanks to its several essential properties such as antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and antiparasitic agents. Surprisingly, the study also proved that consuming ginger (as well as essential oils) can limit the formation of cancer cells while boosting and strengthens our body’s immunity at the same time.
Ginger can also improve the digestive juices production including stomach acid, pancreatic enzymes, and bile.
Best gut-healing food #8: Coconut oil or milk
The coconut tree surely is a tree of life, from its roots, bark, leaves, and of course – its fruit. Oil extracted from coconut is known to boost our body’s ability to increase metabolism and energy. Plus, it also supports healthy digestion as it absorbs fat-soluble, calcium, magnesium, and other essential vitamins.
The balancing effect of coconut oil can help in candida or IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) imbalances in the gut.
Best gut-healing food #9: Fermented foods
Consuming fermented foods can be beneficial for the body most especially on the microorganisms in our stomach. The live bioactive enzymes, B vitamins, and organic acids on the fermented foods can improve the body’s digestive functions and balance the levels of acid, bile, and pancreatic enzymes in the digestive tract.
Best gut-healing food #10: Leafy greens (spinach, kale, broccoli, collard, and so on)
We all know that eating leafy vegetables can offer numerous amount of benefits in our health. From powerful antioxidants to essential vitamins and minerals – leafy greens surely has it all.
Bonus gut-healing food: Probiotics
In order to replenish the good bacteria in the gut, you can also opt for probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt. Countless studies have been proved that probiotics can be beneficial for our gut health.
Conclusion:
The foods we eat is the main contributing factor that influences our different bodily functions and overall health. Thus, making sure that all the food we consume is healthy and safe will optimize our both physical and mental performance. Combining these gut-healing foods with regular exercise, enough rest, and healthy habit will definitely give you the guts (no pun intended) to take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle.
article by Jess from www.guthealthlab.com