Often referred to as the second brain, good gut health and bacteria (or microbiomes) are crucial to overall health and can affect both the body and brain. 

The health of our gut is of paramount importance if we want to feel good, energized, and live healthy lives. Bad gut health can result in a lot more than just stomach pains and bloating, leading to potential inflammation that can trigger long health term problems such as IBS, Crohns, and Colitis and can even lead to poor mental health causing depression. More and more people are suffering from the consequences of inflammatory bowel disease, which can lead to surgery and a need for ostomy supplies, so it’s important to take gut health seriously. 

To keep your gut happy and healthy, here are five foods for improved digestion and health.

Bananas

Thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties and high levels of minerals such as magnesium and potassium, bananas have always been a go-to food prescribed by many medical professionals for upset stomachs. Gentle on the stomach, bananas balance the bacteria in our gut, reduce inflammation in the body, and are also high in fiber, making going to the toilet a lot easier.

Bone Broth

Helping to heal the lining of the gut, bone broth is a rich source of collagen, which is excellent for both your stomach and skin. The bone marrow contains exceptionally high amounts of nutrients essential for boosting the immune system, repairing cell walls, and promoting healthier cells in the blood resulting in overall better general health. Consume bone broth via soups made from animal bones such as chicken, turkey, or beef to aid your digestion and soothe your gut.

Pineapple

Pineapples contain bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion by helping to break down proteins from large food molecules, effectively placing less strain on your stomach. Bromelain reduces inflammation that can cause damage to the gut’s lining and acts to counter pain. It has also been known to reduce candida growth, which can lead to leaky gut syndrome. This superfood also contains high levels of nutrients such as potassium, iron, and zinc; however, it’s best not to overeat in one sitting due to its acidity. 

Leafy Greens

We are continually being told to add more leafy greens into our diets and for good reason. Alongside many other health benefits, leafy greens are rich in fiber, which contributes to good gut health and promotes good bacteria growth while killing off the harmful bacteria. As an added bonus, they also contain essential vitamins and powerful antioxidants to keep our bodies happy and healthy. 

Fermented Foods

Trending in the diet and health world, fermented foods are a great natural probiotic that can help with weight loss as well as improved gut health. Full of organic acids and live bioactive enzymes, foods such as Sauerkraut, pickles, and kimchi can balance the levels of acid and proteins found in the digestive tract and improve overall digestive functions by providing good bacteria. Sauerkraut, in particular, is great due to its high fiber content, keeping bloating and indigestion at bay. 

Start to incorporate some of the above into your daily diet for a strong gut and great health!