Gut bacteria (microbiome) is a vital part of our health. Our microbiome affects just about everything in our bodies, from digestive and immune health to our mental health.
A healthy microbiome helps us absorb nutrients, maintain a strong immune system and a healthy weight, support our mood, and so much more.
Our everyday choices and environment highly influence this unique collection of microbes. An unbalanced microbiome can lead to digestive issues, inflammation, skin condition, and chronic diseases. Certain events, such as taking antibiotics, can cause a shift in the microbiome by killing all bacteria -good and bad. It can take as much as a year to recover the diversity that is lost from antibiotic usage. The quality of the food we eat, our levels of stress, and the environment around us also have a significant impact on our microbiome.
Our health literacy starts in our gut!
Simple changes and additions in our diet can help improve and maintain a healthy gut bacteria balance:
Ensure your protein intake comes from a variety of sources
Clear out your cleaning closet, beauty, skin, and body care products. Try to switch to all-natural and organic products that do not contain any harsh chemicals.
Make sure your diet is full of fiber. Add fermented foods to your everyday diet, such as kombucha, cultured veggies, yogurt, kefir, etc.
Keep your stress and inflammation levels at check and exercise.
Avoid processed foods and common allergen foods, such as shellfish, peanuts, dairy, gluten, fried foods, and sugar.
Consider adding a high quality probiotic and prebiotic supplements to your diet.
As always, at William's Natural Foods, we offer a large selection of natural organic foods and supplements, and our staff can help you find the best choice for you.