How To Improve Your Gut Health
Is it just me or have the evenings just become colder and the mornings become darker? I feel as though I have also been seeing more and more ads for the flu vax which usually means that we are rapidly approaching Winter.
I’m not one to wait around until I fall ill and deal with the symptoms then, I much prefer to be proactive. So, given that I know recent research has determined that a healthy gut is linked to a strong immune system, I am gearing up to start feeding my body and soul so I can keep going straight through the cooler months.
You may have noticed the huge focus on using bone broths to build a healthy gut over the last few years, however just the thought of drinking ground up animal bones and collagen makes me feel unwell, so I have set about finding the best plant-based ways to achieve the same benefits.
Here are the best ways to improve your gut health on a plant-based diet:
1. Eat Lots Of Fruit, Vegetables, Beans, Nuts and Seeds
Fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds are the best source of quality nutrients to help promote healthy gut microbiota as they are full of fibre. The fibre is then digested by certain gut bacteria, stimulating their growth. Be sure to include:
- Almonds
- Apples
- Artichokes
- Bananas
- Beans (kidney, pinto, and white)
- Blueberries
- Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, and kale)
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Peas
- Pistachios
- Polenta
- Raspberries
- Walnuts
- Whole grains
2. Eat Foods Rich In Polyphenols
Polyphenols are plant compounds that can contribute to reducing blood pressure, cholesterol, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Polyphenols are found in:
- Dark chocolate
- Green tea
- Onions
- Blueberries
- Broccoli
- Almonds
- Grapes
3. Eat Prebiotic-Rich Foods
Prebiotic-rich foods provide a food source for healthy bacteria and include:
- Bananas
- Brussel sprouts
- Broccoli
- Fruit
- Garlic
- Onions
- Whole grains
4. Eat Probiotic-Rich Foods
Probiotics are available as a supplement, however you can also include fermented foods in your diet as a natural source. Consider miso, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut and tempeh.
5. Stay Hydrated and Reduce Your Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can have a negative effect on your gut health so swap it out for water to give your gut a chance.
6. Minimise High Sugar And High Fat Foods
Convenience foods are often packed with high levels of sugars and fats which do not help improve your gut health and can, in fact, lead to an overgrowth of bad bacteria. Choose healthier alternatives to fill the void.
7. Try The Vee For Life Healing Broth
I swear by this broth. It is packed full of a wide selection of vegetables and herbs that have been proven to promote good gut health. It is delicious and is a staple in our home. Give it a go… Vee For Life Healing Broth.
I always like to focus on the preventative methods rather than dealing with the symptoms of a cold or flu… or even just feeling run down. Maybe it’s because I have kids to worry about or maybe that’s just me. Either way, I am getting started now and recommend you do too.
