There are around 40 trillion bacteria in your body, most of which are found in your gut. Collectively, they are known as your gut microbiome, and they’re incredibly important for overall health. However, certain types of bacteria in your intestines can also contribute to many diseases. Gut health also affects your mental health, weight, blood sugar, and liver.

Common symptoms of an unhealthy gut include upset stomach, digestive issues, food cravings, depression or mood issues, trouble sleeping, fatigue and skin issues.

Your gut relies on just the right balance of different bacteria to digest your food and to prevent infection and inflammation. Many factors, including the foods you eat, can impact the type of bacteria found in your digestive tract. Here are 6 ways you can improve your gut bacetera and your health!

1. Eat a diverse range of foods. 

A diverse microbiome is considered a healthy one. This is because the more species of bacteria you have, the more health benefits they may be able to contribute to. A diet consisting of different food types can lead to a more diverse microbiome.

2. Eat lots of vegetables, legumes, beans, and fruit.

 Fruits and vegetables are the best sources of nutrients for a healthy microbiome. They are high in fiber, which your body can’t digest. However, certain bacteria in your gut can digest fiber, which stimulates their growth. Beans and legumes also contain very high amounts of fiber.

One study found that following a diet rich in fruits and vegetables prevented the growth of some disease-causing bacteria. Apples, artichokes, blueberries, almonds, and pistachios have also all been shown to increase Bifidobacteria in humans. Bifidobacteria are considered beneficial bacteria, as they can help prevent intestinal inflammation and enhance gut health.

3. Polyphenols

Polyphenol-rich foods, like berries, cherries, plums, beans, nuts, artichoke, and spinach, can increase the amount of helpful Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus bacteria in your gut.

4. Probiotics

There is also good research to suggest that probiotic-containing and fermented foods, like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, tempeh, kombucha, and miso, in conjunction with an overall healthy diet and lifestyle, can promote good gut health. You may also consider a targeted supplement to help support the good bacteria in your gut, too. 

5. Eliminate or cut back on foods that harm the gut. 

Red meat, fried foods, foods with antibiotics, alcohol and caffiene top the list of foods that can disrupt healthy gut bacteria and create health issues.

6. Mindful eating

And don’t forget to chew your food. There are important enzymes in your saliva that start the digestion process. If you don’t adequately chew your food, it puts more work on the digestive system and can lead to bloating, gas, and other digestive symptoms.

If you are ready to get your gut healthy, check out Gut Health Digestion & Microbiome Support. It is my go to to ensure that I keep my gut balanced and healthy. It can be mixed with water or added to a smoothie. Super easy and so good for you!