Did you know?
Our gut has a unique group of bacteria and microorganisms that are largely developed within the first 1,000 days of life. This “gut microbiome” seems to play a big role in our digestion, immunity (protection against disease) and our mental health!
We think that gut bacteria may help to make up to 95% of the body’s serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that helps with mood, feelings of well-being, sleeping, and digestion. The gut keeps a balance between helpful and harmful bacteria. When that balance is disrupted problems may happen. Gut bacteria imbalance has been linked to:
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Obesity
- Cognitive (mental) and mood problems
- Asthma
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Diabetes
Many factors can affect our gut health, such as our diet, stress, environment, and medicines (like antibiotics).
Foods that help with gut health:
- Eat whole foods and limit processed foods. Heavily processed foods are high in food additives that can disrupt the gut.
- Add fresh fruits and veggies into your diet. Frozen fruits without added sugars or additives are good choices too.
- Include probiotic-rich foods, such as plain yogurt.
- Add fermented foods, such as kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.