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.