The food you eat plays a huge role in your gut health. Here are nine foods that will aid in a healthy digestive system.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a traditional food made out of fermented milk or dairy products, and it is usually fermented by lactic acid bacteria. Yogurt also contains friendly and helpful bacteria known as probiotics, which are essential to keeping your gut healthy.
Not all yogurts contain probiotics. Make sure to look for “live and active cultures” on the package when shopping.
Ginger
Ginger contains essential compounds called gingerols. These compounds help keep your digestive system from becoming inflamed. It is a natural remedy for upset stomach and nausea, and some studies revealed potential anti-cancer properties.
Try chewing a fresh piece or steeping grated ginger into your tea for a gut-friendly treat.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms also produce biologically active polysaccharides called beta-glutens, which help strengthen your immune system and keep bad bacteria in the gut in check. They can be eaten raw, lightly grilled, and even as a savory alternative to meat.
Fennel
Fennel is often used to add flavor to food, but it contains essential amounts of fiber that help fight against constipation add improves the regularity of your digestive tract. It also contains chemicals that relax muscles. This helps fight against bloating, flatulence, and cramping.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is extremely easy to digest and versatile to use. It has anti-inflammatory properties, and it contains an antibacterial acid known as lauric acid that keeps harmful bacteria under control.
Mint
Like coconut oil, mint helps relax intestinal muscles. This reduces symptoms of spasms and pain, and it also relieves bloating and gas. Chew a sprig of mint after meals, or enjoy a refreshing tea.
Whole Grains
A whole grain is considered to be any product made out of the complete seed or kernel. This means that it contains the bran, germ, and endosperm. Whole oats and other products made from whole wheat are considered to be whole grains. This adds fiber to your diet which helps avoid and reduce constipation. Certain green fibers also contain prebiotics that help introduce healthy bacteria into your gut.
Just make sure not to over-indulge. Many whole grains contain gluten, which can inflame the lining of your digestive tract, especially if you have an intolerance.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a sweet-tasting tuber that is rich in Vitamin A, an essential vitamin for a healthy digestive tract. They also contain an antioxidant called anthocyanins. Studies show these antioxidants may even help prevent colon cancer.
Fermented Foods
Fermented foods like kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut, and sourdough are full of probiotics, which contribute to a healthy and diverse gut biome. It also lowers inflammation, which helps lower your risk of heart disease, cancer, and other issues.
Your Food Choices Affect Your Health
These nine foods will go a long way to aiding healthy digestion and promoting a healthy gut. Try adding one of these foods to your diet every week to gain the benefits while checking for food intolerances. Want to learn more? Read our other articles for more great tips!
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