Best Foods for Digestion and Good Gut Health

The more and more we learn about the complexity of our guts, the more we understand how crucial this system is to our health. Our guts not only play a key role in how we feel physically but there’s an intense connection to our brains and other internal systems. It is important to keep your gut populated with good bacteria. In addition, there are numerous foods that can help your gut stay happy and healthy.

Role of good gut health in your overall body

Recent studies have proved that gastrointestinal (GI) has a more significant role in your health than what people had previously realized. The impact of gut health is visible on various systems to the body, none of which seem to be directly linked with depression.

Everything, including immunity, emotional stress, and chronic illnesses, is influenced in one way or another by your gut health. Your gut is home to a lot of bacteria, plenty of which are useful for the body and its various systems. These microbes in the gut play a role in breaking down food items, turning them into nutrients valuable for the body.

Furthermore, these helpful bacteria of the gut also enable your body to fight against harmful bacteria. Multiplication of the good bacteria ensures that unhealthy bacteria are not left with much space to grow.

If the amount of harmful bacteria in your gut increases, it can lead to various chronic illnesses, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome, among others. Thus, it is apparent to pay attention to improving your gut health so that your overall quality of life is not affected.

Food items that can be of help

It is crucial that you take the required measures to maintain the health of your gut. Among the various factors, the food that you eat can play a pivotal role in this respect. Let us provide you with a list of some of the best food items that not only enhance gut health but also help you in building strong muscle.

Yogurt

Yogurt is enriched with good bacteria, referred to as probiotics. They ensure good gut motility and make sure that digestion is smooth. You can start your day with a cup of fresh yogurt and add fruit to it to get the most healthy and delicious breakfast.

Bananas

This is perhaps the healthiest snack you can have whenever you feel hungry in the middle of the day. It is enriched with fiber and healthy minerals that promote gut health and improve gut motility, thereby paving the way for easy digestion.

Brussels sprouts

Although not many are fond of brussels sprouts, they are indeed quite good for your gut health. They contain fiber and sulfur compounds that fight against harmful bacteria. You can create a delicious dish with brussels sprouts by stir-frying them with bacon and garlic.

Peas

Fiber is crucial for your gut health. Therefore, it is advisable to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your diet that are enriched with fiber. Peas are one such example. They keep your system in balance as they are filled with soluble and insoluble fiber. The best thing is that you can eat them in various forms, in soups, salads, or even add to stir-fries.

Kefir

This is a probiotic yogurt drink that is made via the fermentation of milk. It is rich in beneficial bacteria. This is just the smoothie you should choose if you are serious about your gut health. Kefir can also be used as a salad dressing.

Kombucha

Everyone is well aware of how important water is for health. However, another drink that can be great for your gut is Kombucha, which is a fermented tea rich in probiotics. This refreshing drink has a sharp taste resembling vinegar.

Miso

Made from fermented soya beans, miso is enriched with enzymes and bacteria useful for your body. Therefore, you can be assured that your gut is in for a treat when you have it. It can be used as a paste for dressings or soup. This is perfect for those looking to avoid dairy food items.

Sourdough

This is what you can call a fashionable food item. However, the best thing is that it is quite healthy as well. This is a healthy alternative to regular bread since it is more digestible. It releases energy slowly, ensuring you feel full for quite a bit of time. This bread is made after the dough is fermented. Sourdough makes excellent and delicious toast (or garlic toast).

Sauerkraut

This is made after fermentation of finely chopped cabbage. Not only is it filled with probiotics, but it is also an excellent source of fiber and vitamins as well. To top it, it is quite delicious. Thus, you would not have to compromise on taste for your healthy gut.

Almonds

Everyone knows how beneficial almonds are. However, not many are aware of how healthy almonds are for your gut. They have excellent probiotic properties, ensuring that they promote gut health significantly. Almonds are also enriched with fiber, fatty acids, and polyphenols. Therefore, if you find yourself craving some snacks, almonds would prove to be a perfect choice.

Olive oil

Gut bacteria benefit from fatty acids and phenols. Thus, it is advisable to cook your food in olive oil if you want to lead a healthy life. It also reduces gut inflammation. Add olive oil to your salad dressing and enjoy the various advantages that it has to offer.

Final words

We have outlined some of the best food items you can incorporate into your daily life to promote good health. Items like garlic, ginger, and unsaturated fats are just as good for your digestive system. The important thing is to realize the importance of maintaining good gut health. Once you understand how the health of your gut affects your quality of life, you would be motivated to eat those things that are good for the system.