Your gut microbiome is a little ecosystem living inside you. It contains trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and other microbes. And like any ecosystem, it needs the right environment to thrive. One of the biggest influences on your gut microbiome is the food you eat.
Think variety, not perfection
When it comes to gut health, there is no single perfect food. Different bacteria use different types of fibre and plant compounds as fuel, so eating a wide variety of foods can help provide a broader range of nutrients for your microbiome.
Try including a mixture of:
● Vegetables
● Fruit
● Beans and lentils
● Wholegrains
● Nuts
● Seeds
● Herbs and spices
You do not need to completely change your diet overnight. Adding one extra plant food to a meal is a simple place to start.
Fibre is important
Fibre is found naturally in plant foods and plays an important role in digestive health. Some types of fibre pass through the upper digestive system relatively intact and reach the colon, where they can be fermented by gut bacteria. This process can produce short chain fatty acids, which have a range of roles within the body.
Feed your bacteria regularly
Your gut microbiome responds to your lifestyle over time.That is why consistency matters more than chasing the latest gut health trend. Eating a varied diet most days, staying active, sleeping well and managing stress are all ways to support your gut as part of your overall lifestyle.
What about fermented foods?
Foods such as live yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and other fermented foods can contain microorganisms. However, not every fermented food contains live bacteria by the time it reaches your plate, so check the label if this is something you are specifically looking for.
A little support every day
There is no need to make gut health complicated. Think variety. Think fibre. Think movement. Think sleep. And think consistency. For those looking to add live bacteria to their routine, Symprove is designed as a simple daily 70ml shot taken before breakfast.