The gut microbiome is a community of trillions of microbes living in your large intestine. Together they influence your metabolism, your body weight, immune system, appetite and even your mood. There are more of them than all the other cells in your body put together, & they weigh more than your brain. Scientists tell us that a more diverse community of microbes, results in a healthier body.
So how can you increase the diversity of the good bacteria in your microbiome? They feed on the fibre in your diet that you can’t break down, and like any living thing, if you provide the food they like, they will multiply.
To speak to an experienced Sunshine Coast Nutritionist and Kinesiologist about improving your microbiome
call Sunshine Coast Nutritionist Karen Emans on 0408748532
So how can you increase the diversity of the good bacteria in your microbiome? They feed on the fibre in your diet that you can’t break down, and like any living thing, if you provide the food they like, they will multiply.
- Eat a large variety of fresh seasonal veggies and fruit. Each type of vegetable or fruit feeds different bacteria so for diversity of bacteria, variety in diet is essential
- Inulin is a prebiotic fibre that results in an increase of Bifido-bacteria. It can be found in artichokes, leeks, onions and garlic, & is also available as a powder to use in small amounts.
- Nuts, seeds, berries, coffee and tea provide good fibre your microbiome loves.
- Fermented food like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt and kefir introduce new bacteria into your gut & can be a healthy & delicious addition to your daily diet
- Minimise alcohol intake because more than a small intake can kill bacteria in your gut
- Avoid sugar, artificial sugar & processed food as they disrupt the microbiome
- Beans and lentils provide good sources of fibre to feed your gut microbes. Soaking and pressure cooking them, reduces the inflammatory lectins in these foods by about 80 - 90%.
- Gardening and spending time in the country increase healthy microbes in the gut
- Having a pet is also associated with a more diverse microbiome
- Only take antibiotics if you need them because of course they are designed to kill bacteria, & do it quite effectively
To speak to an experienced Sunshine Coast Nutritionist and Kinesiologist about improving your microbiome
call Sunshine Coast Nutritionist Karen Emans on 0408748532