Foods for a healthy stomach

Try these foods that emphasize total body function

by Dr. Kathleen Ireland Gregg

One of the most crucial parts of the body when it comes to health is the microbiome or the trillions of bacteria that live in our gut. Scientists are learning that the bacterial communities that call us home are linked to everything from body weight to asthma to acne.

Having the right balance of bugs may keep us well in the long term since some bacteria in the gut are good for our health while other strains raise our risk for disease.

We shape our microbiome makeup through our everyday diet. Many of the foods listed here are high in nutrients like fiber, which feed healthy gut microbes.

They produce short-chain fatty acids that get absorbed into the bloodstream and reduce inflammation while strengthening the immune system.

These gut-friendly foods also contain probiotics or prebiotics which boost gut bacteria diversity. bacterial colonies already in our gut. Some probiotic-filled foods to consider adding to your diet include Kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, kombucha, miso, apple cider vinegar, and pickles (to get that healthy bacteria, buy pickles brined in salt water, not vinegar).

Probiotics are bacteria that are Prebiotic foods include garlic, onions, very similar to or the same as good bananas, apples, asparagus and more.

Prebiotics, on the other hand, are a type of plant fiber often found in vegetables that nourish good bacteria.

Both are important for keeping you regular and building a better microbiome.

Dr. Kathleen Ireland Gregg is a Naturopath/Physcotherapist at Health Matters: A Center for Wellness. Reach her at (517) 641-8000 or email: drgregg@healthmattersmi.com