Not all bacteria are bad!

In fact, many of the bacteria in your gut, known as your gut microbiome, actually play an important role in keeping you healthy!

cartoon bacteria

Having a healthy microbiome not only helps with digestion but can also benefit your mental health and help your immune system work better.

But how do you keep your gut healthy?

Diversify Your Diet

Aim to eat various types of fruits and vegetables! They're high in fiber, which helps healthy gut bacteria grow. A diverse diet = a diverse microbiome!

Having diverse bacteria species in your microbiome gives you access to a wide range of benefits from supporting bone and brain health to affecting heart health and weight.

Some fiber-rich veggies include:

  • Broccoli

  • Asparagus

  • Spinach

Find Fermented Foods

Fermented foods are a natural source of probiotics, meaning they can add beneficial bacteria to your gut microbiome.

For example, yogurt is a fermented food that can boost digestive health by reducing the symptoms of common gastrointestinal disorders such as bloating, diarrhea and constipation.

Other fermented food options include:

  • Kefir

  • Sauerkraut

  • Kimchi

  • Kombucha

Quiz

Jane has been suffering from digestive issues and wants to make some changes to improve her gut health. What could she do? Select all that apply.

Grab A Mug

Polyphenols are plant compounds that also help boost healthy bacteria in your gut and provide benefits like reducing inflammation.

A cupof coffee or tea (green or black) is one way to get some polyphenols!

Others include:

  • Blueberries and strawberries

  • Almonds

  • Veggies like artichokes and onions

  • Olives

De-stress

Because stress can have a negative impact on your microbiome and vice versa, an unhealthy gut can also have negative effects on your mental health.

Finding healthy ways to manage your stress can help you avoid this negative cycle!

Some great ways to manage stress include:

Quiz

Which of the following could help to improve your gut health?

Take Action

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Boost your gut health with these steps!

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