Your digestive system is a complex machine that affects how your entire body functions and contributes greatly to your overall health. One of the best and simplest ways to promote a healthy digestive tract is through your diet. Establishing a well-balanced microbiome through nutrition is critical to maintaining your digestive health and immune system. Here are a few foods that when included in your regular diet can positively influence the bacteria in your gastrointestinal system and your overall health.
Leafy Greens for Digestive Health
Vitamins C, K, A, and other nutrients like folate and fiber can all be found in food items like spinach and kale. These leafy greens also possess a certain type of sugar that fuels healthy gut bacteria growth.
Prebiotics for Microbiome Health
While probiotics are important, they need prebiotics in order to survive and thrive. Foods that contain soluble fiber are nutrient-dense foods that cultivate a healthy environment for your digestive system’s microbes. Foods with these beneficial compounds include:
- Bananas
- Garlic
- Asparagus
- Oats
- Onions
- Chicory
- Soybeans
Probiotics for Healthier Gut Bacteria
Probiotics help to boost the healthy bacteria in your gut that regulates your digestive tract. Foods that contain these microorganisms include:
- Kombucha
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Yogurt
When adding probiotics to your diet, be sure that your food has live, active cultures. Supplements can also used to increase your probiotic intake.
Lean Protein for Gastrointestinal Health
Because foods that are rich in fat cause the colon to contract, as well as triggering IBS systems, lean proteins are an ideal option. Red meat has a high fat content that can cause digestive issues and other health problems, so leaner proteins and light meat like chicken, pork, and turkey can provide the nutrients you need without potentially harmful side effects.
Whole Grains for Better Digestion
A key staple of your diet for good digestion and the abatement of common gastrointestinal issues is whole grains. Whole grains provide more fiber than refined carbohydrates (pasta and bread). Short-chain fatty acids are produced when your gut can ferment fiber. While your diet should be balanced, it should absolutely include the fiber that whole grain foods possess.
These are only a few types of food that offer digestive health benefits. A well-rounded and balanced diet is crucial to a healthy lifestyle. If you are having gastrointestinal issues or other digestive problems, the expert staff at Lane Gatroenterology is here to help.
