There is a growing awareness of the importance of gut health in NZ and its impact on our overall health and well-being. The gut is home to a huge number of microbes, many of which are essential for our health. However, the balance of these microbes can be easily disrupted, leading to a number of health problems.
Fortunately, there are a number of simple dietary changes that can help to encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and promote gut health. In this article, we will take a look at the top 6 foods for gut health.
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Fermented Foods:
Fermented foods are a powerful way to nourish the gut and encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria. The fermentation process breaks down complex sugars, starches and proteins into simple compounds that can easily be digested by your gut bacteria. The most common fermented food is yogurt, but there are many other probiotic foods including sauerkraut, kefir and kombucha tea.
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Garlic:
Garlic contains allicin, an antibacterial compound that helps to fight off harmful pathogens in the gut. It also contains allicin, another compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
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Onions:
Onions are rich in sulphur-containing compounds called flavonoids which have been shown to help promote healthy gut flora. They also contain quercetin which has been shown to be an effective treatment for diarrhea.
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Artichokes:
Artichokes are rich in folate, a B vitamin that helps reduce inflammation in the body and promotes healthy nerve function. Artichokes also contain antioxidants such as quercetin and kaempferol, which help protect against free radical damage and fight inflammation in the body. This makes artichokes one of the best foods for gut health!
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Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for many different health conditions, including digestive problems such as bloating and constipation. This might be due to the fact that it contains acetic acid, which has been shown to counterbalance some of the negative effects of pro-inflammatory compounds produced by gut bacteria.
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Dark Chocolate:
Dark chocolate contains several beneficial compounds, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which can help to promote gut health through their antioxidant activity. Chocolate is also a source of magnesium, which plays an important role in many processes within our bodies including muscle function and nervous system regulation.
The Bottom Line:
Eating the right foods can help to improve your gut health in NZ and improve your overall health.
