Everyone has a microbiome, which is the name given to describe the colonies of of bacteria, fungi and archaea that live in the human body. The gastrointestinal system alone contains thousands of species and it is only recently that scientists have taken an interest in trying understand the importance of these on the host organism. Recent research is beginning to show that the diversity of species is an important factor in many disease such as diabetes, obesity inflammatory bowel disease, and heart disease. Additionally an individuals microbiome can also influence the way that medications are handled by the body and this can contribute the drugs effectiveness for the condition it is intended to treat. It's a fascinating area of research that I'm sure we will learn and hear lots more about in the future.
The use of antibiotics in todays society can dramatically alter the gut flora, effectively destroying many of the beneficial micro-organisms. Dietary changes can play an important role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, and this is something we do have control over. Increasing the intake of both pre-biotic and pro-biotics foods can lead to positive effects on gut health. Prebiotic foods contain fibres that feed the micro-organism and include whole grains, bananas, soya beans, onions, garlic soybeans artichokes, chicory, kiwi fruits and pomegrenate seeds. Probiotics are food substances or supplements that provide live microflora directly into the gut environment. These foods include live yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, tempeh, kimchi and pickles. There is also a plethora of commercial supplements and nutraceuticals available claiming to support gut flora and health.
Personally I'm usually trying to eat clean and well, opting for a nutritional breakfast choice of low fat high protein live yoghurt, mixed with fruits and nuts, combining pre and pro-biotics into one dish. I also take the time to brew my own home-made fermented beverages such as kombucha and Ginger beer. What do you chose to do for your gut health?
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