5 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR GUT HEALTH

SO YOU CAN START TAKING CARE OF YOUR BODY FROM THE INSIDE-OUT

The father of modern medicine, Hippocrates, declared all disease begins in the gut. Now, over two thousand years later, medics are only just discovering how right he was as they continue to unlock the mysteries of our gut health. Since the bacterial ecosystem in the gut makes up most of our immune system, the wellness of our brains and bodies depends largely on our gut health. With that in mind, here are some gutfriendly foods and supplements to help reduce the risk of chronic disease and mental health conditions.

COLLAGEN

This miraculous protein is vital for the integrity of your gut health. “Both collagen peptides and gelatin are well known for improving gut health and are prescribed by many natural health practitioners for conditions such as leaky gut, which is a condition where small holes are present in the gut lining, which allows small amounts of toxins, food and bacteria into the body tissues without regulation and affects many aspects of health,” nutritionist Lisa Morrison tells WHO. “Collagen provides the building blocks to heal connective tissue, which is essential for a strong and healthy gut lining.” Try incorporating bone broth and salmon into your daily diet or add supplements like Nutra Organics’ Collagen Beauty to your morning smoothie.

FIBRE

Studies show that high-fibre foods have a positive impact on intestinal health. “Gut health is all about an anti-inflammatory diet,” Nicole King, certified holistic health and nutrition guide and founder of the ’10 Essential Elements of Wellbeing©’, tells WHO. “Fibre is essential so be sure include whole grains, beans and legumes, and whole fruits and vegies into your daily diet.”

BONE BROTH

Containing a variety of minerals and compounds, bone broth not only helps boost the immune system but also fights inflammation and seals the gut lining. “Bone broth helps heal the lining of the gut, which in turn supports immune system function and a healthy inflammatory response,” says accredited practising dietitian Kate Save.

GO GREEN

Start the day with a glass of celery juice on an empty stomach for a happy, healthy belly. “Celery is rich in natural sodium, and this helps to stimulate stomach acids to get ready for amazing digestion and detoxification,” world renowned naturopath and bestselling author Katrina Ellis tells WHO.

FERMENTED FOODS

Fill up on fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, yoghurt, tempeh, miso and kefir, which are all dietary sources of probiotics and prebiotics.

If you can, experts suggest making your own naturally fermented foods, which add lots of good bacteria to your diet.