Foods to Eat & Avoid for Gut Health

The Food Matters Team THE FOOD MATTERS TEAM

Here at Food Matters, we understand that true wellness begins from within. And at the very heart of your well-being lies your gut. It's a bustling ecosystem, a complex community of microbes that influence everything from your digestion to your mood. So, let's talk about how to cultivate a thriving inner garden.  

The Good Stuff: Foods That Feed Your Gut

  • Fiber-Rich Foods:

    • Think vibrant vegetables, luscious fruits, and hearty whole grains. Fiber is the fuel that your beneficial gut bacteria crave. It keeps things moving, promotes regularity, and fosters a diverse microbiome.  

    • Examples: Leafy greens, berries, oats, apples, and legumes. 

  • Fermented Foods:

    • These are packed with probiotics, the live microorganisms that replenish and diversify your gut flora.  

    • Examples: Sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and yogurt (look for live and active cultures). 

  • Prebiotic Foods:

    • These foods contain fibers that act as food for the good bacteria.  

    • Examples: Onions, garlic, bananas, and asparagus.  (Don’t skip out on THIS delicious prebiotic tray bake.)

  • Polyphenol-Rich Foods:

    • These plant compounds act as antioxidants, and also feed beneficial gut bacteria.  

    • Examples: Berries, dark chocolate, olives, and green tea.  

The Not-So-Good Stuff: Foods to Limit or Avoid

  • Processed Foods:

    • These are often loaded with refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives that can disrupt your gut balance.  

    • Examples: Fast food, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks.  

  • Excessive Sugar:

    • Sugar feeds harmful bacteria and can lead to dysbiosis, an imbalance in your gut microbiome.  

  • Artificial Sweeteners:

    • Studies suggest that artificial sweeteners can negatively impact gut bacteria.  

  • Excessive Red Meat:

    • Some studies suggest red meat can negatively affect the gut microbiome.  

  • Excessive Alcohol:

    • Alcohol can irritate the gut lining and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.  

Remember, gut health isn't just about what you eat. It's also about how you live.

  • Manage stress: Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your gut. 

  • Prioritize sleep: Quality sleep is essential for a healthy gut.  

  • Stay hydrated: Water keeps things flowing smoothly.  

By nourishing your gut with wholesome foods and embracing a balanced lifestyle, you can cultivate a thriving inner ecosystem and unlock your full potential for health and vitality. If you want to dive deeper into gut health, make sure to check out this FREE masterclass with Food Matters Institute expert teacher, Christa Orecchio HERE. >>

The Food Matters Team

BY THE FOOD MATTERS TEAM

The Food Matters Team is made up of foodies that love getting in the kitchen and experimenting! When we aren't spreading our message with the world, that's where you will find us and just like you, we don't always succeed with our recipes, but that's part of the fun, right?