The gut microbiome, it’s the new health buzz, but what actually is it? Well, all the microorganisms that live in your intestines, the flora and fauna and all the by-products that they produce create your gut microbiome. A healthy microbiome thrives on diversity of fiber, proteins, yeasts, molds (yes, what do you think is the blue in blue cheese?) and whatever else you put in your mouth. There are millions of bacteria that live inside you and when you feed them right, they do you good. A healthy gut reduces sugar cravings, promotes a more restful night’s sleep, lowers blood pressure and promotes the capture of free radicals thereby slowing the aging process and protecting the body from cancer. Choose organic foods when possible, wild caught fish and antibiotic free meat and poultry. Shop the perimeter of the grocery store and avoid processed foods, especially white flour and sugar, as much as possible. Eat a large salad daily. Your gut loves fiber. Be sure to add legumes, chickpeas are a favorite of mine. Fermented foods are also necessary to optimize your gut health. Use apple cider vinegar with your salad dressings. Other fermented foods include kimchee, fermented pickles-found in the refrigerator aisle, kefir and yogurt. Love your gut and it will love you back. See your health care provider for more information.
Try out my favorite : Keifer berry parfait (see below)
Keifer Berry Parfait
YOU WILL NEED :
- 1/3 C blueberries frozen or fresh
- 1/3 C raspberries frozen or fresh
- 1 t ground flax seed
- 1 t ground chia seed
- 1/2 C Plain Keifer
- 1T raw almond butter
HERE’S HOW YOU DO IT :
Layer berries add flax and chia seed. Cover and shake lightly to disperse ground seed. Pour Keifer to cover berries. Chill for up to 2 days. Add almond butter before serving.
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