We all know gut health is important. But it can also be pretty overwhelming with all the reams of information out there about it.

We’ve put together this article to simplify things, by explaining the three food ‘groups’ you should factor into your diet, to help your gut health:

1. Probiotic-Rich Foods

Probiotics are important to maintain a healthy immune system. They are the live ‘friendly’ bacteria or microorganisms that help maintain a healthy gut by reducing the number of harmful bacteria. Many different strains of probiotics can be found in fermented foods. The most common types are Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. Food rich in probiotics include:

• Yoghurts.
• Yakult.
• Limchi (Korean inspired fermented vegetables).
• Sauerkraut (fermented cabbage).
• Miso are all foods rich in probiotics.

You can also find many new products on the market that have added probiotics.

2. Prebiotic-Rich Foods

Prebiotics are the non-digestible parts of food that passes through the small intestine undigested. It is fermented when it reaches the large colon where they fuel the good bacteria in our gut. Put simply, prebiotics are food for probiotics as they are important fuel sources for the healthy good bacteria in our gut.

Inulin is a common prebiotic. It’s naturally found in food such as:

• Garlic.
• Asparagus.
• Onions.
• Soybeans.
• Leeks.
• Artichokes.

You will also find prebiotics are added to many foods including:

• Bread.
• Breakfast cereals.
• Yoghurt.
• Drinks.

Other sources of prebiotic dietary fibres include fruit (apples and bananas), oats and wholegrain cereals such as barley, rye and wheat bran. These are great ways to boost prebiotic intake.

Many people also turn to That Hippie Co. Collagen Booster & Prebiotic Capsules for a prebiotic kick.

3. Polyphenols

Polyphenols are compounds found abundantly in plant food sources that have antioxidant properties. Some sources of polyphenols such as those found in green and black tea can inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Other sources can stimulate the growth of beneficial microbiota. Other potential benefits include anti-cancer, anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Foods which have polyphenols include:

• Dark berries.
• Vegetables.
• Olives and extra-virgin olive oil.
• Green and black tea.
• Nuts (i.e. almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts and chestnuts).
• Wine.
• Spices (i.e. curry powder, cinnamon, cumin).
• Dried herbs (i.e. oregano, thyme, basil, parsley).

In Summary

Taking good care of your gut is extremely important for long-term health. Introducing more foods from the above groups to your diet is a great starting point. Don’t forget to also take a look at our products to help support you.

We love to know how you’re getting on with your gut health journey! Tag us @thathippieco.