Foods that are in their natural state, or are minimally processed, are known as whole foods. They are generally recognized as foods that can support the balance and health of the gut microbiome, which is the “community of microscopic living organisms—including bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes”1that live in the gastrointestinal tract. Nature knows best, because whole foods provide digestion-friendly nutrients, including soluble and insoluble fiber, prebiotics, vitamins and minerals, all of which support digestive wellness.
Insoluble dietary fiber is found in foods such as whole grains and vegetables. Insoluble fiber promotes regularity while also supporting the movement of food through the digestive system. Its counterpart, soluble fiber, is found in foods like fruits, seeds and beans. Soluble fiber can support nutrient absorption and acts as fuel for the microorganisms in the gut microbiome and can support the health of the intestinal barrier. Some of the best foods for gut health include:2
• Yogurt and kefir: Contain probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can support a healthy gut microbiome and digestive wellness when consumed in adequate amounts.
• Fruits and vegetables: Apples, bananas, berries, broccoli and leafy greens provide fiber that helps keep digestion regular.
• Whole grains: Oats, brown rice, and whole wheat products are rich in fiber that supports a healthy gut microbiome.
• Beans and legumes: Lentils, chickpeas and beans are excellent sources of fiber and prebiotics. Prebiotics act as nourishment for the beneficial microorganisms in the gut as well as supporting mineral absorption, such as calcium and magnesium.
• Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and tempeh may support the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Fermentation can provide beneficial microorganisms.
• Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds provide fiber and healthy fats that support digestive wellness.
Not sure if you’re eating enough of the right foods? Kenzen® Golden Gut Formula takes the guesswork away. It contains a patented, advanced pre- and probiotic blend to help replenish, rebalance and reinforce the gut. Some foods to avoid or limit in order to maintain gut health are:3
• Highly processed foods: Chips, fast food and packaged snacks are often low in fiber and may affect the balance of healthy gut bacteria.
• Sugary foods and drinks: Excess sugar may affect the growth of less beneficial gut microbes and may contribute to digestive discomfort.
• Fried and fatty foods: These can be hard to digest and may cause digestive discomfort.
• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can affect the digestive tract and the gut microbiome.
• Artificial anything: Some people experience digestive discomfort after consuming products containing ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, preservatives, chemical additives and food coloring.
The importance of staying hydrated throughout the day cannot be overstated. Your body needs water for normal digestive function. Water helps dissolve food, activates digestive enzymes, and transports nutrients to cells. Adequate water is also essential for normal bodily functions, including digestion, and may support a healthy gut microbiome.4
Sleep and diet are linked: if you don’t get enough restful sleep and eat a diet full of nutritional gaps, you may be at a greater risk of challenges related to gut health. Maintaining a healthy weight can be part of an overall approach to supporting the gut microbiome, because body weight and digestive health can be influenced by a variety of factors. In other words, staying active is another key to digestive health: how much you move and how much you eat can support the body’s natural state of balance.
Gut health is not rocket science. In a nutshell, get enough sleep, stay hydrated and eat primarily whole foods that are gifts from nature. Nikken is here to support your overall well-being with an entire range of products that support restful sleep (Kenko Sleep), water filtration (PiMag® water) and nutritional supplementation (Kenzen® nutrition).
1 https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Microbiome
2, 3 https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/expert-qa/your-digestive-system-5-ways-to-support-gut-health
4 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ways-to-improve-digestion