A Nutritionist's Top Tips for Nurturing Your Gut Microbiome

Let's delve deep into the world of gut health, exploring ways to nurture your gut microbiome and pave the way to a healthier, happier you. A healthy gut is essential for overall health. And if you are struggling with any gut issues, by now you probably understand that the food you eat can severely affect how you feel on a daily basis. Let's dive into my top nutritional strategies that can make a real difference to a thriving gut and a healthier body!

GREEN VEGGIES

Everyone has heard that you need to eat your greens, but this is because green veggies are loaded with antioxidants and nutrients. They are also rich in fibre, which adds bulk to your stool, making it easier to pass through the digestive tract. This helps prevent constipation and promotes regular bowel movements, keeping your gut in top-notch shape. But what if you struggle to incorporate them into your daily meals? That's where Naked Harvest's Gorgeous Greens comes to the rescue, offering one serving of veggies per serve (without the grassy greens taste).

Additionally, certain green vegetables, like asparagus and leek, contain prebiotics – substances that serve as food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut, which helps them thrive and therefore promotes a balanced gut microbiome. A happy, diverse community of gut bacteria is associated with improved digestion and improved overall wellbeing.

LIMIT ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Ah, the topic of alcohol... while it's okay to enjoy your favourite beverage in moderation, excessive alcohol consumption can disrupt the delicate balance of your gut microbiome. In fact, some studies show that alcohol can cause gut dysbiosis and gut inflammation, as well as damages the liver. If you want to look after your gut or have a gut that’s in distress, it’s best to skip the alcohol. For more information on how to limit your alcohol consumption, be sure to check out my blog on all things sober curiosity!

TOXINS

Unfortunately, conventional fruit and vegetables are sprayed with pesticides that are known to disrupt the gut microbiome. Buy organic or “spray-free” produce if possible, otherwise you can easily wash your produce to reduce pesticide residue by soaking the produce in baking soda for 15 minutes then rinse, dry and store. 

STAY HYDRATED

Are you giving your body the hydration it deserves? Consuming 2-3 litres of water daily is more than just a hydration tip; it's a crucial element in maintaining a healthy gut. Adequate water intake keeps your digestive system in check and ensures those bowels keep moving smoothly! For added support, consider incorporating Naked Harvest's BCAAs to help replenish electrolytes and enhance your hydration.

SLOW COOKED MEATS

Did you know slow cooked meats can be easier to digest and helps the nutrients to become more bioavailable? This means there is less work for your gut to do, and is especially important if your gut is already compromised, or you are having any gut symptoms. Even more so, if you slow cook meat on the bone, this helps to release glycine and other amino acids which can help to repair and heal the gut. 

FERMENTED FOODS

Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which is the good bacteria necessary for a healthy microbiome and healthy digestion. You can easily add probiotics to your diet by including natural or greek yoghurt, tempeh, tofu, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and miso. Pro tip: incorporate a variety of different fermented foods into your diet to introduce diverse strains of beneficial bacteria to your gut.

Start incorporating these tips into your daily routine and you will be well on your way to a healthier gut, which equals a healthier you!