When we talk about a microbiome, we are talking about the gut and its important role in overall health. The gut is home to many microbes and bacteria, both good and bad. What we choose to eat determines the amount and type of bacteria residing in our large and small intestines.
Eating foods containing prebiotics and probiotics promotes a favorable environment for a healthy microbiome. Prebiotics are complex carbohydrates, like fiber in fruits, beans, and whole grains. They act as fertilizer for the good bacteria to multiply in the gut. This fiber is broken down by the good bacteria in your gut through fermentation. This fermentation process limits the number of bad bacteria and supports a healthy gut.
Probiotics are the good bacteria in your gut and are dependent on prebiotics as their main food source. Common probiotic foods are yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, and other fermented foods. Other ways to improve your gut microbiome are to eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, add fiber foods to your diet, reduce stress, and maintain a regular eating schedule.
ne of the biggest buzzwords in current media refers to the smallest subject: the human gut microbiome. This microbiome is a collection of microorganisms living in the human intestinal tract; aka the “good gut bugs.” These good gut bugs help our gut produce compounds needed for digestion and absorption of other nutrients. They also provide protection against harmful “bugs” and support our immune system. These good gut bugs have also been shown to promote brain health.