5 Foods to Strengthen Your Gut

Our guts are amazing at breaking down and assimilating the nutrients in our food and then eliminating what isn’t needed. And it does all this without us even having to think about it. The intestinal lining is also our first line of defense against harmful and foreign microbes that enter our body. In fact, about 80% of our immune system lies within our guts! So, if our intestines are sick and damaged, chances are, you are feeling sick and lousy too.

Diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, cancer, chronic fatigue, celiac and psoriasis are all reflections of a damaged and sick gut.

You may ask, “What damages the gut?” Well, in today’s world, we are constantly being exposed to various toxins and stressors. From the processed foods we eat, the air we breathe, the medications we take, having a negative mindset to the cleaning and personal care products we use each day. Overtime, these toxins accumulate in our bodies and are damaging to our gut lining and therefore our immune system.

But, here is the good news! There are many nourishing foods to counteract the damaging effects of these everyday toxins and stressors. To help you achieve better health, I have created a list of my Top 5 Favorite Gut Strengthening Foods to start eating today!

1. BONE BROTH

The minerals, collagen, and gelatin found in bone broth (chicken, beef, fish) do an incredible job at repairing damaged cells and reducing inflammation of the intestinal lining.

2. FERMENTED FOODS

Sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and kefir are high in beneficial probiotics (good bacteria) and antioxidants which make them excellent fuel for gut health.

3. BRASSICAS

Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels Sprouts and kale all contain sulforaphane which has been shown to be a potent gut healer and support the detoxification process of the liver.

4. GARLIC

Contains the prebiotic, inulin, that supports healthy gut flora. It is also a great anti-parasitic and antimicrobial food. Eat it raw or cooked in salads, stir-fry’s, soups, and dressings.

5. FLAXSEEDS

Flaxseeds are rich in healthy, anti-inflammatory Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and contains beneficial fiber that acts like an intestinal broom. Use fresh, ground-up flaxseeds on top of salads, yogurt & smoothies, and oatmeal or take 1 Tbs. whole flaxseeds soaked in a cup of water overnight for a great constipation concoction.