9 Amazing Foods That Boost Your Gut Health!

A healthy gut is what keeps our body up and running the healthy way, however, it is only recently that people have started thinking about their gut health consciously. It is a commonly known fact that our body is a complex structure, where everything is connected to each other and that is where a healthy gut fits in, as it is closely related with a number of functions performed by our body. An unbalanced gut health is closely related to problems such as autoimmune diseases, hormonal imbalance, autism, etc. Also, a healthy gut supports good gastrointestinal function. 

So, it makes most of us wonder about the ways that can help maintain our gut health. Yes! There are a number of good bacteria that can help us in improving the health of our gut, which in turn will boost our digestion. And, if we make a conscious choice to eat foods that promote it, chances of an anti-inflammatory response may decline. 

1. Prebiotic power food: Prebiotic food contains ingredients like fiber that the intestine bacteria feast upon, creating byproducts that are fermented and hence, beneficial for the health. The most powerful prebiotic nourishments are almonds, asparagus, bananas, cereal, garlic, plant greens (particularly dandelion), kiwi, mushrooms, oats and onions.
2. Probiotic power food: Rather than being cooked or eaten crisp, probiotic-rich food items are moderately cooked in such a way that the microbes get a chance to ferment naturally. These food items provide fiber to our gut bacteria. Some of them include curd, kimchi, carrots, green beans, beetroot, pickles and Greek olives, fermented soybeans and cultured dairy items.
3. Whole oranges: Oranges are a blessing for gut health as they not only supply your gut with the desired amount of fiber but also keeps it well hydrated along with improved nutrient absorption. However, we should not consume too much of citrus fruits as excessive consumption can cause more harm than good to our gut health.
4. Sourdough bread: This somewhat rough and chewy bread is made with a lactic corrosive starter that contains parts of lactobacillus, a type of microscopic organisms that includes good bacteria. And, when it comes to choosing the bread, sourdough is one amongst the healthiest choices available.
5. Lentils: Lentils contain solvent fiber and are additionally a source of prebiotics that feeds our current valuable gut bacteria.
6. Dark chocolate: The microorganisms inside our GI tract can productively ferment chocolate. These byproducts have been found to be beneficial, both for the well-being of the gut as well as for a sound heart. Search for dark chocolate with no less than 70% cocoa content and enjoy the bittersweet flavor. 
7. Pickles: Fermenting a cucumber into a pickle increases the benefits, loading the crunchy veggie with probiotics. However, not all pickles offer good bacteria, therefore, it is important to go for those that are made with saline solution i.e salt and water as opposed to vinegar.
8. Sauerkraut: Another source of nourishment is called sauerkraut. It is also known as fermented cabbage and acts as a way to provide probiotic bacteria to the GI tract. Make sure to search for newly made sauerkraut, it can be easily found in the refrigerated section.
9. Butter: Butter is a source of butyrate in our diets that occurs naturally. Dishes that contain butyrate have the potential to enhance the intestinal boundary function and improve general gut health. Specifically, the butter made from the milk of grass-fed cows. 

Now, that it is clear, we must make an effort to include these foods in our daily diet and improve our gut health. In case of further query please do consult an expert & get answers to questions!