A healthy gut is essential for overall health and well-being, establishing proper digestion, metabolism and immunity. Gut health isn’t just about keeping stomach issues at bay. While good gut health can reduce gastrointestinal issues, it is also key in supporting and regulating body functions and serves as a communication center and disease fighter.

Your gut aids in the digestion of the foods you eat, absorbing nutrients that are used to fuel and maintain your body. So if your gut is imbalanced and your immune system isn’t working properly, it will be more challenging to stay healthy. Your gut is also where your body gets rid of metabolic waste and toxins. So, if you have an unhealthy gut, your body will struggle to rid itself of those toxins. A healthy gut means a gastrointestinal tract that has a balanced and diverse microbiome (the collection of microorganisms, mostly bacteria, that live in our bodies). The best way to achieve that balance is to eat a diverse diet, especially foods that have prebiotics and probiotics.

Probiotics, the good bacteria in your gut, are found at high levels in fermented foods such as Greek yogurt with live cultures, cottage cheese, tempeh, kombucha and sauerkraut. Prebiotics feed those probiotics. Prebiotics are found in many high fiber foods such as bananas, artichokes, whole grains, and lentils.

Consuming a diverse diet rich in plant-based foods, limiting processed foods, and drinking plenty of water can improve your gut health.

photo credit: bigstockphoto.com/guniita