Today I’m sharing three ways to improve gut health.
 
Our bodies are designed to use the variety of nutrients found in whole foods to support our overall health and boost our immune defenses. Since autumn is the harvest season, now more than ever is the best time to load up on nutrient-dense and gut-friendly foods. 
Eat local and organic produce
Eating local and organic produce provides you with nutrient-dense food that hasn't been sprayed with harmful chemicals found in commercial pesticides and herbicides. Whole foods have microbes that are indigenous to your area, which supports gut health.

Purchasing organic produce supports local farms, which increases the practice of organic farming and decreases the environmental impact of food traveling across state lines, borders, and waterways. In short, it's good for you and the environment!
Relax while eating
Your mouth is where digestion begins, so chewing your food well is essential. Chewing your food into small particles enhances the absorption of the nutrients in the food and decreases the amount of work your digestive tract would otherwise have to do. Eating while you’re relaxed and not multitasking allows your digestive system to work efficiently, which for some can mean less bloating, indigestion, and gas.

Fun fact: Listening to Mozart while eating improves digestive functions! Chew slow while relaxing to Mozart, and know you are doing a lot of good for your gut health. 
Eat raw, lacto-fermented foods
Fermented foods are true superfoods. They contain live bacteria, also known as probiotics, and it's beneficial for gut health. Your gut may be low on good bacteria for several reasons (e.g., age, medications, antibiotics, poor diet). Eating foods like kimchi, lacto-fermented sauerkraut and vegetables, kombucha, yogurt, and kefir will supply you with a healthy dose of probiotics. 
Now that the weather is cooling down, it’s perfect for sipping on hot teas and soups to get additional nutrients to improve gut health. Next time you’re food shopping, always consider food as your fuel.

Be well and stay warm this season.

Love,

Dr. Monique
WeLoveU unites the global village and delivers love and hope to all people through volunteer services.