What is the best diet for a healthy gut?
Trillions of tiny microorganisms live in our guts. These bacteria play an important role in health. A plant-based eating pattern can improve health and prevent disease by influencing the microbiota.
There are thousands of species of gut microbes that live in the gut, some healthy and some unhealthy. The healthy ones help with digestion and absorption of nutrients, synthesize certain vitamins and amino acids, and improve immune function. They also keep the pathogens in check by crowding them out of secreting substances that reduce their numbers. Since dietary fiber is not digested in the small intestines, when it makes its way to the large intestines, the healthy bacteria breaks it down, releasing short chain fatty acids. These fatty acids improve the strength of the mucosal lining of the intestine that eases essential mineral absorption, improves fat metabolism for weight control, and reduces type 2 diabetes risk. Research show that these fatty acids reduce inflammation, a common cause for many chronic diseases.
Research suggest that people with a higher number of genes in their bacteria consume more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Human studies associate a higher bacterial gene count with lower body weight, a lower risk of diabetes, less inflamation, and a healthier immune system when compared to those with lower bacterial gene counts who consume more fat and meat. Those individuals increase their risk for obesity, insulin resistance, and high cholesterol. High-fat, high-meat diets promote certain groups of bacteria the increases inflammation in the body. These higher undesirable bacterial profiles lead to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune diseases when compared to bacteria provides in healthy people. Bacteria in the gut first metabolize choline, from meat eggs and dairy, into trimethylamine, which travels to the liver and is further metabolized into a chemical abbreviated TMAO. This increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and may trigger non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Focus on Fiber – Build meals around healthful plant-based foods: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes improve the health of the microbiota. These high-fiber foods feed the healthy bacteria that produce short chain fatty acids and other metabolites that improve immune function and nutritional status, reduce inflammation and chronic disease, and even regulate mood behavior. Aim to consume at least 40 grams of fiber each day. Some experts recommend up to 50-55 grams per day. Historic populations consumed nearly three to four times as much fiber as we do today. The average American currently consume 16 grams of fiber. Adding 14 grams of fiber a day can reduce calorie intake by 10 percent.
Prebiotics – Prebiotics are dietary fiber that enhance the growth of healthy bacteria and provide health benefits to the human host. Try to consume at least 5-8 grams of plant-based prebiotics each day. This is easy to accomplish with two cups of leafy greens or a half-cup serving of beans. Good sources include Jerusalem artichokes, chicory root, raw dandelion greens, leeks, onions, garlic, asparagus, whole wheat, spinach, beans, bananas, oats, and soybeans.
Probiotics – Probiotics are live bacteria or yeasts found in fermented foods or supplements that, when consumed, take residence in the gut and improve health. Scientists continue to research the mechanisms behind the benefits of probiotics. Consult your health care provider to determine which probiotic is good for you, but adding small amounts of fermented foods to your diet presents may help the growth and proliferation of healthy bacteria. Dietary sources include sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, soy sauce, and water kefir.
Foods to Avoid – Red meat, high-fat dairy products, fried foods, food additives and advanced glycation end (AGEs) products all reduce the growth of health bacteria and enhance the growth of undesirable species linked to chronic disease. AGEs include proteins and fats exposed to high heat, such as sausage links, and sugar molecules found in candy bars.
Fat – Limit fat intake, especially if you have or are at risk for type 2 diabetes. Instead, opt for healthful sources, including an ounce of nuts or seeds or a small amount of avocado.
Antibiotic Use – Some scientists believe that overuse of antibiotics resulted in a loss of healthy bacteria and genetic diversity of the human microbiome. Environmental exposure to antibiotics also plays a role, as the FDA estimates that 80 percent of antibiotics are used in animal agriculture. The best way to keep your gut healthy is to avoid excessive antibiotic use. There are times when it is necessary, but should be discussed with a health care provider. Avoiding animal products also reduces exposure to antimicrobial agents.
Other Lifestyle Factors – Evidence suggests that exercising, getting enough sleep, and avoiding or managing stress will also have a positive impact on the health of the microbiota.
By paying attention to these simple principles, we can all enjoy the benefits of a healthy gut.
If you would like a printable version of the PCRM article this post is based on (and includes all the journal references), just download it HERE– Healthy Gut Prebiotics and Probiotics
References:
https://www.pcrm.org/
