Hippocrates said, “All disease begins in the gut.” And, he could not have been more correct!
Conversations about the gut microbiome have been the talk of the town for quite some time now. Healthy, balanced gut flora is key to maintaining health and healing chronic conditions such as autoimmune disease, IBS, and skin issues.
The state of your gut also greatly affects your immune system. Did you know the wall of the gut houses 70 percent of the cells that make up the entire immune system? Crazy, right? Keeping your gut in tip-top shape is key to keeping your entire body healthy and happy.
WHERE IT ALL BEGINS
It has been discovered that babies are born with a sterile digestive system. When they are in the womb they don’t need gut bacteria as all of their nutrition comes directly from mom. Upon entering the world their digestive system begins to colonize bacteria based on their mother’s existing bacteria. Hence why the mother’s state of health is so critical to baby.
Through the birthing process and breastmilk, babies develop their balance of gut bacteria. Babies that are born via c-section or who are bottle-fed can still gain a healthy balance of bacteria through supplementing with probiotics and the introduction of probiotic and prebiotic-rich foods as they grow.
PROBIOTICS VS. PREBIOTICS. SO, WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Probiotics are living microorganisms and when taken internally result in health benefits.
Prebiotics are made up of fiber the body cannot digest and act as food for probiotics.
Both Probiotics and Prebiotics are needed for a balance of the gut microbiome. Think of it this way. You can consume all the probiotics you want but they will die off if you don’t feed them. Just as you need food to survive they do too.
The market is saturated with probiotic and prebiotic supplements. While I think supplements have their place in contributing to overall health and wellness, my recommendation to clients is to always focus on real, whole foods first.
It’s easier than you think to sneak probiotic and prebiotic-rich foods into your current diet. Here are ten foods you can start adding to your diet today to achieve better gut health.
Article continued HERE on The Institute of Transformational Nutrition Blog.
In Love, Health + Gratitude,
Katie