Your body is full of trillions of bacteria, viruses and fungi which are collectively known as the microbiome. While some bacteria are associated with disease, others are actually extremely important for your immune system, heart, weight and many other aspects of health. These bacteria and other microbes in your gut help you to digest food.
But did you know that the gut is not just for digestion? It actually holds 70% of our immune system. In addition to that, a harmonious gut microbiome supports immune function, fending off diseases and infections.
The gut is often dubbed the "second brain", influencing not only our physical health but also our emotional and mental well-being. Approximately 90% of serotonin, the neurotransmitter linked to mood and happiness, is crafted in the gut. Also, conditions like inflammation have been associated with anxiety and depression. This highlights the profound connection between gut health and our emotional state and underlines the importance of maintaining a balanced and flourishing gut microbiome.
The gut-brain connection is bidirectional, which means that our emotions can affect our gut, but our gut can also affect our emotions. Stress can alter our gut microbiome through the various stress hormones, an increase in inflammation and a reduction in digestion. That's why it's essential to find practices to release stress from you daily life, such as yoga, breath work or walking in nature.
In order to optimize your gut health, a well-rounded diet, rich in diverse nutrients, plays a pivotal role. Opt for vibrant fruits and vegetables, sources of vitamin D, which fortifies immune health, vitamin C, a supporter of immune system functions, and zinc, crucial for innate immunity.
Conversely, diets high in refined sugar and red meat, while low in fruits and vegetables, can disrupt the delicate balance of intestinal microorganisms, leading to chronic gut inflammation. To combat this, consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, miso and onions into your diet.
One of our favorite ways to add probiotic-rich foods to your diet is by eating tempeh. Due to the fermentation process, tempeh is a rich source of live probiotic cultures and active enzymes that can benefit gut health. Stop by at Recover or order the Peanut Tempeh Bowl to experience the benefits of this power food.
