I’ve been coming across more articles and podcasts on the benefits of including fiber in our diets and that most of us aren’t getting enough. While most people focus on a high-protein or low-fat diet, for health and weight-loss or weight stabilization, studies are showing that we should be focusing on fiber.

A fiber-rich diet feeds and stimulates the good bacteria(macrobiota) in your gut. An unhealthy gut can lead to obesity, asthma, allergies, auto-immune disorders, diabetes and more.

So what should you be eating to ensure a healthy gut? More fiber. That’s right, you need more fiber. A plant-based diet is a good way to get your microbiota back to a healthy state.

• Here are some foods that keep our macrobiota healthy and stimulated:Pulses(beans and lentils)
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Whole grains

Some vegetables are better than others because of their fermentable prebiotic benefits and they include:

• Artichokes
• Asparagus
• Grains(Barley, Rye, Wheat)
• Plantains
• Alliums(Broccoli, Cabbage, Brussels Sprouts)
• Beans(Lentils, chickpeas, red beans)
• Soy products
• Jicama

If you don’t consume these foods on a regular basis, you might have to ease into it to avoid bloating, flatulence, and possibly irritable-bowel like symptoms.

Chances are if you are already vegetarian,, vegan or eating a plant-based diet, you are getting the right amount of fiber assuming your diet also consists of whole food and not processed foods.

Processed foods are bad for your gut because they wear down the healthy lining and can lead to “leaky gut” and other issues

So, if you are always watching your weight, if you are health conscientious, and or if you just want to feel better, start adding more fiber to your diet by easing off of animal and processed foods and incorporating more fresh, plant-based foods to your meals. Your gut will be happy, and so will you.

Happy, healthy eating.

Sources

Washington Post: How to Feed a Happy Healthy Gut
https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/how-to-feed-a-happy-healthy-gut/2016/05/26/4d33a0be-20ef-11e6-8690-f14ca9de2972_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.192187140f1b

Rich Roll Pod Cast – Ronda Patrick
LONGEVITY, EPIGENETICS, MICROBIOME HEALTH & THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN EATING FOR LONG-TERM WELLNESS VERSUS PERFORMANCE
http://www.richroll.com/podcast/rhonda-patrick/