Foods NOT to Avoid for a Happy Gut This Season

We’re moving into the Christmas season and times are getting b.u.s.y! Right?

So let's keep up with how to keep your gut healthy and happy for the season, even if you've got some stressful situations that are messing with your best efforts.

​Hopefully, you’ve been taking my advice so far and working on:
1.      Chewing more,
2.      Taking enzymes with your meals and
3.     Relaxing more and practicing gratitude at meal time.

These practices GREATLY improve digestion even when stressed or busy, so good for you!

What next?
  
Now we focus on FOODS TO EAT - and NOT what to avoid - as that is just a minefield for stress, especially during the holiday season. So, let’s not go there today!

Here are two powerful foods to focus on to build and maintain a healthy gut through crisis:

Sauerkraut! Here’s why:

• It is an excellent source of good bacteria and prebiotic fibre.   
• Phytochemicals in cabbage are more bioavailable and protect against carcinogens.
• Enzymes found in sauerkraut help strengthen digestion and heal ulcers.

• Rich in L-glutamine which supports healing of the intestinal lining, and is also a good source of vitamin C, which is found in every cell of the body.
• It’s also affordable and easy to make, and cabbage is available year round!

Start with a small amount and work up to 1/4-1/2 cup a day. Try this recipe as a delicious way to add kraut to your smoothie! (Yes, it actually tastes great!)

Milk Kefir! Here’s why:

• Contains over 32 strains of good bacteria and yeast, more than in a probiotic supplement.
• Helps convert the tryptophan in milk to serotonin -  makes you happier.
• ​When made with dairy, contains GOS, an prebiotic for the brain and nervous system.

• ​Inhibits candida albicans, regulates inflammation, helps with acne and eczema, lowers triglycerides and cholesterol, stabilizes blood sugar, is antimicrobial, supports the immune system and has anti-tumour properties.
• Can be made with coconut milk and still retain most of the benefits!

Start with a small amount and work up to 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day. Try this recipe as a delicious way substitute for dessert coffee!

Look, its not just me, many studies show that rebalancing our gut microbiome leads to positive changes in our brain chemistry. (Like in this study)

That affects how you think and feel (ie. calmer) and that affects how well you digest.

Do you see how it all connects?

The steps I am sharing with you are simple, yet effective, because they engage the parasympathetic nervous system (ie. you're relaxed) so that digestion is fully activated, and they provide the necessary "team support" (aka. prebiotics and probiotics).

Stay tuned for the final step I took to keep my gut happy during crisis. It’s another easy one, but one you cannot afford to miss.

With love for your gut,
Katherine

DO YOU ALREADY EAT sauerkraut and kefir? What are your favorite recipes? Feel free to comment below or come join us in the Fermented Foodies Culture Club where we share live cultures , recipes and knowledge.

Get support and tips to heal and maintain good gut health in our private It Takes Guts Community!