Scientists are making gains in a deeper understanding of the importance of bacteria in the digestive system and the role it plays in our health. While many are reaching for yogurt and taking Lactobacillus acidophilus capsules to maintain healthy gut flora, there's actually more to gut health than just probiotics. There's also prebiotics.
Prebiotics are defined as "a nondigestible food ingredient that promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the intestines." These foods help create an environment for gut-dwelling bacteria to more easily flourish. This in turn helps the body maintain the immune system, reduce hypertension, fight colorectal cancer, even lose weight.
Our favorite prebiotic foods include:
- raw garlic
- raw and cooked onions
- kimchi
- raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- raw bananas
- raw dandelion greens
- raw asparagus
- raw leeks
This is by no means a comprehensive list but adding these and other delicious prebiotics to your shopping list could give your gut microbiome a boost. Have you incorporated prebiotics into your diet?