WANT TO BOOST YOUR ENERGY? Start Looking After Your Gut.
When you hit that afternoon slump and feel tired and sluggish gut health might not be the first thing that you think about. But it really should be!
In this quick summary we are going to look at why gut health is so important for our energy levels and I am going to share my top 4 tips for ultimate gut health.
SO WHY IS GUT HEALTH IMPORTANT FOR OUR ENERGY LEVELS.
Your gut is where your body digests and absorbs nutrients. giving you energy to perform
daily bodily functions.
Our body is constantly creating energy within our cells.
The mitochondria are the part of the cell that is responsible for energy production, so it’s essential they are able to function properly.
This is where nutrients are so important, as the rate at which energy is produced is nutrient-dependent.
If our gut health is compromised, this means we won’t be able to break down our food and absorb nutrients for cellular energy production, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish.
Hello afternoon dip!
SO NOW WE KNOW WHY IT’S IMPORTANT. HERE ARE 4 OF MY FAVOURITE WAYS TO LOOK AFTER YOUR GUT:
1- Eat 30 plants a week
Studies have demonstrated that people who eat at least 30 different plant-based foods a week had more diverse gut microbes.
30 might sound like a lot but this includes veg, fruits, beans, pulses and seeds. You can increase this gradually. Start adding a few more plants to your diet each week. Think mixed salad, or mixed beans/mixed seeds to sneak some more in!
2- Eat Probiotic Foods
Most fermented foods contribute bacteria that have a potential probiotic effect. This means that these bacteria may help restore the balance of bacteria in your gut, support digestive health and alleviate digestive issues.
My favourites are Kefir and Kombucha. Check out my earlier reel for my Kefir recipe.
3- Eat Prebiotic Foods
Prebiotics promote the growth of several types of beneficial bacteria, including Bifidobacteria. Some studies suggest that prebiotics could also reduce risk factors for certain health conditions by decreasing levels of insulin, triglycerides, and cholesterol.
Some of my favourite Prebiotic foods are onions, garlic, bananas and asparagus. But there are loads out there so do a little google for your favs!
4- Eat foods that are high in polyphenols
Polyphenols are plant compounds that have a ton of health benefits. From reductions in blood pressure, inflammation, cholesterol levels, and oxidative stress.
Most polyphenols make their way to the colon, where they are digested by gut bacteria.
Some of my fav polyphenol-rich foods are dark chocolate, green tea and blueberries!
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References
https://bepure.co.nz/blog/the-connection-between-our-gut-health-and-energy-levels/