Nutrition is complex, and the trillions of microbes living in your gut can be influenced by a whole host of external factors. Take a look at our guest post by Lisa from The Gut Stuff, as she shares her expertise on how we can tweak factors and lifestyle changes within our control to make positive changes and support our immune system.
We are starting to understand more about the importance of our immune system and it’s link with the gut – a staggering 70% of your immune system is found in your gut. Research shows that what goes on in your gut can impair or support your immune system and you have the power to look after both, not just for now, but for the future.
The immune system is complex and highly responsive to our external environment, from stress to what you eat. . What you may not know is that both the gut and the immune system have co-evolved and work alongside each other; so, it makes sense that a healthy gut can support a healthy immune system.
When ‘gut health’ is talked about, what is really being discussed is the physiological workings of your gut (e.g. motility) and the fascinating world of your gut microbiome, which is an entire ecosystem of microorganisms and their genetic material, such as bacteria, yeast and fungi, which live in, around and on us – the majority taking up residence in you large intestine. Think of your microbiome as a tropical jungle, home to lots of different species, each play their part in immunity and health A diverse gut microbiome is associated with better health – so . Like any ecosystem, your gut microbiome will occasionally find itself completely out of balance, and this is where you might experience digestive symptoms which can impair your immune system.
We know diet and lifestyle changes can support a healthier gut – these things aren’t found in a “magic elixir” or pill, they are simple, everyday swaps within everyone’s grasp.
1. Eat a Diet Rich in Plants
Just like us humans, different bacteria enjoy and thrive on different foods. Research shows we should be aiming for 30 different plant-based foods a week to support a diverse microbiome – so start writing a list now and see how many you achieve! Plant-based ingredients include non-perishable goods such as nuts, seeds, beans and pulses – so hopefully this takes off some of the pressure! Nuts and seeds are amazing sprinkled over smoothies, salads and added to stir-fries, which are a great way to make sure you’re using everything that you have stocked in the house! Start changing your mindset to addition rather than restriction!
2. Limit processed foods
It might sound obvious, a lot of highly processed foods tend to include additives and emulsifiers which can wreak havoc on your garden of microbes. Reducing your intake of processed foods (and drinks!) can be an easy win when it comes to looking after your microbes. Think about simple swaps such as using real cheddar over sliced sandwich cheese or a fizzy kombucha instead of a diet fizzy pop.
3. Get More Fibre!
Fibre is the unsung hero of nutrition and 9/10 of us aren’t getting enough of it. It is recommended that we consume around 30g of fibre per day – so you may be relieved to know that it’s not all prune juice and cereals at the source! To put 30g into context, one medium apple is around 2.1g – so it is a high number to hit! There are lots of different types of fibre (think of different varieties feeding different microbes) but luckily nature has packaged them up into plenty of plant-based foods – again, a variety of different fibres is key! Think whole grains, fruit, vegetables, nuts and pulses. Fibre plays an important role in gut health, it produces food for your bacteria to ferment, helps bulk out your stools making them softer and keeps things moving. And more seriously, a diet high in fibre can reduce the risk of developing high cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, and bowel cancer. So, it has so many benefits beyond helping you “go”.
4. Start a Diary
This is NOT a food diary for calorie counting but to monitor what you’re eating, how you are feeling (mentally and physically), your poos (yes, really!!) and how much you are moving to help you “tune in” to your body and to spot patterns. When was the last time you asked yourself ‘how am I feeling today’? – understanding and listening to your body is a big part of understanding your gut and often we don’t listen to it until there’s something wrong or you’re not getting along. You’ll be surprised at how much you notice.
5. Where you can – De-Stress!
We know we are in stressful times, but stress, anxiety and depression can have a direct effect on your microbiome and how well your gut works and vice versa! Research shows that those suffering from anxiety and/or depression have a less diverse range of gut bacteria than those without. The current situation likely has us in “fight or flight mode”, taking three deep breaths can switch your body into “rest and digest” mode to tell your body it’s time to relax.
De-stressing doesn’t have to be long baths and downward dogs, find what relaxes you!
If you're interested in learning more about your gut or looking for products designed specifically to help you track meals and spot patterns, The Gut Stuff sell a range of specially designed gut diaries and planning kits.
Designed to help you keep in tune with your body and understand your gut better, The Gut Stuff are offering Planet Organic customers an exclusive 15% off their range of planners and diary kits with code PLANETGUT.
Check out The Gut Stuff's website for further information.
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