If you’re hoping to boost your overall wellness, including your digestive health, you may want to tend to your gut microbiome — or all of the microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, in your intestinal tract.
While the term might sound complex, leading a healthy lifestyle and eating in ways that support gut microbiome health may be more feasible than you think.
Dr. Sreelatha Reddy and the team at Houston Gastrointestinal & Liver Clinic, P.A. in Sugar Land, Texas, diagnose and treat gastrointestinal conditions to support your health and well-being. Dr. Reddy can recommend lifestyle changes to enhance your gut microbiome.
Here’s a closer look at gut microbiomes, including why a strong one may be crucial for your health.
Gut microbiome basics
The human body contains trillions of microorganisms. That number includes up to 1,000 species of bacteria in your gut. And while many of those bacteria play important roles in your health, others may fuel disease.
When you were born — and possibly before then, in the womb — your gut microbiome started diversifying. That varied blend of species is a positive thing, linked with good health. And the foods you eat affect that diversity.
How your gut microbiome impacts your health
Healthy bacteria in your gut microbiome can enhance your health in numerous ways. They help your body digest fiber, for example, which is important for digestive function.
When you consume the recommended 25-30 grams per day , you’re less prone to issues like constipation and bleeding hemorrhoids.
Processing enough fiber may also help you maintain a healthy weight, given that fiber promotes appetite control. Fiber is also linked with positive heart health, a reduced risk of certain types of cancer, and an easier time managing diabetes.
Bacteria in your microbiome may also help keep your immune system functioning well. By controlling how your immune system works, you may be better able to fight off infections.
How to improve your gut microbiome
Some factors involved with your gut microbiome are beyond your control — things like genetics and environmental factors — but you can alter your dietary lifestyle to improve what it contains.
Steps that may help include:
- Eating a variety of foods, especially fiber-rich items like beans, lentils, and fruits
- Consuming fermented foods, such as yogurt and kefir
- Limiting the artificial sweetener aspartame
- Eating prebiotic-rich foods, like apples, artichokes, bananas, and oats
- Choosing whole over refined grains
- Shifting to a plant-based diet
If you have a chronic condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome, Dr. Reddy may recommend particular supplements to help meet your needs.
To learn more about your gut microbiome or to get the care you need, call Houston Gastrointestinal & Liver Clinic, P.A. or request an appointment today.
