Our large intestine is packed with trillions of microbes that have a say in our metabolism, hunger levels, and digestion. Even though we don’t give them much credit, they also indirectly affect our weight.
Of course, having a diverse range of gut microbes is very beneficial to our health, and when that balance is disrupted, it may lower the presence of beneficial bacteria and reduce their diversity. Naturally, this impacts our bodies by slowing down our metabolism and making us gain weight.
So, does that mean there are specific gut microbes that regulate our weight?
The Microbes That Eat The Weight
Scientists have discovered that there are two types of microbes that help with weight loss as they prevent weight gain and are often found in slim individuals. The American Gut Project found that incorporating as many colorful plant foods as possible in your diet helps ensure you maintain a balanced, healthy gut, and as such, have both of the microbes that help with weight loss in your system.
Colorful Foods That Promote Gut Health
We’ve grouped some plant foods according to their color to help you make sure you’re getting enough of each! Try going for 30g of fiber from each color to diversify your microbes.
• Yellow:
bananas, lemon, and ginger
• Orange:
oranges, carrots, and turmeric
• Green:
dark leafy greens, green tea, olives, apples, and cabbage
• Red:
onions, red cabbage, tomatoes, apples, and cherries
• Blue:
blueberries, concord grapes and elderberries
• Purple:
blackberries, eggplants and purple sweet potatoes
The Key Takeaway
Your gut microbes rely on your genetic disposition. Therefore, trying to override it is difficult. But, studies have shown that your lifestyle affects and has a great impact on your gut health. So, get off that couch, do more physical activities, and incorporate more plant foods into your diet as these are essential not only for your gut but your overall health as well!
More Things You Can Do To Promote Good Gut Health
Aside from working out and incorporating the above mentioned foods into your diet, here are some things you can do to improve your gut health.
1. Lower Your Stress Levels
While this may be easier said than done, lowering stress levels is perfectly doable. Some ways to do this include meditating, taking a walk outside, looking at greenery, and spending more time with friends and family members!
2. Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is one of the most essential activities for the human body, and aside from the numerous complications caused by not getting enough sleep, bad gut health is one of them. You should always try to get 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night to make sure you’re keeping your health in tip-top shape.
3. Stay Hydrated
Water offers us plenty of benefits, including good gut health! In fact, water helps keep the good gut bacteria well-balanced and even has a beneficial effect on the mucosal lining of your intestines!