We often think of summer as the time to let loose and have some fun. But if you get sick, that puts a damper on your vacation plans. Taking care of yourself by nourishing your good bacteria in your digestive system with gut-friendly foods can help you stay healthier all summer long.
Here are some foods and drinks to keep your gut happy, and keep you happy too!
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Add a little apple cider vinegar to your morning water and you’ll be establishing a healthy habit. Doing this gets your body to create hydrochloric acid which helps you digest fats, carbs, and proteins. If you want to keep looking fab in that swimsuit, it will aid in weight loss so drink up!
2. Yogurt
Whether you choose dairy or dairy-free varieties, yogurt can give you all the good gut bacteria you need. Start your day off with it!
3. Kombucha
Want a natural buzz and more probiotics? Drink some kombucha. It has a taste that is a little unusual, but you’ll get used to it.
4. Sauerkraut
Choose the refrigerated kind at your supermarket and leave it cold. Top it on your summer hotdogs and you’ll be adding healthful probiotics to your diet!
5. Mangos
Want something sweet? Mangos are great for help your good bacteria flourish. Make smoothies out of it or just enjoy it sliced up fresh for a refreshing summer treat!
6. Wild-Caught Salmon
For a fantastic summery dinner, choose wild-caught salmon. It has omega-3 fatty acids which reduce inflammation and help keep your gut calm and healthy.
7. Garlic
This prebiotic is great for keeping your gut flora flourishing. If you eat it raw, it works best, though it certainly takes time to get used to the zing of garlic this way. Try it in lettuce wraps so it’s less bitingly pungent.
8. Bone Broth
This liquid gold is great for boosting collagen production in your body and for healing your gut lining. Instead of making soups using regular broth, choose bone broth. You can also make your own from the bones of your leftover chicken and beef, though be sure you’re choosing organic for the best benefits!
9. High-Fiber Foods
Any food that’s high in fiber is good for your gut. Choose beans, apples, artichokes, raspberries or even almonds. These help keep things moving through your gut and digestive system to improve your overall health.
10. Kimchi
And finally, take a page from Korean cuisine. This spicy fermented cabbage is eaten in Korea with every meal. It’s delicious on top of rice, in lettuce wraps, or simply on its own. As a wonderful source of probiotics, it can help you with leaky gut syndrome, inflammation, and much more.