It’s not uncommon for people to identify with their gut as a “problem area” when it comes to losing fat. It’s incredibly difficult to target just one area of the body for weight loss, and the belly area is traditionally known as one of the most stubborn. What many find is that focusing on gut health is a more efficient approach. Eating foods full of healthy bacteria keeps the gut healthier and, in turn, promotes healthy weight loss.
It’s important to eat foods that are full of nutrients while at the same time capable of eliminating toxins. Not doing so results in a build-up of organisms that throws your entire flora out of whack. The end result usually includes symptoms like skin irritation (think acne), sleep disorders, bloating, and inflammation. Some people even find themselves struggling with mental health issues.
So what foods can you eat to improve your gut health while positively impacting your waist-line? Check these out:
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has a great reputation as a “jack-of-all-trades.” It’s a great source of hydrochloric acid, which is key in helping the body to digest carbs and fats. It’s also been used to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel disorders, to reduce acid reflux, and to ease inflammation.
2. Mangos
Mangoes may seem like a tropical treat, but they come with a myriad of benefits. A study in the Journal of Nutrition showed eating mango daily may help control blood sugar, reduce body fat, and generally improve gut health by infusing the body with a myriad of nutrients.
3. Yogurt
Yogurt is well-known for its gut-healthy benefits, mostly created thanks to the fermentation process. Yogurts made from grass-fed, full-fat dairy products tend to be best, but others can provide the probiotic benefits you’re looking for as well. Choose varieties that are low in sugar to boost yogurt’s gut-healing benefits.
4. High Fiber Foods
Fiber is an incredibly important part of a healthy diet because of its ability to absorb toxins as it works through your system. Beans, almonds, raspberries, lentils, peas and apples are just a few examples of high-fiber foods you can use to control your blood sugar, ward off inflammation, and fight weight gain.
5. Onions
Believe it or not, onions have the prebiotic properties responsible for keeping the healthy organisms in your gut happy. Adding prebiotic foods is very helpful, but even more effective when combined with other nutrient-rich foods.
6. Chocolate
Chocolate tops the list of favorites and – believe it or not – can have both prebiotic and probiotic properties. Of course, you’ll want to avoid high-sugar varieties and opt for raw, dark chocolates for optimal benefits. There are also special prebiotic bars available, like Sakara Life’s Probiotic Chocolate bars.
There are dozens of foods you can eat to protect and heal your gut. Just remember – healing your gut takes time. Incorporate more healthy foods slowly and after a while you’ll notice great improvements not only to your inflammation levels and general state of health, but to your waist-line as well.
