The Forgotten Microbiome

The human gut is something science is just starting to understand. It's only in the last couple decades that more attention has been paid to this "forgotten organ". We now know that the gut is home to billions and billions of microorganisms. These are bacteria, parasites, fungi, and other living organisms that depend on us as the host. Some of these microorganisms are helpful to us and some not so much. Maintaining a healthy balance in our gut is important to our overall health and wellbeing and can influence our body's response to sickness and disease. As Dr. Mercola notes in his article this week, the human microbiome plays a role in numerous bodily functions including immunity. Unfortunately, studies indicate a reduction in healthy gut bacteria in humans from past generations. This is especially significant in developed countries that have a heavy dietary reliance on processed foods, increased sugar consumption, and antibiotics. In areas that maintain ancestral diets with little or no processed foods or antibiotics, this is not the case. They have some of the healthiest microbiomes in the world.

Diet plays a critical role in our gut health. Some foods act as prebiotics in our gut and assist the growth and health of beneficial bacteria. Healthy fats like coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil, and 100% grass-fed animal fats with Omega-3's and CLA also play an important role in gut health. Other foods may serve as probiotics. These foods contain beneficial bacteria that helps us replenish lost bacteria. There are a variety of these foods and they work together with prebiotics to create a healthy environment in the gut. Many people are finding joy in making their own fermented foods at home. Study up on the process to make sure you're doing it safely and dive in. Yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut are fairly easy "do-it-yourself" superfoods with beneficial bacteria you can make right at home with common kitchen tools. There is no need for fancy equipment to get started with fermenting foods. All it takes is a little patience and anyone can make delicious and nutritious fermented food. If you have histamine intolerance, read this article from Kelley Herring first. It will help identify some issues to consider. 

All the Best,  Team USWM