If you frequently feel tired, struggle with brain fog, or experience bloating after meals, then you may have an unhealthy gut. Your gut health impacts your whole body physically and mentally, and by eating the right foods, you can work towards a healthier gut and a happier life.
Importance of Gut Health
Many studies have found a strong connection between gut health and mental wellness. When your gut is inflamed, it can send your body into a stressed state, sending chaos throughout your system and creating feelings of anxiety and depression. When improving your gut health, the focus is not going on a diet or cutting out foods, but rather determining which foods to add to your plate to help nourish your gut.
Signs of a Damaged Gut
There is a lot of crossover in symptoms when it comes to a damaged gut, digestive issues, and mental health. A few of the most common signs that your gut needs help are:
- Chronic exhaustion and lack of motivation
- Digestive issues (diarrhea, constipation, bloating, etc.)
- Frequent stress and feelings of anxiety
- Disrupted sleep cycles
- Frequent colds
Your lifestyle and eating habits have a significant impact on your health. Eating highly processed foods, a lack of exercise, smoking, and drinking all lead to the symptoms above.
Whole Foods for the Win
Your gut craves foods that are high in fiber. Fiber helps maintain a diverse microbiota, which aids in digestion and protects you from harmful microorganisms. But what foods are high in fiber? We’ve created a chart that you can save for your next shopping trip that breaks down the best high-fiber foods to incorporate into your meals! Ward’s also has a blog you can use as a guide for planning out healthy meals.
If you are prone to food sensitivity, then you need to focus on eating whole foods without added ingredients. For example, when you buy pasta or bread, make sure it is whole wheat with simple ingredients. Breads that have lots of added sugars and different chemicals to extend the shelf life are often gut irritants.
Fermented Foods
Fermented goods are known as superfoods as they are high in probiotics, prebiotics, and polyphenols, which are known to reduce inflammation and improve digestion. There are many fantastic fermented food options, but our five favorites are:
- Kimchi
- Sauerkraut
- Kombucha
- Yogurt and Kefir
When changing your diet, actively observe how your body reacts. Each body is unique and can require special or specific diets, so what may work for some may not work for you and vice versa. However, outside of food, one thing works for all, and that is drinking lots of water, getting proper rest, and consistently exercising.
Shop Local Produce and Whole Foods at Ward’s Supermarket!
Fresh produce, supporting local farmers and vendors, and unique goods? Yes, please! At Ward’s Supermarket, we have over 400 vendors that provide in-season produce with minimal processing and sustainable practices. Use our grocery list chart for high-fiber foods on your next trip to help guide you in planning meals!
