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Writer's pictureJeannine Love

Our Microbiome

Updated: Jul 28



"All diseases begin in the gut", according to the ancient Greek physician, Hippocrates. Our digestive system does more than process and assimilate nutrients from the foods we eat; it's also involved in immune system function. This is because about 70% of our immune system resides in the gut. The microbiome of our gut include the friendly microorganisms of bacteria, viruses, protozoa, archaea, and fungi; and is a sensitive ecosystem, just as the rainforest is to the earth. This delicate ecosystem needs diversity, harmony, and cooperation among the microorganisms. The more diverse our gastrointestinal microbiome is, the more it will positively influence every aspect of our well-being.


However, a damaged microbiome leads to digestive imbalances and could lead to serious digestive issues. This imbalance can turn the key in our genes that code for unhealthy aging and inflammation. The damage to our microbiome began after World War II when, as a society, we shifted to a diet of overly-processed foods that are low in fiber, high in salt, saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates. This shift to, what is now called the Standard American Diet or SAD, has caused an increase in autoimmune diseases, mood disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic diseases, and accelerated aging.


What to can we do?


1. Well first, eat your colors! Include green, yellow, orange, red, purple, blue, white, tan and brown foods.


2. Include herbs and spices daily in your diet. There are many choices here: mints, chamomile, turmeric, cilantro, nettles, parsley, cinnamon, clove, oregano, basil, sage, rosemary, curry, star anise, dill, green tea, herbal teas, black tea, herbal coffees, milk thistle and so much more.


3. Eat nuts and seeds, such as sesame, pumpkin, sunflower, brazil nuts, walnuts, cashews, almonds, hazel, macadamia.


4. Increase fiber intake such as with flax seeds, chia seeds, oats, popcorn, split peas, lentils, beans, almonds, and, of course, dark chocolate.


5. Eliminate processed foods i.e., anything with more than 5 ingredients on the label; foods with additives, preservatives, and anything that you can't pronounce; refined sugars; saturated fats; caffeine and energy drinks.


References

https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/microbiome-health-diet


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