A healthy gut microbiome can aid our bodies in fighting off pathogens and improving mental health. To achieve this, it’s essential to diversify your diet with a variety of plants from the “super six” categories: whole grains, nuts and seeds, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and herbs and spices.
Registered dietitian Megan Rossi recommends chewing your food more thoroughly. Research shows that when we chew our food 10-40 times, we absorb more nutrients, which is crucial for gut health. However, this can be challenging for many of us due to a lack of time or practice.
Rossi suggests focusing on the first two mouthfuls of every meal and gradually increasing the number of chews over time. Even just three extra chews per mouthful can make a significant difference in promoting better chewing habits and boosting gut health. By doing so, you’ll be taking the first step towards a healthier gut microbiome.
Additionally, Rossi emphasizes the importance of proper digestion. When we chew our food slowly, we break it down physically and chemically, allowing our bodies to extract more nutrients. This can lead to improved overall health and well-being.
By incorporating these simple tips into your daily routine, you’ll be on your way to a healthier gut microbiome and better mental health.
Source: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/gut-health-microbiome-chewing_l_69bfe18de4b01c6ce885db99