Gut Health – The Key to Feeling Your Best
"The biggest indicator of a healthy gut is the variety of plants in one's diet." What if I told you your gut isn’t just about digestion—it controls your mood, energy, immune system, and cravings? Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that help break down food, absorb nutrients, and even produce serotonin—the neurotransmitter that regulates mood and sleep. In fact, 90% of serotonin is made in your gut, meaning a struggling gut = more stress, mood swings, and brain fog. How to Improve Gut Health Practically (and Affordably) 1️⃣ Eat at least 30 different plants per week 🌱 → Different fibers feed different gut bacteria, making digestion smoother, reducing inflammation, and strengthening immunity. Diversity = balance. 👉 Use the WFPB Checklist to easily add more whole foods into your routine without overthinking it! 2️⃣ Prioritize fermented foods 🥒 → Foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, and miso introduce good bacteria that help digestion, reduce bloating, and support immune function. 3️⃣ Hydrate smarter 💧 → Your gut lining needs water to function properly. Dehydration can slow digestion and lead to bloating or constipation. Aim for at least 2L daily and consider herbal teas for added gut support. (especially fennel and ginger) 4️⃣ Get outside & touch the earth 🌍 → Your gut microbiome is shaped by your environment. Walking barefoot, gardening, or even petting a dog can introduce healthy bacteria that improve gut diversity. 5️⃣ Chew your food—seriously 🍽 → Digestion starts in your mouth, not your stomach. Chewing properly allows food to break down more efficiently, reducing bloating and maximizing nutrient absorption. 6️⃣ Manage stress—your gut feels it too 😵💫 → Your gut and brain are constantly talking. High stress = more cortisol, which can slow digestion, weaken gut bacteria and trigger cravings. Try breathwork, meditation, or simply eating in a relaxed state.