There’s a lot of really exciting information coming out on gut health and the microbiome, the colony of helpful microorganisms that inhabit you and me. It’s fascinating to find out that they actual outnumber our human cells 10 to 1. It’s an extremely overlooked and important symbiotic relationship.

According to Ben Goodwin, founder of Olipop, a prebiotic soda company, we evolved to become dependent on one another. In exchange for the foods they like to eat, fiber and prebiotics, they keep our bodies functioning properly.

Just to name a few things your microbiome does for you:

– They are the first line of defense for your immune system, killing any hostile pathogens that invade your gut.

– They aid in digestion by helping to break down food.

 – They play a role in regulating hormones  including serotonin and dopamine, the feel good chemicals.

What happens when you don’t feed your gut with enough fiber and probiotics? Pretty much the opposite of that list above.

– Your immune system will stop behaving properly possibly leading to illness.

– Your digestion won’t absorb enough nutrients and your microbiome will start consuming your stomach lining.

– You will have hormonal imbalance leading to mood swings, weight gain and illness.

Here’s how to get your gut working for you! Feed it fiber and prebiotics. Prebiotics and fibers are starches and plant matter that are mainly indigestible by our bodies, but are the favorite foods of our microbial pals. Here are some great food options to keep your microbiome happy, healthy, and productive: Lentils, chia seeds, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

The FDA recommends 25 grams a day of fiber, so get chomping! Some other benefits of fibrous foods are that they slow down digestion and thusly regulate blood sugar levels by limiting insulin spikes. Also, insoluble fiber sources like roughage clean out your intestines like a snow plow. In addition to that, fiber helps shuttle food into your lower gut like a supply drop to gut microbes that live in isolated communities.

Think of your gut as your personal garden. Take care of it, and it will take care of you! Check out my Get Loved Up Detox to jump start your way to success.