Do you only think about your ‘gut’ when you get stomach cramps after exercising too close to eating? Or when you get the ‘runs on a run’… enough said on that!
The truth is there is increasing evidence that the gut plays a significant role, not just in our digestion, but also in our immune response and athletic performance.
Within your gut exists a remarkable and intricate ecosystem, housing trillions of bacteria, yeast, and viruses collectively known as the ‘gut flora’ or ‘microbiome’.
Among these microorganisms, some are beneficial while others aren’t, and maintaining a healthy equilibrium between the two is crucial.
Remarkably, we can positively influence our gut microbiome by providing it with the right combination of prebiotic and probiotic foods. Probiotics are living organisms found in fermented foods. Kimchi, live yoghurt, kefir, miso and sauerkraut are good examples.
Prebiotics are plant-based foods such as leeks, onions, nuts and seeds, garlic, tomatoes, radishes, legumes and wholegrains. The soluble fibres in these foods nourish the beneficial bacteria.
Here’s my first of four, gut-friendly recipes – a granola that’s packed with sustaining carbohydrate and healthy fats, and goes great with yoghurt and fruit for breakfast or as a pre or post-workout snack.