THE IMPORTANCE OF PLANT-BASED FOOD IN YOUR DIET

As new wellness research continues to emerge, the significance of the gut microbiome in maintaining overall health is becoming increasingly clear. Beyond its role in digestion, the trillions of microbes that exist in our intestines are often called our “second brain.“

Made up of bacteria, fungi, yeast and viruses, microbiome are intricately connected to countless bodily functions and influences everything from metabolism to mental health by communicating with the brain, heart, liver and immune system. By understanding how our microbiome impacts our bodies, we can adjust our diet, lifestyle and daily habits to enhance gut health and overall wellbeing.

It’s estimated that about 100 trillion microbes reside in the human body, and since the gut is the body’s largest immune organ, with about 80% of immune-producing cells, gut microbes play an essential role in helping to digest fibre, synthesise vitamins (like B and K) and protect against pathogens. A diverse microbiome with beneficial microbes reduces the risk of chronic conditions, supports the immune system and aids in managing weight and overall health.

An imbalance, or dysbiosis, can lead to digestive issues like constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, fatigue, acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as well as more serious conditions like diabetes, obesity and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Diets high in ultra-processed foods and low in fibre can reduce microbial diversity, promoting harmful bacteria. The experts at Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary & Holistic Spa recommend a diet rich in fibre and plant-based, minimally processed foods to support healthy microbiome functioning.

We should eat a variety of fruits and vegetables which promote microbial diversity, which is crucial for gut health and add fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi and kombucha to our diets for added beneficial bacteria. It’s also important to increase fibre intake with high-fibre foods like whole grains, lentils and berries.

Other ways to promote the production of healthy microbiome is to eat consistently, with a regular eating schedule and to reduce stress, since stress negatively impacts the gut microbiome. Try to limit long-term use medications like antibiotics and acid-reducing agents and when you do have to use these products, supplement the diet with Probiotics and Prebiotics.

For enhanced insight into your gut microbiome, discover the benefits of the Enriched Gut wellness program at Kamalaya. The program aims to enhance gut healing and improve digestive functioning and provides tools for long term gut health. Working with a wellness consultant, yoga teacher and TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) practitioner you’ll increase overall wellbeing and vitality and help improve microbiome production and immune functioning.