Considering that 70% of the immune system resides in the gut, you want it to be healthy so you can stay well. Gabrielle Grandell, aka The Gut Goddess, explores the essentials of pre-, pro-, and postbiotics—key components for maintaining gut health.
The Role of Prebiotics
Just as plants need sunlight, water, and soil, probiotics need their own fuel. Enter prebiotics—the non-digestible fibers and resistant starches that feed your beneficial gut bacteria. Here are some foods that are rich in prebiotics:
- Chicory root
- Apples and bananas
- Flax seeds
- Jerusalem artichokes
- Asparagus and dandelion greens
- Onions and leeks
The Beneficial Bacteria
Did you know there are more bacteria in your body than human cells? Probiotics are the beneficial microorganisms that populate your gut. Think of them as a diverse garden of plants, each with its unique role. Common strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium and many others work together to create a thriving gut environment.
Postbiotics: How They Help
When probiotics feast on prebiotics, they produce postbiotics—the byproducts of fermentation. These compounds, such as butyrate and other short-chain fatty acids and more, play crucial roles in your body, including
- Repairing the gut lining
- Regulating the immune system
- Reducing inflammation
- Inhibiting harmful pathogens
New and emerging research suggests postbiotics may even have anticarcinogenic properties, help regulate metabolism, and have potential in supporting weight management and blood sugar control.
How To Nurture Your Gut Ecosystem
To maintain a healthy gut, Gabrielle helps you to focus on incorporating a variety of probiotic-rich foods and prebiotic fibers into your diet. This balanced approach ensures your gut has both the beneficial bacteria and the fuel they need to thrive.
At Gabrielle’s office, she is passionate about helping you achieve optimal gut health. Ready to take your wellness to the next level? Contact Dallas Functional Nutritionist and Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach Gabrielle today. She wants to support your journey to a healthier, happier gut.