Anyone that’s ever suffered from any form of digestive discomfort knows how unpleasant it can be, regardless of whether it causes cramping, bloating, gas or constipation. As a clinical nutritionist, Jessica Sepel has treated a number of different cases and is passionate about helping people improve their overall health and happiness, which we all know by now is greatly influenced by the gut.
“A healthy gut contains a balance of healthy bacteria,” says Jessica Sepel of JSHealth. “Your gut holds trillions of bacteria that help process your food, produce nutrients, and fight disease. I truly believe that when the gut is repopulated with healthy flora, our health can improve.”
Jessica recommends adding these foods to your diet to help with any tummy troubles:
1. Dark leafy greens
Dark, leafy greens like spinach, kale and silverbeet are packed with antioxidants, which help protect us from cellular damage. Greens are rich in fibre, which promotes good gut health. Try filling half of your plate with greens at lunch and dinner.
2. Apple cider vinegar
1-2 tbsp in warm water or into your large water bottle and sip throughout the day. This stimulates the hydrochloric acid in your stomach for digestion, which assists with nutrient absorption.
3. Probiotic-rich foods
Fermented foods, such as kombucha, sauerkraut and kefir, are great for the gut and reduce inflammation, support digestion which assists with skin health.
4. Prebiotic wholefoods
These foods feed and support the growth of good bacteria such as onions, garlic, dandelion, greens, asparagus, artichokes and bananas.
5. Chia seeds
These are truly nature’s little powerhouse. They are a great source of fibre, plant-based protein and essential fatty acids. Plus, they’re great for your digestion and keep you regular. I add them to my morning smoothie or use them to make chia pudding.
6. Turmeric
This yellow spice is traditionally used in Western herbal medicine to relieve digestive discomfort and to promote bile secretion. Sprinkle it over salads, curries and soups.
7. Fennel
This medicinal and aromatic plant widely used in herbal medicine as a carminative, digestive and diuretic and in treating respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. This is why we placed it into our detox + debloat formula.
8. Omega-3 fatty acids
Helps to moisturise our skin and reduce inflammatory flare-ups. Include salmon, mackerel, sardines, eggs, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and extra virgin olive oil.
9. Zinc-rich foods
Zinc relieves the symptoms of acne, pimples, and minor skin eruptions. Examples include oysters and other seafood, red meat, pumpkin seeds, legumes, eggs, nuts and seeds.
