As we age, our body's natural functions slow down and, at times, will not work well. These can manifest in various ways, and one of which is experiencing digestive issues such as heartburn, constipation, gas, and bloating, among others.
For this reason, maintaining a healthy gut means we need to be careful with our food choices. According to UC Davis Health, food is broken down in the gut to a simple form so it can be seeped through in the bloodstream and be delivered as nutrients throughout our bodies.
This process is possible if you have a healthy digestive system that contains immune cells and bacteria that fight off bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
A well-kept gut can also communicate with the brain through nerves and hormones, which helps maintain good health and well-being. Thankfully, a healthy gut can be achieved by choosing the right food.
Health experts say that fruits and vegetables are the best sources of nutrients for a healthy microbiota. Additionally, beans and legumes also contain very high amounts of fiber.
Other food items that can also be good for your gut include raspberries, Artichokes, green peas, broccoli, chickpeas, lentils, and whole grains.
Interestingly, one food item is also gaining popularity nowadays, and studies claim that it is also a gut-friendly choice.
According to The Latch, recent studies indicate that avocados may help keep your gut healthy and happy. In recent years, avocados have gained popularity for having nutritional benefits, especially for helping reduce cholesterol and having lots of fiber that the body needs.
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A new study reveals that they have an impact on the microbes in your gastrointestinal system. This study focused on how daily avocado consumption affects the health of the gut.
Researchers have recruited 163 adults between 25 and 45 years old, who were given one meal per day to consume as a replacement to their usual breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
One group ate an avocado with each meal, while a control group ate something similar. The participants were asked to give blood, urine, and fecal samples throughout the research.
Senior author of the study, Professor Hannah Holscher, revealed that the study's goal was to test their hypothesis that the fats and the fiber in avocados positively affect the gut microbiota.
As a result, they had discovered that avocado was a winner when it came to being a gut-friendly food. Its high amount of monounsaturated fats, potassium, and dietary fiber are the main factors why it is beneficial for the gut.
Holscher said that less than five percent of Americans eat enough fiber. She added that incorporating avocados in a person's daily diet can help meet the fiber recommendation.
Additionally, fiber isn't just right for the body; it's essential for the microbiome, too! Holscher explains that we cannot break down dietary fibers, but certain gut microbes can. That means that when we eat dietary fiber, it's a win-win for gut microbes and us.
Aside from being a gut-friendly microbiome booster, avocado is also an energy-dense food and, at the same time, nutrient-dense.
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