You may have heard that eating the right kinds of fats is important to being healthy, but are you confused about which fats are best for your health and your gut?
Dr. Mark Hyman, M.D., discusses what the microbes in our stomachs need and how our consumption of the wrong kinds of fats can damage them.
Microbiome, also known as gut bacteria, is important for breaking down the nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy, as well as regulate hormones and get rid of toxins. Not having the right kind of bacteria may be linked to severe medical problems, such as:
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Allergies
- Diabetes
- Obesity
Unhealthy microbiome can be linked to the consumption of foods that contain omega 6
fats, such those found in vegetable oil. Dr. Hyman says that in order to have a healthy gut, and to avoid other serious health problems, we should consume more foods that contain omega 3 fats.
Omega 3 fats, such as those contained in extra-virgin olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, almonds, and fish are much better for you and help to promote the healthy bacteria. Some ideas that Dr. Hyman has for promoting good gut health and support microbiome include:
- Eliminate from your diet highly processed carbohydrates and sugar.
- Cut out omega 6 fats.
- Eat foods rich in fiber.
- Choose to have most of your meals to be plant-based.
- Eat fermented foods such as sauerkraut, miso, or tempeh.
- Take omega 3 supplements.
Dr. Hyman notes that this is not a cure-all for every kind of medical problem. However, by making dietary changes that emphasize omega 3 fats found in foods that are not processed, you can begin to make a positive change in your health, and the health of your inner bacteria as well.
Want to know more?
Read the full article here: How to Fix Your Gut Bacteria and Lose Weight.
