Maintaining a healthy microbiome is important for disease prevention, as well as supporting immunity and mood.
When making meals, keep your kitchen stocked with this spice.
But dont overlook the spices in your pantry.
Photo:Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel
To get you started, we asked gut-health experts for their thoughts on the top spice for gut health.
Read on to find out their favorite.
Keeping your gut in tip-top shape is all about balance.
There are trillions of bacteria living in the gut, which are collectively known as the gut microbiome.
Within that microbiome, there are good and bad bacteria.
One catch with turmeric is that curcumin is poorly absorbed by the body.
There is a workaround for this, and it is adding black pepper when you eat turmeric.
It increases absorption by 2,000%.
Let that settle in, Bulsiewicz says.
First, curcumin helps maintain a positive balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Reduces Inflammation
Ground turmeric has a golden hue, while fresh turmeric is a bright orange.
Foods with rich, deep colors like this contain high amounts of polyphenols.
These compounds found in fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices offer potential health benefits.
The limitation is that the amount of curcumin in an extract will far exceed whats found in food.
However, the results are promising.
Manage Stress
Theres a strong connection between the gut and brain.
Focus on Hydration
Besides inadequate fiber intake, a common culprit for digestive woes isdehydration.
Adequate hydration helps your digestive system work properly by softening stool and supporting the mucosal lining of the intestines.
If you often reach for carbonated beverages to meet your hydration goals, stick to moderation.
Nahar explains they may cause aerophagia, or essentially the problem of swallowing too much air.
The main symptom of this is excessive flatulence and bloating, she says.
However, dont forget to include some herbs and spices in your meals to maximize your gut health.
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