health resolution, and it doesn’t mean that you suddenly have to go vegan. Where to begin?
Start with foods that seem to be especially good for the gut, rich in nutrients and the various types of fiber that create healthy bacteria when they reach the colon and/or push out unwanted ones.
Bacteria-boosting foods include bananas and blueberries, Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus, leeks, onions, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, cabbage and cauliflower, polenta (a type of ground corn), all kinds of beans, and fermented foods rich in probiotics, such as pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso and kefir, the yogurt-like drink.
Also know what to avoid for better gut health. Fatty animal foods and high-fat cooking techniques, like deep frying, top the list. In addition, be judicious about taking antibiotics, which can kill off good bacteria in your system along with the bad.
More information
The University of Washington has more on gut bacteria and the role they play in well-being.
