The human gut is home to trillions of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These microbes play a crucial role in our health, helping to digest food, produce vitamins, and protect us from pathogens. However, not all foods are equally good for our gut microbiome. In fact, some foods can actually disrupt the delicate balance of microbes in our gut and lead to problems like inflammation, diarrhea, and weight gain.
Here are the worst foods for your gut:
Refined carbohydrates: Refined carbs like white bread and pasta are quickly digested by the body and can cause spikes in blood sugar levels. This can be harmful for both diabetics and non-diabetics alike. Additionally, refined carbs can promote the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut while reducing the populations of beneficial microbes.
Processed meats: Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meat are high in saturated fat and sodium which can be damaging to gut health. These meats also contain Nitrates which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Furthermore, processed meats are often high in advanced glycation end products (AGEs) which can promote inflammation throughout the body (including in the gut).Read More »Key Insights on the 8 Worst Foods for Your Gut