Sky Lakes Medical Center | Live Smart | Spring 2020

4 LIVE smart | Spring 2020 By Andie Scherer, RDN, LDN Sky Lakes Diabetes and Nutrition Services A healthy gut is a happy gut— and maybe even a happier you! Studies have linked gut health to mood, mental health, immune system and more. The human gut is home to trillions of microorganisms. Some are really great for your health, and some aren’t so great. It’s your job to nurture the “good” bacteria so your gut and body can thrive. Here’s what to feed that “good” bacteria: Should I supplement? Like other dietary supplements, probiotic supplements do not undergo the testing and approval process by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that medicines do before they hit the market. Moreover, the health benefits of probiotics are strain-specific, and researchers are still working to figure out which strains of bacteria may help treat or prevent specific health conditions. So approach probiotic supplements carefully, and remember that there’s no guarantee that the types of bacteria in a certain probiotic supplement will be effective for the condition you are trying to treat. Prebiotics Prebiotics are types of dietary fiber that feed the friendly bacteria in your gut. They help beneficial bacteria grow, which leaves less room for bad bacteria to make themselves at home. Where to find them: Bananas, asparagus, garlic, oats, onions, whole grains, chicory roots, beans and many more! Eat better to feel better with these tips to boost your gut health! Gut health edition Spring cleaning: