#Guthealth is the new #cleaneating trend that’s hitting the mainstream, with a huge spike in the availability of prebiotic and probiotic beverages hitting supermarket shelves. So let’s address this by not actually talking about kombucha, but some other elements that contribute to overall gastrointestinal well being.
Firstly, why is it important to do some gut gardening? Well, to keep it working well you need to get rid of the pests and weeds don’t you? The digestive system is where we absorb our nutrients, nutrients being what keeps our cells alive. Suffice it to say, it’s a pretty important consideration. The difference between having a healthy gut and a not-so-healthy gut lies in its reaction to the foods you ingest. Keep in mind, just because you’ve felt bloated for three days does not mean your guts are unhealthy! But if you’ve been bloated for weeks or months, then that may be a long term sign that something is not right.
One digestive aid that is available in most supermarkets these days is aloe vera juice (I’m not referring to the premixed juices that contain a week’s worth of refined sugar per serve), I’m talking the natural stuff that tastes a bit like a shot of vinegar. Aloe vera is home to 70 different nutrients, including the well loved magnesium, calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, potassium, zinc and more, not to mention the smorgasbord of antioxidants and B vitamins essential for that energy boost!
Other than it’s plethora of surprises, it’s objective is to boost digestion and absorption through release of certain enzymes, one of which being amylase and for those of you on fat loss or weight loss programs, you should know all about amylase. This mate helps you break down carbohydrates and sugars!
If aloe wasn’t talented enough, it also contains nutrients called prebiotics that feed and grow the good gut bacteria in the GI tract, supporting probiotic colonies that also help to clean the gunk out of your system for optimal function, and reducing inflammation to prevent situations such as bloating and discomfort.
I personally take aloe vera for its antiinflammatory effects, being on a high protein diet it is very easy for the body pH to move up the acidic scale, so taking a shot of aloe vera before meal time helps ease and re-balance the scale.
Have a shot and let us know in the comments below!
Until next time!
Yours in Health & Fitness,
Sofia