Feed Your Gut: The Critical Nutrient 95% of Americans Miss

Did you know that nearly 95% of Americans are failing to consume enough of one critical nutrient A new report from nutritionfacts.org shines a spotlight on prebiotic foods the dietary fibers and resistant starches that feed the beneficial bacteria in our gut and the consequences of deficiency are far reaching Here's how it works Gut bacteria break down these fibers into short chain fatty acids which directly reduce inflammation throughout the body That means prebiotics aren't just about digestion they're linked to lower blood pressure reduced toxicity during cancer radiation therapy and even a lower risk of heart disease and stroke One study even found that combining prebiotic fiber with kefir reduced whole body inflammation more effectively than omega-3 supplements alone Yet the average American consumes only about 16 grams of fiber per day The report recommends at least 25 to 29 grams and more may be better The solution simple Plant-based diets rich in fiber with prebiotic snacks like apples bananas and oats As David Pearlmutter and others have noted the health of our microbiome influences immunity inflammation and the risk of depression obesity and cancer The good news is that strategic dietary choices can restore gut health With ...