Did you know that the microbes inhabiting our guts outnumber human body cells about 10:1 . . . downright makes you wonder who’s running the show. Like all animals, we evolved along with our food supply, and alongside the microbes that live in and on our bodies. Much scientific interest is focused on gut bacteria and their role in our immune response and the functioning of our brains. A diverse gut population of beneficial microbes is associated with a healthy immune system and good health.
The Standard American Diet (SAD) of highly processed, sanitized, devitalized, industrial food products, however, has not only reduced that diversity, but has produced a less than ideal mix of gut bacteria. Result: compromised immune system, reduced vitality, and an engraved invitation for a bunch of undesirable critters to set up shop.
How can you change the mix of gut bacteria? By choosing a diet that is rich in plant foods, rich in diversity, and rich in probiotics. Foods high in probiotics include fermented foods like sauerkraut and tempeh, yogurt, kefir, pickles, miso and dark chocolate!