Support Your Gut with Prebiotics
Did you know that your microbiome changes throughout the day? Throughout the hour, to be more specific. The bacteria in our gut are heavily influenced by what we are eating, drinking, and thinking. Every time we digest a new meal, there is a shift in the gut microbiota. If we are under a lot of stress, that will also have an effect on our microbiome.
This is why it’s so important that we are fueling our gut throughout the day with foods, drinks, and thoughts that will support it, rather than harm it. One of the best ways we can support our gut is by feeding it foods high in prebiotics.
What are Prebiotics?
Prebiotics are a type of fiber that literally feed our good bacteria in the gut, and help produce postbiotics such as butyrate. They can be found in a variety of both soluble and insoluble fiber based foods. At Healus we’ve talked a lot about the importance of postbiotics, such as butyrate, which plays a tremendous role in the health of your gut, as well as the rest of your body. One of the essential elements that help postbiotics thrive, are prebiotics. In fact prebiotics are a necessary foundation to build and maintain healthy levels of butyrate.
Our microbiome needs a good dose of prebiotic fiber on a daily basis to create and maintain a healthy environment. The problem is most of us don’t get enough fiber in general, let alone enough prebiotic fiber. Ideally, we should be consuming 30 – 40 grams of fiber daily, but the average American only gets 15 or less. This lack of fiber leaves the good bacteria in your gut starving, and can lead to issues in digestion and irregularity.
In our experience running an integrative practice, we understand that getting in that much fiber on a daily basis can be a challenge. This is why we developed a prebiotic based protein powder for our patients. This unique hemp based protein powder provides 8 grams of fiber, and is rich in prebiotics, plant protein, and healthy fats. Once exclusive to our private practice, our innovative Prebiotic Protein is now available to the public.
Healus Prebiotic Protein Powder
In addition to the gut health benefits, Healus Prebiotic Protein contains no additives or preservatives and is 100% organic. Each ingredient is not only a prebiotic, but contains numerous other nutritional benefits.
Hemp: With 20 amino acids, prebiotic fiber, and omega fatty acids, hemp is the most nutritious, hypoallergenic, and complete plant-based protein.
Coconut: The high content of lauric acid in coconut makes it a powerhouse for gut and immune health. Lauric acid has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. The healthy fat in coconut helps to raise HDL, the good cholesterol in the body. Coconut is also a prebiotic, making it an overall must for a healthy gut.
Yacon: Full of prebiotic fiber, yacon root helps support a healthy microbiome and regularity. Yacon adds a touch of natural sweetness as well, without spiking blood sugar.
Inulin: Also known as chicory root, inulin is a soluble fiber that helps to promote regularity and alleviate constipation. Inulin is high in prebiotics, helping to nourish the good bacteria in your gut.
Cocoa (chocolate flavor only): In addition to being delicious, cocoa is a great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that protects against free radical damage. Rich in flavanols and prebiotics, cocoa supports gut and heart health.
Acacia: Acacia is a soluble rich plant known for its high prebiotic content. Helping to nourish the gut microbiome, acacia is easy to digest and promotes regularity.
Madagascar Vanilla: Rich in antioxidants, minerals, and B vitamins, vanilla adds flavor and nutrients.
Lucuma: This Peruvian fruit, often used in powdered form, is known as a natural low GI sweetener. In addition to its taste, lucuma is full of antioxidants and both soluble and insoluble fibers.
Whole Leaf Stevia: Unlike regular stevia which is typically overprocessed and can cause allergies for some people, organic whole leaf stevia does not. This ground up leaf acts as a natural sweetener and alternative to sugar, without the calories. Whole leaf stevia does not spike insulin, making it a much healthier alternative to sugar.
Pink Himalayan Salt: Pink Himalayan salt contains over 84 trace minerals and elements including magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron. Sourced from salt mines 5,000 ft deep into the Himalayan mountains, it is said to be the purest and most nutritious salt on the planet.
Benefits
Some of the benefits you may experience:
- Improved digestive health and regularity
- Reduced bloating and inflammation
- Reduced sugar cravings and helps to regulate your appetite
- Can support weight loss goals when combined with a healthy diet and exercise
- Support muscle growth and recovery
Prebiotic Protein can be enjoyed as breakfast, a post workout smoothie, or even a snack. Many of our clients enjoy 2 servings a day to really maximize their fiber and prebiotic intake. And while it’s tasty enough to just enjoy with water, we recommend getting creative and making your own smoothie.
Smoothie Recipes
Here are a few recipes to get you started:
Chocolate Strawberry Smoothie
Mango Green Vanilla Smoothie
Remember that just as you get hungry throughout the day, so does your microbiome. For a healthy gut, make sure you are feeding it right by getting in a daily dose of prebiotics.