Add This To Your Diet For More Gut Support (Beyond Probiotics)

Some gut-boosting foods are obvious: Think sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, etc. While these fermented foods are probiotic stars, they aren't the only ingredients that your gut microbiome craves.

The herbs most commonly used among the group included black pepper, onion, garlic, cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric, with cinnamon having the highest polyphenol content. 

They split the group into low, medium, and high polyphenol consumer categories. While general microbiome diversity was consistent among the groups, those who consumed more polyphenols had more Lactobacillus bacteria, which includes strains that support intestinal health. 

One of the easiest ways to add fresh herbs and spices to your day is by making your own salad dressing and sauces. You can take a simple base like tahini and lemon or cilantro and lime and then liven up the drizzle with herbs and spices of your choice. If you decide to reach for fresh herbs, consider blending them into the dressing base for a cohesive flavor profile. 

I've made it a mission to get more turmeric into my diet in the last few months, and rice has been one of the easiest ways to use it. Simply drop a teaspoon of turmeric and a dash of ginger in with your rice before cooking it. The result? Better-tasting rice also delivers a gorgeous golden hue to any meal.