Hi there wild women.  Thanks for taking a little time to read this and for taking in a little nourishment!  Nutrition is all about supporting your vital energy…your vitality.  It makes sense when you consider that the word “vitamin” literally translates to “vital amine”.  And yet many of us women have a surprisingly hard time not only getting all of the vitamins our body needs but also making use of them.
One of the quickest and most effective ways to jump-start your health is to support your digestive system.  Supporting healthy digestion is not only about making your tummy feel good and helping your body extract all of those good nutrients from the food you eat, but it is also about building a robust immune system and a diverse microbiome (good gut bacteria).   The gut needs a few key things to be in balance including two important things I want you to consider today.
The first, good gut bacteria (probiotics).   Probiotics are helpful bacterial that get from key foods and supplements that nourish the intestinal tract.  Probiotics are key to boosting energy, producing feel good neurotransmitters, and supporting health.
Some naturally probiotic rich foods include unpasteurized sauerkraut, tempeh, and miso.  Incorporate these into your daily meals.  It is also a good idea to take probiotic supplements to assist your body in getting enough bacteria for vital health.  Look for a probiotic that has at least 4 billion CFU (colony forming units) and one that has multiple strains of bacteria.  One of my favorites is UltraFlora^® Balance.
The second, digestive enzymes that break down the food we eat so that it can optimally nourish our body, our mind, and our soul.  Like probiotics we can find some great support of the production of digestive enzymes in foods we eat including pineapple, papaya, and mango.  There are also naturally supportive bitter plants such as dandelion root, burdock root, and fennel.  I am in love with a special product made by friends here in Vermont called Urban Moonshine Digestive Bitters.  Please note ahead of time, resist the temptation to dilute these in water!  Instead allow your taste buds to adjust to what will likely be a new taste! A happy and healthy gut nourishes a happy and healthy life.
Enjoy!
Kimberly Evans MS RD is a functional medicine registered dietitian who is passionate about The Good Life + Health.  To schedule a consultation or to learn more about her practice send her an email at Kimberly@wholehealthnutritionvt.com