Low carb, high protein or high fat diets are all the rage. They do an amazing job of cutting out refined sugars, flours and processed foods. This change alone can impact the average person’s diet in an extremely positive way!
The concern lies in how we go about following these low carbohydrate diets. Since microbiome diversity is dependent on an adequate gut environment as well as proper microbial nourishment, these things must be taken into consideration. Since healthy gut bacteria feed off of soluble fiber, we must make sure that we are getting enough “fish food” so to speak to keep our gut bacteria thriving. While refined sugars and simple carbs promote bad bacterial growth, complex carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables and sweet potatoes actually promote the growth of positive, healthy bacteria. If the good bacteria isn’t being fed then it will start to die out. This reduces the diversity of the microbiome and thus the power of the body’s immune system.
Don’t get me wrong, I personally do best on a lower carb diet, so in order to nurture my good gut bacteria I make the calories count. My meals may be lower carb but those carbs are top grade! Small amounts of sweet potato or quinoa and lots of veggies. I have a personal rule that I don’t count the calories of greens. Broccoli, cabbage, spinach, celery etc. It’s all FREE to me!!
One great way to see if your diet is working for your gut is to get your gut tested.
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