Best Elements for Weight Loss and Gut Health

Weight loss is dependent on a number of things, and hormone balance is one of them.

Excess oestrogen (oestrogen dominance) can see weight being settled on your belly, abdomen and thighs as once the ovaries are not functioning this is where the body produces its oestrogen.

Unfortunately not all diets are healthy either, so it’s best to choose one that not only helps you lose weight but gives you what you need in terms of taking care of your whole body system.

What you want to achieve is a diet that keeps your gut healthy and functioning optimally – and can help you lose weight.

There are some overall good diets such as the Mediterranean diet or the anti-inflammatory diet, but what you are looking for are these elements.

Your food friends

Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can improve the balance of microbes in your gut.

Bananas are a great source of inulin, a type of fibre that helps good bacteria in your gut thrive.

Leafy greens are high in fibre and vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are beneficial for gut health.

Whole grains contain fibre that can’t be broken down, so they reach your lower gut and feed the helpful bacteria there.

Polyphenol-rich foods can promote the growth of good gut bacteria. You will find them in berries, tea, coffee, and red wine.

Choose protein wisely as fish, beans, and tofu are lower in saturated fat and calories than red meat, making it a good choice for those watching their weight or cholesterol levels.

Red meat is a good source of protein, iron, B vitamins, and zinc and so choose organic, lean meat and avoid processed meat.

Your food foes

So you know what will help your gut, but there are other elements in your diet than can make keeping it healthy more difficult.

Fried foods can damage healthy gut bacteria, so it’s best to limit or avoid them.

Antibiotics can kill both good and bad bacteria in your gut, so it’s important to limit foods that contain them.

Particularly farmed fish or animal products that have been treated with antibiotics. 

Alcohol can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your gut, so it’s best to consume it in moderation.

Caffeine can irritate your digestive system, leading to diarrhoea which can damage the gut by disrupting the gut microbiome, causing inflammation.

The increased frequency of bowel movements and the passage of excessive water can wash away beneficial bacteria, while also creating an environment where harmful bacteria can thrive.

Be aware of your caffeine intake and stick to moderate amounts.

Helpful information 

I hope this has given you some guidance, and if you’re not sure if you are oestrogen dominant – or may need some other hormone help – then this article will give you that information.

https://anna.blog.wellsprings-health.com/which-hormone-or-hormones-might-you-need/