What is all of this conversation about "gut health"?

What is all of this conversation about “ Gut Health”? What does that really mean? This is a topic that I will be talking about for months to come. Here is a little background but  only a snapshot of information. In recent years, much has been learned about how all of the bacteria in our gut influence our health, everything from our immune system to our mental health can be largely influenced by the trillions of bacteria in our digestive system.

Gut Microbiome

This is known as our gut microbiome. While the complexities of the microbiome are being studied in depth, we do know that things like processed food that is often laden with chemicals, stress, chlorinated water and many medications such as those used for gastrointestinal reflux and antibiotics can contribute to an unhealthy microbiome. A plant based diet loaded with fruits and vegetables is certainly beneficial for our gut health as well as trying to focus on nutrient dense minimally processed foods, pasture raised meats and healthy fats like olive oil, nuts and avocado. We can also incorporate some good bacteria known as probiotics into our diet by adding food items like yogurt, kombucha and sauerkraut to name a few.

Bone Broth for Gut Health

An additional strategy that I recommend to improve gut health is to incorporate some bone broth into the diet. For those people who eat a minimal amount of animal products including myself that might not sound appealing  First, why is bone broth beneficial and healing to the gut? Bone broth is high in glycine and can be soothing to the gut and offer antiinflammatory qualities as well glutamine and other essential amino acids which can offer healing and support to the intestinal lining.

Formula IQ Bone Broth

Fortunately, there are also now bone broth products in a powdered form with additional ingredients for our health such as turmeric which is also lowers inflammation.  And it tastes great due to other healthful flavors and ingredients that have been incorporated like cinnamon and vanilla. An added bonus is that bone broth is not only beneficial for your gut but great for your skin, hair and nails because it promotes collagen production. My favorite is

Formula IQ …….one scoop contains 8 grams of protein and only 30 calories! It is delicious by itself as a tea or with almond or coconut milk. I also add it to cooked stews and soups for extra nutrition!