Listen to your gut. You’ve heard that saying a gazillion times. But do you really? The gut doesn’t speak but it communicates, and all you need to do is pay attention to the signals it’s sending you about your health. That bloated feeling, acne, insomnia, irritability, PMS, weight gain, etc. may all stem from less than optimum gut flora.

Some studies have shown that approximately eighty percent of illness stems from poor gut health. So imagine, if intentional attention and energy go into what’s good for the gut, I dare say, a lot of us will probably be eighty percent healthier. Just saying.

The gut spans from the mouth, where digestion begins all the way to the rectum, and its health affects every system in the body. From your skin to your mood to your energy. Think of the gut as an ecosystem of microbes (good and bad) that exist within the body, and simply put, their purpose is to support digestive health by breaking down foods, absorbing nutrients, detoxifying, and eliminating waste.

Here are 5 Foods That Support Gut Health

1. Whole Grain Sourdough

Though not the best. Whole grain sourdough is a much better option for digestion than white bread. Due to the fermentation process it has prebiotic fiber and promotes the growth of helpful bacteria.

2. Green Bananas

Green bananas have an abundance of probiotics and prebiotics. As a result, it feeds good bacteria and supports digestion. It also promotes a feeling of fullness, which means you’ll feel hungry less.

3. Millet

Millet, a versatile grain has an abundance of probiotics, which makes it a great source of support for the digestive system. It’s also rich in niacin, which is important for the skin’s health.

4. Kimchi

Kimchi is a traditional South Korean dish that offers many health benefits. The recipe includes cabbage, sugar, salt, onions, peppers, garlic, and a host of other nourishing vegetables. It contains lots of probiotics, which support digestive health, immune health, and is also anti-inflammatory.

5. Sauerkraut

Similar to kimchi, sauerkraut’s recipe includes fermented cabbage, which also contains numerous benefits. As a matter of fact, due to the fermentation process, it contains more health benefits than raw cabbage. Sauerkraut is rich in probiotic content, which provides digestive support and benefits for overall health.