Encouraging intestinal health can help maintain good health in general. Gut health has been linked to immune function and even mental health.
What we eat and drink can directly impact gut health. For those looking for a breakfast with ingredients that promote intestinal health, there are two foods that can help to this end, they are nutritious and versatile.
Oatmeal
Oats is a type of cereal grain with good nutritional value. It has several components that can exert health benefits.
According to the Harvard Nutrition Source, oats can not only provide satiety, they can also prevent constipation, support the intestinal microbiota and bind to cholesterol-rich bile acids in the intestine to carry them out of the body.
The main type of soluble fiber in oats is beta-glucan which contributes to bowel regularity and the prevention of constipation. Harvard explains that oat bran is more effective than that of fruits and vegetables. “It has the ability to increase the weight and water content of feces, making them easier to expel.”
The decomposition and fermentation of beta-glucan oat fiber increases the diversity of the intestinal microbiota.
Whole oats also provide compounds that act as antioxidants to reduce the damaging effects of chronic inflammation associated with various diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Bananas
Bananas are satiating, a source of nutrients and beneficial with the intestine.
Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that bananas are a low-fructose fruit that are high in fiber and contain inulin, a substance that stimulates the growth of good bacteria in the intestine .
Bananas are not only good for the intestine, but also for cardiovascular health and provide a boost of energy.
These fruits are a source of potassium which decreases the effects of sodium. “Potassium-rich foods are important for controlling blood pressure… The more potassium you eat, the more sodium you lose through urine. Potassium also helps relieve tension in the walls of blood vessels, which helps to further reduce blood pressure, “explains the American Heart Association.
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