Tummy troubles
An unbalanced gut bacteria can mean food is not properly digested, causing an upset stomach with diarrhoea, constipation, bloating and gas.
Fix it Eat plenty of plant-based foods, including fruit, veg, wholegrains, beans, chickpeas, lentils, herbs and spices. 'These provide food for the helpful bacteria in the gut, so they can produce beneficial compounds for our cells. The greater the variety of plant foods you eat, the greater the variety of "good" bacteria your gut can support,' explains dietician Jo Travers.
Aim for 30 different plants a week with Jo's tweaks.
*Embrace beans Experiment with a medley of different ones to add diversity and boost fibre.
*Supercharge your salad Add a chopped apple.
*Liven up yogurt With nuts, seeds and berries.
*Sneak in the greens Use chard and spinach in sauces, soups and smoothies.
*Try a new ingredient Pick a different spice or herb each day to add variety and flavour to dishes.
MIX UP THE COLOURS
Remember, different colours of the same veg, such as red, yellow or green peppers, all count separately.
SUGAR CRAVINGS
We know the phrase 'like attracts like', and that goes for our gut too, because our gut bacteria feeds upon and craves more of what we give it. So, if your diet is healthy, your body will demand more healthy foods. But if you're feeding the 'bad' bacteria with sugar-rich, processed foods, they multiply and you'll crave more of these.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
10 OF THE BEST Buys for CHARITY
Look great and support Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October
How to HAGGLE
Save those £££s by plucking up the courage to negotiate
Your wellbeing
LATEST HEALTH SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR MIND AND BODY
Here to help
LET COUNSELLOR KEREN LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD
Good to GLOW
Plant your bulbs now for a lovely bright start to spring
Painted VASES
Prettify empty jars and bottles with this quick craft project
Escape to OXFORD
Delve into the city's rich cultural heritage for a wonderful weekend
Sail through menopause WITHOUT WEIGHT GAIN!
Middle-aged spread may seem inevitable - but it really doesn't have to be
Woodland wonders
When you go down to the woods, you'll find a whole new world teeming with life
'We should all be dancing'
Singer and actor Toyah Willcox on overcoming adversity, ageing and Strictly Come Dancing