Medically Reviewed by Jabeen Begum, MD on July 15, 2024
Fermented Foods
1/10

Fermented Foods

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
2/10

Bananas

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

Leafy Greens
3/10

Leafy Greens

High in fiber and a special carb, leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are beneficial for gut health.

Whole Grains
4/10

Whole Grains

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

Polyphenol-Rich Foods
5/10

Polyphenol-Rich Foods

Colorful foods like berries, tea, coffee, and red wine are rich in polyphenols, which can promote the growth of good gut bacteria.

Lean Protein Sources
6/10

Lean Protein Sources

Red meat can trigger the growth of unhealthy gut bacteria, so opt for leaner protein sources like fish, beans, and tofu.

Avoid Fried Foods
7/10

Avoid Fried Foods

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

Avoid Foods With Antibiotics
8/10

Avoid Foods With Antibiotics

Antibiotics can kill both good and bad bacteria in your gut, so it's important to limit foods that contain them, such as animal products that have been treated with antibiotics.

Limit Alcohol
9/10

Limit Alcohol

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

Be Mindful of Caffeine
10/10

Be Mindful of Caffeine

Too much caffeine can irritate your digestive system, leading to diarrhea. Be mindful of your caffeine intake and stick to moderate amounts.
 

This content was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.