The Gut Microbiota

A recent study found an association between the gut microbiota and insulin sensitivity in women of different races.

Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and the storage of sugar in the liver for future use. It also helps the blood sugar enter the cells to be used for energy.

Insulin sensitivity refers to the level of responsiveness the cells are to insulin. If the cells stop responding to insulin over time, they become insulin resistant and start a cascade of metabolic diseases like Diabetes.

The gut microbiota is a collection of different species of living microorganisms residing in the gut.

Differences in the gut microbiome are, to a great extent, a reflection of the diet, among other things. In other words, the more varied our diet is, the greater the abundance of these microorganisms, and the greater the health benefits (digestive, immunity, cardiometabolic health, mood, etc).

So how can boost the diversity of our gut microbiota? By eating a diverse range of foods; yes, that simple!

Try to incorporate all food groups into your diet: lots of vegetables, legumes, grains and fruit. Some fermented foods are good sources of probiotics; consider choices like kefir and sauerkraut to support your gut health.

Less of exclusion; more of inclusion