More Kissing, Less Kimchi: Gut Health Boosters

Here’s a breakdown of the gut health information‌ from the provided text:

Chocolate &​ gut Health:

* ⁣ Dark⁣ chocolate (75% cocoa or higher) is beneficial due to polyphenols. These compounds:
* Feed good gut microbes.
​ * Act as antioxidants in‌ the gut.
* ‍ Chocolate is made from⁢ fermented beans, contributing to its gut-pleasant properties. It can count towards yoru “30 plants a week.”
* Dark ⁣chocolate ​also contains⁢ healthy minerals, fiber, and ⁢micronutrients.

* Recommended brands: Lindt Excellence ⁣dark‌ 85% Cocoa and Green​ & Black’s Organic Dark 85% Chocolate ⁢(choose options with few ingredients).

Vagus Nerve & Gut​ Health:

* ⁢ The vagus nerve is a key communication pathway between the brain ⁢and gut.
* Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters⁢ that ​stimulate the vagus nerve.
* Higher vagal tone (nerve activity) is linked to:
⁤ * ⁣More diverse and balanced gut microbiomes.
* Impaired vagus nerve can contribute to​ gut⁣ issues like:
​ ⁢* Slowed gut motility (food movement).
* Reduced‍ digestive juice release.
* Stimulating the vagus nerve (in ⁤medical settings) may:
‍ * ⁣ Influence gut motility.
* Improve⁤ microbial balance.
* ‌ Control inflammation.
* Boost immune function.
* Simple ways to stimulate the vagus nerve:

‌ * Gargling

* ⁤ Singing

⁣ * Laughing