For some, eating low-fat and sugar-free items along with moderate exercise does the trick. But warmer weather is quickly approaching, and the best way to reach your ideal body type for swimsuit season is to focus on something that’s often less discussed.

Recent research shows that the bacteria in your gut — often referred to as the gut microbiome or microbiota — may have a larger impact on your weight than either diet or exercise. Of course, the ideal combination for your overall health includes a combination of nutrition that caters to the good bacteria in your gut, along with regular exercise.

But how do you cater to the good bacteria while reducing the amount of harmful bacteria in your gut? East West Health wants to help you understand how to do just that.

Go with your gut

Everyone has both good and bad bacteria in their intestines. Up until about five years ago, many thought this bacteria was largely useless. But several research studies have shown that certain types of gut bacteria are better than others.

For instance, the bacteria Christensenellaceae has been associated with having a slimmer frame, while a lack thereof usually goes with obesity. Depending on which type of bacteria is in abundance, your body may struggle or excel at metabolizing calories instead of storing them as fat.

In addition, it’s important to understand the role of serotonin. At least 90 percent of this natural appetite suppressor originates from your digestive system, along with vital fat burning hormones.

So, the solution comes in the form of keeping your digestive system, and the good bacteria in it, happy.

Persist in probiotics

Certain foods facilitate the growth of beneficial bacteria, so it’s important to consume the right balance of nutrients. Below are some foods that benefit the good “bugs” in your intestines.

• Yogurt with live active cultures
• Kefir, a lactose-free yogurt
• Kombucha mushrooms or tea
• Sauerkraut
• Sourdough bread Fermented foods and items rich in probiotics help promote a balance in your gut and keep the bad bacteria or “gut bugs” at manageable levels. This balance, in turn, helps your body metabolize calories and even avoid sickness and other health issues.

Have healthy fats

The best way to lose weight isn’t necessarily cutting out fats entirely. The human body needs certain fats to function and heal itself, so stick with fats from the following sources:

• Avocados
• Anchovies and sardines (fish oil)
• Grass fed butter
• Coconut oil
• Almonds and other nuts

  Some researchers even say to consume healthy fats as 60-70 percent of your daily calorie intake. Be sure to combine these foods with whole grains, complex proteins, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. The best thing to do is to consult a trusted health professional to assess how your body’s gut microbiome reacts and then create a customized nutrition plan from there. Stay mindful of mindfulness

More than just a catchy term, mindfulness could be the key to your health. Cortisol, a fat-storing hormone, decreases with regular and relaxing meditation. Mindfulness and some simple planning can also allow you to create a meal plan that could lead to less eating out and more clean eating.

In some cases, mindfulness has even been shown to reduce insulin resistance. So whether you need more peaceful time to yourself or just want to start some healthy habits, mindfulness and meditation are a great place to start.

Be better

Swimsuit season might be stressing you out, but your body’s health is what really matters. Now you can remedy both situations by keeping your gut bacteria at healthy levels. If you want to find more natural ways to lose weight and stay healthy, contact East West Health today.

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