In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of prebiotics and probiotics, with a special focus on the trendy probiotic sodas that are taking the market by storm. Join us as we explore the definitions, benefits, and practical applications of these gut health powerhouses. Learn how incorporating these elements into your diet can enhance your digestive health, boost your immune system, improve your mental well-being, and aid in weight management.

Key Points Discussed:

1. Definition of Prebiotics and Probiotics:

   • Prebiotics: Non-digestible food components that promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the intestines.
   • Probiotics: Live beneficial bacteria naturally found in fermented foods and supplements.

2. How Prebiotics Work:

   • Examples of Prebiotic Foods: Garlic, onions, bananas, asparagus, whole grains.
   • Mechanism: Prebiotics feed and promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.

3. How Probiotics Work:

   • Examples of Probiotic Foods: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi.
   • Mechanism: Probiotics add beneficial bacteria to the gut microbiome.

4. Importance of Gut Health:

   • Gut Microbiome Overview: Brief overview of the gut microbiome and its impact on overall health.
   • Digestive Health: Improved digestion, prevention of diarrhea, and relief from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
   • Immune System: Enhanced immune response and reduced risk of infections.
   • Mental Health: Potential effects on reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
   • Weight Management: Role in maintaining a healthy weight.

5. How to Incorporate Them Into Your Diet:

   • Practical Tips: Adding prebiotic and probiotic foods to daily meals.
   • Supplement Recommendations: How to choose supplements if necessary.

6. Research on Prebiotic Beverages:

   • Gut Microbiota Enhancement: Prebiotic beverages promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, improving digestion and reducing gastrointestinal issues.
   • Immune System Support: Prebiotic beverages enhance the immune response and reduce the incidence and duration of common colds and respiratory infections.
   • Appetite Regulation: Consumption of prebiotic beverages can help regulate appetite and support weight control by lowering levels of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
   • Mental Health Benefits: Prebiotic consumption can reduce anxiety and improve mood through the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and modulation of neurotransmitter levels.
   • Caution: Consuming more than 30 grams of prebiotics may increase inflammation. It's essential to listen to your body and adjust intake accordingly.

7. Practical Advice on Prebiotic Beverages:

   • Supplement Form: Consider supplements like Sunfiber, which can be added to beverages such as Polar Joe.
   • Considerations for Kids: Monitor the amount of prebiotics to avoid overconsumption.
   • Biofeedback: Pay attention to your body's responses and adjust your diet as needed.

Conclusion: Prebiotic and probiotic foods and beverages are a convenient and effective way to boost gut health and overall well-being. With ongoing research, we continue to uncover the long-term benefits and optimal ways to incorporate these elements into our daily lives.

Want to learn more? Tune into the FREE Biofeedback Boss Workshop!

Cheers, and happy eating!

Jess

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tara Landen, a 40-year-old wife, mother of two amazing girls, daughter, friend, and faith driven woman. Over the past three years, Tara's life has been profoundly impacted by her journey with the autoimmune disease Alopecia. Despite the physical, emotional, and mental challenges, Tara has found strength and grace through her faith.

Join us as we delve into Tara's incredible journey of redefining beauty beyond physical appearances. Tara shares how she has come to embrace a deeper sense of confidence rooted in the kind of woman she is, specifically through her faith. This transformation has not only shaped her perspective but also influenced how she raises her two daughters.

Key Discussion Points:

• Tara's Journey with Alopecia: The impact of Alopecia on Tara's life, beyond just the physical changes, and how it has challenged and ultimately strengthened her emotional and mental state.
• Redefining Beauty: How Tara has expanded her definition of beauty to be more than skin deep, focusing on her character and faith.
• Finding Confidence in Faith: The role of faith in helping Tara navigate her journey, and how she has learned to radiate a deeper sense of confidence.
• Parenting with Purpose: Tara's approach to raising her daughters with an emphasis on inner beauty and self-confidence.
• Embracing Change: Tara's perspective on leaning into stress and embracing body changes with confidence and faith, offering valuable insights for anyone struggling with changes in their own body.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever struggled with changes in their body or self-image. Tara's story is a testament to the power of faith and inner strength. Her journey offers hope and inspiration, encouraging us all to look beyond the superficial and embrace the beauty within.

Connect with Tara Landen: @Taraklanden

Subscribe & Leave a Review: Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Your feedback helps us continue to bring you inspiring content.

Want to learn more about empowered eating?

Connect with Jess on a free discovery call or check out the FREE Empowered Eating Masterclass.

Cheers and happy eating!

Jess

Hey friends, I'm so excited for you to sit in on this conversation today with my new friend Caroline Shermer, RD. Caroline is a registered dietitian and fellow eating disorder specialist, and today she will be joining me as we discuss the topic of emotional eating.

I believe emotional eating gets such a bad rap in our culture, and because of this, we are left with so many questions we don't have answers to on how to tackle emotional eating in our own lives. So, today, we'll be addressing emotional eating and answering the questions of: why it's not always such a bad thing, how to best manage it, and what to do to prevent it from getting out of control.

Connect with Caroline:

Website: meanttoeat.com

Instagram: @meanttoeat

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Free Biofeedback Workshop

Cheers, and happy eating!

Jess