8 Healthy Swaps To Support Your Gut This Festive Season
Though we often associate the festive season with joy and celebration - let's face it, there's a bit of overindulgence too.
So, amongst the holiday feasts and treats, it's important to watch out for your gut health. Why, you ask? Because a happy gut means a happier and healthier you.
Don’t worry, we’ve made the process even easier for you. Below, we’ve listed eight easy swaps you can make to support your gut during this time. Enjoy!
Why Does Gut Health Matter?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s briefly chat about why gut health is such a big deal.
At first glance, you might think that the gut is only responsible for digesting your food, but this is only scratching the surface. It’s also the centre for trillions of microorganisms (the microbiome) that play crucial roles in nutrient absorption, immune function, mental health, and your overall well being.
Since our microbiome looks after so many aspects of our health, it’s important we take the time to look after and nourish it - especially over the holiday season.
Now, let's get down to business!
8 Healthy Swaps To Support Your Gut This Festive Season
Are you looking for simple ways to nourish your gut this holiday season? We’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve listed eight healthy swaps you can make for the sake of your gut health.
1. Swap Soda For PERKii Sparkling
This summer, say ‘farewell’ to those sugary sodas that wreak havoc on your gut's delicate balance. Instead, choose something lighter and more gut-friendly - like PERKii's Sparkling range.
Bottled with one billion bifidobacterium probiotics, these fizzy beverages won’t just tantalise your taste buds but they’ll also contribute to a happy gut.
Not to mention, they’re only 45 calories, naturally flavoured, and there’s two fruity flavours to choose from - Orange Mango Passionfruit & Watermelon Mint Cucumber.
2. Use Avocado Instead Of Butter
Avocado isn't just a trendy toast topper - it's a nutritional powerhouse, packed with unsaturated (healthy) fats, vitamin e, soluble fibre, and a variety of essential minerals.
These humble superfoods are great for boosting satiety, supporting weight loss, and promoting the health of your heart, eyes, brain, and more.
If you’re looking for ways to add more avocado into your diet this Summer, swap out butter on your sandwiches or toast. It'll add that creamy texture that you’re chasing, as well as a variety of nutrients to nourish and support your gut health.
3. Create Gut-Friendly Mocktails
For anyone looking to skip the alcohol-laden cocktails this year, consider whipping up some gut-friendly mocktails instead.
Try blending fruits with a splash PERKii's Sparkling Probiotic drinks for a refreshing beverage that'll please both your palate and your gut. And don’t forget to garnish with dried fruits or herbs.
4. Replace Artificial Sweeteners With Natural Alternatives
Although artificial sweeteners might seem like the guilt-free option, they have a nasty habit of disrupting your gut flora.
Instead, try natural alternatives to satisfy your sweet tooth without upsetting your gut health - like honey or maple syrup.
5. Ditch Coffee, Try Perkii’s Fruit Probiotic Smoothies
While an early-morning cup of coffee might be the pick-me-up your body needs, try to avoid going overboard with it.
Excessive caffeine intake has a tendency to irritate the gut in many ways. Instead, flip this routine on its head and kick-start your day with a gut-nourishing PERKii Probiotic Smoothie.
There’s a lot to love about these particular beverages. Not only are they bottled with billions of probiotics, but they’re also made from real fruit. They don’t contain anything artificial, there’s no added sugar, and they’re completely lactose-free.
Choose between two delicious flavours - the Mango Coconut Smoothie or the Banana Smoothie.
6. Swap Red Meats With Lean Proteins
Another great way to support your gut health over the holidays would be to make the switch from red meats to leaner protein options.
Chicken, fish, and tofu tend to be much easier on your digestive system. They provide all the essential nutrients your body requires, without that added strain on your gut.
7. Opt For Healthier Fats Instead Of Saturated Fats
Those saturated fats found in fried or processed foods often contribute to inflammation in your gut. Instead, consider embracing those healthier, unsaturated fat sources - such as avocado, nuts and seeds.
These simple foods aren’t only great to snack on, but they’ll also enhance your recipes with essential nutrients to support a balanced gut microbiome.
8. Eat Less Sugary Snacks, and More Fresh Fruits
It’s too easy to reach for those sugary treats during the holiday celebrations, but overindulging won’t do your microbiome any favours.
Instead, practise mindful eating to ensure you don’t go overboard. If you’re still craving something sweet, enjoy some fresh fruits - such as berries, bananas, apples, and oranges.
They won’t only satisfy your sweet tooth, but they’ll also nourish your gut with fibre and essential vitamins.
These mindful swaps can be your guide to ensuring your gut health thrives this holiday season - making the celebrations all the more enjoyable. Happy holidays!
*The information in this article should be considered as advice only. Before using probiotics or implementing any of the information above, speak with your healthcare professional.
