Nourish Your Gut: Simple Everyday Practices
In a recent conversation with a 17-year-old athlete, we talked about something that matters for all of us: how to care for our gut health in everyday life. I realized the list we came up with is too good not to share.
Here are some simple, long-term practices that support digestion and overall well-being:
Eat fermented foods—think sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, or other fermented veggies.
Add bone broth or soups made from animal bones.
Eat the rainbow—different colors = different phytonutrients.
Focus on fiber—rotate nuts, seeds, beans, and vegetables for a broad nutrient base.
Try digestive bitters or a splash of apple cider vinegar to support digestion.
Remember: hydrochloric acid (which helps break down food) naturally declines with age. Vegetarians, in particular, may benefit from supplementing with B-complex and possibly hydrochloric acid.
Start small and be consistent. Choose one or two of these practices, try them most days for two weeks, and watch for signs of progress—less bloating, steadier energy, more regular digestion. Your gut thrives on rhythm and diversity, not perfection, so build gradually.
As with all of my posts, this is for informational and educational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for individualized medical advice—please consult your clinician before making any changes to your diet, supplements, or training.