Dr. Monty Lyman, an expert from Oxford University, shares 3 tips for taking care of intestinal health, thereby helping to prolong life. Recent studies on the gut microbiome are opening up new perspectives on the human body. Dr. Monty Lyman, a researcher at Oxford University and author of the book The Immune Mind, emphasized that the intestinal microbiota plays a key role in training the immune system, helping to differentiate between friend and foe. This, in turn, helps prevent chronic inflammation – a leading cause of many long-term symptoms and diseases.
The recent discovery of lymphatic vessels in the meninges has demonstrated a direct connection between the immune system and the brain, shedding new insights into the anatomical structure and the presence of immune cells in the brain. Dr. Lyman believes that this newfound knowledge will provide a more holistic view of health, asserting that every mental health issue has a physical component and vice versa. He emphasizes that healthy eating is pivotal for improving intestinal health.
Dr. Lyman describes caring for the gut microbiome as tending to a community within ourselves. Every meal, even when eaten alone, is essentially a communal meal. He shares 3 methods for nurturing a healthy gut microbiome for both mind and body, including intestinal care, making your own sauerkraut, and taking more time to rest.
In terms of intestinal care, Dr. Lyman likens tending to the gut microbiome to gardening, where he nourishes the bacterial community by eating the right amount of food. He highlights dietary fiber as vital for fostering the bacterial community living in the intestinal mucosa. Fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, and seeds act as prebiotics, promoting a diverse and healthy bacterial community. On the other hand, fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha tea are probiotics, containing live bacteria that support gut health.
Moreover, after studying the benefits of fermented foods, Dr. Lyman decided to make sauerkraut himself. Research from Stanford University in 2021 has shown that consuming fermented foods can increase gut microbial diversity and reduce markers of inflammation. Recognizing that some may not have enough bacteria to digest the recommended daily amount of fiber, he suggests gradually increasing fiber intake and incorporating probiotic-rich foods into the diet. By crafting his own sauerkraut with cabbage, salt, and thyme, Dr. Lyman not only created a delicious dish but also contributed to improving his gut health.
Lastly, Dr. Lyman emphasizes the importance of taking more time to rest. He has become more intentional about eliminating stressors from his life, even relinquishing certain plans and projects. By doing so, he aims to safeguard his health from the negative effects of chronic stress, a significant contributor to long-term inflammation.