Why “Good” & “Bad” Foods Could Be Hurting Your Gut-Brain Health
“I saw it on Tik Tok”.
In today’s world, it’s all too common to hear foods labeled as “good” and “bad”. To be told to avoid certain foods or entire food groups at all cost because it’ll wreak havoc on your body. This black-and-white thinking has led to fear-mongering around certain foods, driving people to cut them out entirely, causing stress and frustration. But here’s the truth: food isn’t inherently good or bad.
Our bodies, specifically our gut health, thrive on balance and variety. Just as our immune system needs exposure to different bacteria to function properly, our gut benefits from a diverse diet that includes all food groups- yes, even those that have been unfairly demonized.
The Problem with Labeling Foods “Good” or “Bad”
When we start categorizing foods as strictly good or bad, we not only create unnecessary anxiety around eating but also rob our bodies of the balance they need to maintain a healthy gut. Our gut microbiome, the complex community of bacteria living in our digestive tract, relies on a variety of nutrients to function properly.
Rather than fearing certain foods, it’s essential to recognize that balance and quality is key. Many foods that are often demonized- dairy, red meats, legumes, and even grains- can be consumed without wreaking havoc on the gut. In fact, completely eliminating these foods can lead to a less diverse gut microbiome as well as nutrient deficiencies.
The goal shouldn’t be to avoid certain foods entirely, but to understand how to incorporate them into a balanced diet that supports your unique health needs.
Your Gut is Unique-So Should Be Your DIet
One size does not fit all when it comes to nutrition. Each person’s gut microbiome is unique, shaped by factors like genetics, environment, and lifestyle. This means that the same food might affect two people in entirely different ways.
That’s why it’s important to avoid blanket statements about what’s “good” and “bad” for everyone. Instead, focus on learning about your body and its individual needs, which may require trial and error, and/or lab testing.
The Importance of Educating Yourself
Fear-mongering about “good” and “bad” foods can do more harm than good for not only your unique body’s needs, but your mental health. I personally know of the stress and paranoia I experienced a few years when I fell into the trap of restrictive eating. I remember allowing myself “cheat days” just to binge and feel the guilt. So making sure you find balance and moderation is key.
It’s also really important to educate yourself on the ingredients in your food as the world we live in is quick to spread misinformation and incorrect science. (It seem like everything is bad for us)
Understand what you’re putting in your body-and why-empowers you to make choices that truly benefit your health, rather than following trends or succumbing to fear-mongering. By educating yourself, you can build a balanced, nourishing diet and lifestyle that supports a healthy gut and overall well-being.