We absolutely love this time of year. The indulging holiday season; from the savory turkey on Thanksgiving to the bubbly glass (or glasses) of champagne on New Year’s. It is really just a hodgepodge of yummy food and no shame.
Time to do some self reflection...
But once we’re back to work that first week of January, those holiday feels are starting to fade. And I’m sure you can guess what comes next; that warm and fuzzy feeling turns into fatigue and feeling lethargic.
2020 has not made the top years so far, think we can all agree on this. However, we can all agree that 2021 is the best time to get back on track, gut health and all.
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU
When you give a little love to your gut in the form of healthy foods, that ambitious, rowdy sprit will show itself again. Get your gut back in fighting shape for 2021 with a few simple changes to your routine. We promise it will be much easier than you think!
Step 1:
Your mindset is everything! Start and end everyday with an inspirational quote. For example, out moto this year is, “It’s your time to R.O.A.R.” Rise up, Overcome, take Action, Repeat! It takes commitment to follow through on certain goals. We are all about nourishing your body, mind and soul with the proper foods. Specifically, superfoods.
Step 2:
Increase your fiber intake! With all those heavy meals and sugary sweets this season, you have probably been skimping on the fiber. Some fiber rich foods are Rowdy Bars, beans, berries, apples, avocados, whole grains and the list goes on.
Your gut loves fiber. The fiber in the form of prebiotics feeds the good bacteria in your gut so they can do their job better and help you fend off sickness welcomed by imbalanced gut flora. Fiber and prebiotics also help your gut digest food more easily and aid in regular digestion. A healthy microbiome is a happy microbiome.
Step 3:
Incorporate prebiotics and probiotics into your daily routine. Rowdy Bars offers 5 yummy flavors that are filled with a healthy dose of PREbiotics, thanks to our sweet superfood ingredient, yacon root!
Probiotics can improve overall health, including your mood! The new year is always a great time to start on goals because you are feeling fresh and excited, so why not capitalize on that by eating rich superfoods to help improve that mood.
Probiotics work best when paired with prebiotics since prebiotics act as food for probiotics. Together they promote the production of good bacteria in your gut.
Step 4:
Experiment with different food groups, cleanses and vitamins.
Cleanse
Sometimes the best thing you can do for your gut is to give it a break entirely. Try a cleanse. Depending on your body and you can incorporate different types of cleanses, which can be an excellent way to start fresh and allow your body to do some deep cellular cleansing without being occupied with digestion. Whether you choose to commit to a 7-day cleanse, try intermittent fasting, or stick to fluids for a few days, there are plenty of options to choose from. Cleanses aren’t for everyone, so do your research before committing to a cleanse.
Polyphenols
Another tip to help kick start your “new year, new you,” goals is to eat foods, such as, cloves, star anise, cocoa powder, dried Mexican oregano, flaxseed, dark chocolate, black elderberry, sage, rosemary, and thyme. These foods contain polyphenols. Polyphenols search for bad bacteria and take em’ out! They fight that bad bacteria which will help your gut get back on track.
Vitamins
When it comes to reviving your gut, cover all bases. Replenish your body of essential nutrients and minerals that may be lacking from the not so whole foods we indulge in during the holidays. A daily multi-vitamin should do the trick!
A Superfood Called Turmeric
While turmeric is a well-known versatile superfood commonly loved for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric also promotes gut health. Turmeric increases stomach mucus, which helps prevent damage against stomach acid and irritants. So, if your stomach is still turning from too much holiday treats, turmeric can help simmer your gut down.
Can’t Forget Antioxidants
Antioxidants like vitamin C and E help reduce gut irritation and relieve symptoms associated with Crohn’s Disease. Show up for your gut and eat plenty of berries, nuts and dark leafy greens. Not to mention Rowdy Bars Blueberry Almond Tart Bar is a perfect addition to make sure you’re getting a healthy dose of antioxidants.
Step 5:
Take control and remember to stay #committed to your “new year, new you,” goals! Motivation comes and goes, but commitment is what will get you through.
Happy 2021 #ROWDIES