Gut Health Basics: Easy Wins (Without Cutting Everything)

You don’t need a perfect diet for a happier gut. Aim for more plants, more fiber diversity, and a little fermented food most days.

A simple 7-day gut-friendly pattern

  • Daily plants goal: hit 10+ different plants/week (fruit, veg, beans, nuts, seeds, herbs).
  • Fiber upgrade: oats or chia at breakfast; add 1 tsp psyllium with water if needed.
  • Ferment a little: a few forkfuls of sauerkraut or a glass of kefir with meals.
  • Protein with each meal to steady energy and cravings.
  • Ultra-processed foods: don’t panic—just swap one thing at a time for a simpler alternative.

Easy swaps

  • Sugary cereal → oats + nuts + fruit
  • Soda → sparkling water + lemon
  • Creamy sauces → olive oil + herbs + lemon
  • Crisps nightly → mixed nuts a few nights/week

DIY ferments (faster than you think)

  • Kraut: shred cabbage, 2% salt by weight, pack in jar, weight it down, lid on with airlock. Taste from day 5.
  • Kefir: add starter to milk or coconut milk, leave 24h, chill, drink.

Our picks

  • Psyllium husk for a gentle fiber bump.
  • Fermentation weights + lids to make kraut easy.
  • Kefir starter for a daily probiotic drink.

Affiliate note: We may earn a small commission from links above at no extra cost to you. This content is educational and not medical advice.