Happy-Belly Foods to Boost Your Immunity, According to Science

Follow your gut to these healthy foods! By Michele Promaulayko Your stomach is more than a body part that nags you when you're hungry and scolds you when you've overfed it. Located in your large intestine, your gut is actually home to a complex system known as the "microbiome." The gut microbiome contains trillions of microorganisms, including good bacteria, that influence many biological functions such as digestion, brain health, and immune system regulation. In fact, as much as [70 percent of immune function]( is thought to originate in your gut, which is why it's critical to care for the microbiome so it can help support your immunity. A few important things to know: Though there is research to support that eating foods and taking supplements that support a healthy microbiome can offer protection from viral respiratory infections, their impact on COVID-19 hasn't been studied specifically. That said, health experts such as [Frank Lipman, MD](, Chief Medical Officer of THE WELL, maintain that, at the very least, having a strong immune system can help mitigate the systems of most infections and help you recover more quickly. The foods you eat strengthen your microbiome in three different ways: by feeding the good bacteria in the gut (prebiotics), bringing your existing beneficial bacteria some reinforcements ([probiotics](), or by healing and strengthening the mucosal lining, [which new research]( shows can ward off inflammation. Start to nourish your gut microbiome and support your immune response in the process by adding the following foods to your grocery list. [READ THE FULL ARTICLE]( Latest Grocery & Healthy Eating News - One of our editors figured out how to make the creamiest box of macaroni and cheese thanks to [this secret ingredient](. - The CDC is investigating a mysterious [E. coli outbreak]( that has caused 16 illnesses, nine hospitalizations, and one death across five states. - New York, New Jersey, or Michigan likely come to mind when you're asked to name the state with the best pizza. But, there's [another East Coast state]( that wants to claim pizza as its own. - Coming off of a successful end to 2020, this popular [fast-food chain]( just announced a major expansion with 200 new locations planned to open this year. What's In Our Cart? The Super Bowl may look slightly different amid a pandemic, but you can still plan to enjoy all of your favorite snacks from the comfort of your couch. For many Americans, food is the MVP of the night—but that doesn't mean you have to let temptation pull you astray from reaching your health and weight-loss goals. Below are some healthy grocery store picks for game day. [19 HEALTHIEST SUPER BOWL SNACKS TO BUY]( What To Cook This Week Healthy Steak Nachos Get ready for game day the healthy way! This recipe for steak nachos uses a spicy cheese sauce (which actually saves calories), a good amount of salsa, and plenty of fixings to deliver a high-flavor, low-calorie plate of goodness. What you’ll need: Skirt or flank steak, chili powder, butter, flour, low-sodium chicken stock, shredded Jack cheese, salsa verde, tortilla chips, pinto beans, jalapeño pepper, red onion, roma tomatoes, cilantro, salt & pepper [GET THE RECIPE]( [About]( [Contact Us]( [FAQs]( [Privacy Policy]( [Terms & Conditions]( [Preferences]( © 2021 Galvanized Media, All Rights Reserved.