To many, it is unknown that gut health is fundamental to our general health. Having a healthy gut helps to have a strong immune system, heart, brain health, improved moods, good sleeping patterns, effective digestion and it even may prevent some cancers and autoimmune diseases. So how do I make sure my gut is healthy? Getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and drinking plenty of water is a good place to start.

Following a Mediterranean diet is one of the best for overall health and well-being. Moroccan food is centred around fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, pulses and grains and dried fruit and nuts. Dairy is typically not eaten daily and butter is rarely  used. Dishes are aromatic and filled with amazing spices such as turmeric, garlic,  ginger and black pepper, all of which have anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion and absorption.  

Meat and chicken isn’t usually eaten every day due to the abundance of fresh fish, seafood and vegetables. However, when chicken is eaten in Morocco, it is not as much processed so is still considered healthier in comparison to here in the UK. Leben is the Moroccan version of Kefir, which is really only consumed on Fridays with couscous to help with digestion. Tagines are perfect as you can eat them with no or little bread and not to mention endless the salads and soups on offer. 

However, Moroccan cuisine is not perfect and for maintaining good gut health you need to be careful to avoid eating the mountains of bread and leave out the high sugar content in teas. As well as cut down on all the yummy Moroccan sweets and replace them with nuts and dates.  

Staying motivated, consistent and patient will result in a healthy gut in the long term.