How Moroccan Food can Support your Gut Health
To many, it is unknown that gut health is fundamental to our general health. Having a healthy gut contributes to a strong immune system, heart health, brain health, improved moods, good sleeping patterns, effective digestion, and it may even 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 choices for overall health and well-being. Moroccan food centers around fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, pulses and grains, and dried fruits 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 in digestion and absorption.
Meat and chicken aren’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 processed, so it is still considered healthier in comparison to that in the UK. Leben, the Moroccan version of Kefir, is really only consumed on Fridays with couscous to aid digestion. Tagines are perfect as you can eat them with little or no bread, not to mention the endless 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 mountains of bread and to 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.
