We often hear about the gut and brain connection, but we tend to forget that the microbiota of the human gastrointestinal tract actually starts in the mouth. (1) The mouth is the gateway to the body, and everything you eat and drink directly impacts the oral microbiome—even before it affects the gut.
When the oral microbiome is unbalanced, harmful bacteria are allowed to proliferate and potentially cause cavities, bad breath, and gingivitis. And this is before the oral bacteria travels to the rest of the body, where it can negatively impact overall health. In fact, research shows that there’s a 45% overlap of bacteria between the mouth and the colon.
Now that we know the oral microbiome plays a huge role in our overall health, why not fuel it with the right foods? Insert my Microbiome Omelet, which I developed to feed the good oral bacteria and prevent dysbiosis, or imbalance.
Even better, this omelet recipe is completely free of any ingredients that would feed bad bacteria.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s included in this recipe, and the benefits they offer:
Serrano peppers: Serranos contain capsaicin, the compound that gives the peppers their spice factor and anti-inflammatory properties. (2) And in relation to the microbiome, a recent study found that capsaicin can prevent microbial dysbiosis. (3)
Shiitake mushrooms: Shiitakes are rich in vitamins and minerals, including niacin, vitamin B6, and pantothenic acid. Additionally, research has shown that shiitake mushrooms have antimicrobial effects that can lower the amount of gingivitis-causing bacteria in the oral microbiome, while still protecting beneficial bacteria. (4)
Leeks: Leeks help fight inflammation and infection and are a great source of vitamins K and A. They also contain prebiotics that feed beneficial bacteria and help to balance the microbiome. (5)
Cilantro: Cilantro has detoxifying and antibacterial compounds that can help balance the oral microbiome. (6)
Ghee: Packed with fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, E and K, ghee can help reduce leaky gut (which is often related to an imbalance in the oral microbiome) and IBS symptoms.
Hungry yet? Let’s get to the recipe!
The Mouth-Body Connection: 6 Ways Oral Health Impacts Overall Health[tasty-recipe id=”19008″]