Since scientists found that the gut functions as a second brain, there’s been a considerable push toward getting guts tamed. Without a proper balance of the ecosystem that exists there, it leads to countless problems that go well beyond the ordinary everyday ailments.

Your gut has good and bad bacteria, and it’s essential to get the good bacteria in balance so that you don’t experience any painful or uncomfortable side effects. Stress and lack of sleep also make for trouble in the gut, but there are some simple tips you can follow to help improve your gut health day by day.

– Go whole, unprocessed, and unrefined

Start by making most of your plate — fill it with colorful vegetables and plant-based ingredients. These high-fiber foods are among the best to nourish your good gut bacteria, and this is a step you can take with each meal you eat.

– Munch on more fat

Good fat, that is! Things that have omega-3 and monounsaturated fats help reduce inflammation so that healthy bacteria can grow in numbers. Think high-quality extra virgin olive oil and avocados.

– Round out your nutrients with supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids are an important part of your diet and gut health. Some people turn their nose up at fish, while others have dietary restrictions. If that sounds like you, make sure you get the things you need via high-quality supplements. They come from wild-caught fish, but if you’re not eating it for whatever reason, you should find a supplement that ensures you get it. Ask your doctor for a high-quality brand recommendation.

– Start craving coconut

Coconut oil and coconut butter both contain MCT oils that help fight inflammation and can be beneficial in losing weight. These are easy to add to nearly any recipe without changing the flavor, so make these a part of your daily routine as often as possible.

– Get rid of bad fats

While good fats help your gut health, the bad fats are doing harm. Ditch the vegetable oils high in Omega-6 fatty acids, and swap them out for the good stuff with coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil. This simple switch reaps noticeable benefits.

– Make more room for fiber

Fiber makes you feel fuller longer, and also gives your gut prebiotics, which helps feed that good bacteria. Go for more nuts and seeds, and you’ll be on the right path.

– Fall in love with fermented foods

Kimchi is a tradtional dish made of spicy, fermented cabbage that frequently accompanies many meals in the Korean cuisine. If you can’t stand the spice, go for sauerkraut, miso, or tempeh to help get your good bacteria in your gut multiplying.

It’s important to note that you won’t suddenly get rid of any gut issues you have, but if you begin by taking daily steps toward a healthier gut, you will surely enhance your well-being along the way. Be sure to get with your doctor to monitor any health conditions you have and get in the best health of your life with a little help from your gut!