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Heal your gut now or wait for future medical solutions?

A team from Harvard University has come up with a spray on “bandage” for the gut, using the patient's own good bacteria in a gel form.

Engadget reported that the engineered bacteria can be grown in a lab, and then added to syringes or sprays to be introduced to intestinal wounds and start their healing work.

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But wait, don’t get too excited about an instant cure for your gut problems. The innovation has only been tested on animals, so it could take a while before it’s approved for humans. In the meantime, why not repair your gut now through a more natural course of action — mainly nutrition?

There is a direct link between your brain and your gut. Your gastrointestinal tract is one of the most complex microbial ecosystems on earth and is often referred to as your “second brain."

Nearly 100 trillion bacteria, fungi, viruses and other microorganisms compose your gut microbiome, and advancing science has made it quite clear that these organisms play a major role in your health, both mental and physical.

The foods you eat can heal or harm your digestive health.

Avoid heavily processed, genetically modified, sugar-rich and fast foods as well as antibiotics, unless absolutely necessary, antibacterial soap, chlorinated and/or fluoridated water, agricultural chemicals, glyphosate (Roundup) in particular, and conventionally-raised meats and other animal products.

By cleaning up your diet and adding some digestive superfoods you could heal your gut and avoid the necessity of a futuristic gel gut bandage. Here are 10 of the best digestive superfoods:

  1. Aloe vera — This fresh gel is rich in enzymes, has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties and is a powerful anti-inflammatory.
  2. Bone broth — Incredibly healing to your gut and easily digested, bone broth also contains profound immune-optimizing components in the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
  3. Fermented vegetables — Fermented foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi, detoxify and are excellent at optimizing your gut flora. They contain high levels of antioxidants, fiber and beneficial bacteria (more even than probiotic supplements).
  4. Kefir and coconut kefir — Both are rich in probiotics and enzymes to promote healthy bacterial balance which is necessary for proper gut health.
  5. Flaxseed tea — Make this simple tea by pouring 12 ounces of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of flax seeds and then let it steep overnight and drain the seeds out before drinking. It contains omega-3 fats, soluble fiber and lignans, which are anti-inflammatory and have a lubricating effect.
  6. Red cabbage — Rich in the amino acid L-glutamine, known for its gut-healing powers, red cabbage is especially helpful for people with leaky gut, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Eat it steamed, juiced, or, perhaps best of all, fermented.
  7. Chlorella — A fresh water algae, chlorella promotes healthy pH levels in your gut, which helps good bacteria to thrive. It's also a potent detox agent for mercury and other heavy metals.
  8. Moringa — Sometimes described as the "miracle tree," the moringa leaves are packed with protein, calcium, beta carotene, vitamin C, potassium and more.
  9. Psyllium — While your best source of dietary fiber comes from vegetables, most people simply aren't eating enough veggies, so add some psyllium to your diet.
  10. Chia Seeds — With about 10 grams of fiber in just 2 tablespoons, chia seeds are rich in anti-inflammatory phytochemicals for soothing gastrointestinal distress.