Gut health has become a hot topic, and for good reason. “Your gut contains trillions of microorganisms, which include bacteria and fungi,” says Dena Champion, MS, RD, LD, CNSC, an OSUCCC – James outpatient oncology dietitian. “The goal is to have a healthy microbiome environment, which means a higher percentage of beneficial bacteria versus the not-so-beneficial bacteria.” A healthy gut environment boosts the body’s immune system, while an unhealthy environment has been linked to a variety of health issues, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes and irritable bowel syndrome. With guidance from Champion, let’s take a look at the signs of poor gut health, ways to improve it and what patients with cancer need to know. Symptoms of bad gut health Symptoms can vary from person to person but can include gas, bloating, constipation, upset stomach and diarrhea. “People who tend to get sick quite often and always seem to be fighting a cold or virus could have issues stemming from poor gut microbiomes,” Champion says. A poor gut diet The foods that people, especially those with digestive problems, should avoid or limit include animal products, saturated fats and processed sugar. “There’s no such thing as a perfect diet, and you can eat some of these things in moderation,” Champion says. “It’s important to focus on making the majority of what you eat heavy on plant-based foods.” A good gut diet There are numerous health benefits of plant-based diets full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and good gut health is high on that list. “This is the fuel for good gut bacteria,” Champion says, adding that when she consults with a James patient, she tends to focus on the healthy, plant-based foods each person likes. “Let’s talk about how we can add more healthful foods to your diet instead of focusing on taking foods away. For example, if someone likes a big salad, I’ll ask them what vegetables they like, and then we’ll talk about how to prepare those things in advance — pre-wash, chop and roast — so everything’s ready to go for the week.” Beyond our control Some causes of poor gut health can be beyond your control. “Age and genetics can be a factor,” Champion says. “Medications can also be an issue. For example, the antibiotics a person needs can sometimes also kill some of the good bacteria in their digestive system. This is another reason why a healthful, plant-based diet is important.” For cancer patients For patients in treatment for cancer who are able to maintain normal diets, plant-based eating has a long list of advantages, including good gut health and helping the body’s immune system work effectively. However, many patients in the midst of cancer treatment have difficulties with eating. “It’s important not to make a patient in treatment feel guilty if they can’t eat a plate full of vegetables,” Champion says. “It may not be realistic for someone to eat this type of diet, and if all they can handle is a smoothie, that’s fine. They should be encouraged to eat whatever they can tolerate best.” Every James patient has access to a dietitian, Champion says, and this means each patient can work with that expert to determine the diet that’s best for them. Probiotics Probiotic products are becoming more and more common, as are their advertisements and claims. “People want a quick fix, but when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is,” Champion says, adding that a diverse, plant-based diet is still the best course. “Before taking a probiotic, I recommend talking to your primary care physician or a dietitian. They’re not all equal, and it can be complex and hard to determine which one is best for you. Some probiotic supplements and yogurt, for example, contain live bacteria, but your stomach acid may degrade them and destroy much of the bacteria. A pill is not a replacement for a healthy diet.”