Heart Surgeon Shares Top 5 Gut-Boosting Vegetables for Daily Health

Dr. Steven Gundry, a former heart surgeon and expert in gut health, has outlined the five vegetables he includes in his daily diet to support gut microbiome health, immunity, and long-term well-being.

Dr. Gundry, founder of GundryMD and host of "The Dr. Gundry Podcast," emphasizes the critical role of gut health in regulating bodily functions, from brain activity to immune defense. Based on over 25 years of research in cardiac and restorative medicine, he identifies vegetables high in polyphenols and bitterness as particularly beneficial.

Vegetables | Source: Pexels

1. Cruciferous Vegetables: Vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower are rich in sulfur compounds and aid in postbiotic production. “These are gut superheroes,” said Gundry. He recommends chopping them before cooking to activate cancer-fighting enzymes.

2. Artichokes: Described as a Mediterranean staple, artichokes are high in inulin, a prebiotic fiber, and offer key nutrients such as potassium and magnesium. Gundry highlights the fiber-rich stems and prefers them steamed, sautéed, or raw.

3. Root Vegetables: Options like radishes, onions, garlic, and jicama offer low-sugar, prebiotic-rich choices. He cautions against overconsuming cooked carrots and beets due to sugar release, suggesting raw alternatives instead.

Vegetables | Source: Pexels

4. Chicory and Bitter Greens: Varieties including radicchio and Belgian endive are high in antioxidants and inulin. Gundry favors them raw, even using endive leaves as substitutes for chips.

Gundry encourages readers to consult with healthcare providers before making dietary changes. “You have so much control over your health,” he said, “and it starts with what you decide to put in your body.”