5 Common Foodborne Illnesses and How to Protect Your Gut Health

5 Common Foodborne Illnesses

1. Salmonella

Salmonella is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness. It’s often found in raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Cook meat and eggs thoroughly.
• Avoid consuming unpasteurized dairy products.
• Wash your hands and kitchen surfaces after handling raw foods.

2. E. coli

1. coli bacteria can contaminate a variety of foods, including raw vegetables, undercooked ground beef, and unpasteurized juice. Infections can cause severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Wash all fruits and vegetables before eating.
• Cook beef to the recommended temperature.
• Avoid cross-contamination in the kitchen by using separate cutting boards for meat and produce.

3. Listeria

Listeria is commonly associated with deli meats, soft cheeses, and unpasteurized dairy. It can be especially harmful to pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Refrigerate perishable foods promptly.
• Avoid raw milk and products made from it.
• Heat deli meats and hot dogs until steaming before eating.

4. Norovirus

Often referred to as the “stomach flu,” norovirus spreads quickly through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. It causes symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating.
• Rinse fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
• Disinfect surfaces that come into contact with food.

5. Campylobacter

Campylobacter is typically found in raw or undercooked poultry. It can lead to diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Cook poultry to the recommended internal temperature.
• Wash hands, utensils, and cutting boards after handling raw chicken.
• Avoid drinking untreated water.

How Foodborne Illnesses Impact Gut Health

Digestive system disruptions caused by foodborne illnesses can lead to:

• Imbalance in gut bacteria: Harmful pathogens can reduce the diversity of beneficial bacteria in your gut.
• Inflammation: Prolonged illness can cause irritation in the digestive tract.
• Nutrient deficiencies: Poor absorption of nutrients during illness can affect your overall health.

Tips to Protect and Restore Gut Health

1. Probiotics

Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables to replenish beneficial gut bacteria.

2. Hydration

Stay hydrated to support digestion and flush out toxins. Electrolyte-rich beverages can be helpful during and after illness.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Add foods like ginger, turmeric, and leafy greens to your diet to reduce inflammation and support gut healing.

4. Consult Professionals

Services like digestive supplementation or IV therapy offered by Ageless Regenerative Medical can help restore gut balance and boost recovery.

Why Choose Ageless Regenerative Medical?

At Ageless Regenerative Medical, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy gut. Our tailored services, including probiotics, digestive support, and IV therapy, help you recover and feel your best.

Why Patients Trust Us:

• Personalized care for digestive health
• Cutting-edge regenerative medicine services
• Expert team dedicated to your wellness

Safeguard Your Gut Health

Understanding foodborne illnesses and taking proactive measures can protect your digestive system and overall wellness. Schedule an appointment with Ageless Regenerative Medical or call 615-678-7784 to explore how we can support your gut health journey.