05/15/2025
Gut-Friendly Power Salad: A Fiber-Rich Recipe to Feed Your Microbiome
by Michelle Pearlman, MD â Gastroenterologist, Obesity Medicine Specialist & Co-Founder of ByteMDÂŽ
At ByteMDÂŽ, we believe that real food is your best medicineâespecially when it comes to supporting your gut. Todayâs recipe is a simple, delicious, and nutrient-dense salad that does more than just satisfy hunger. It feeds the trillions of microbes living in your gutâthe ones that influence everything from digestion and mood to metabolism and immune health.
Whatâs in the Bowl?
This fiber-forward salad is layered with:
⢠Organic mixed greens â loaded with insoluble fiber to help move things along in the gut.
⢠Sprouts â a powerhouse of antioxidants and prebiotics, which act as fuel for your beneficial gut bacteria.
⢠Cucumber slices â hydrating and refreshing, great for satiety and volume without excess calories.
⢠Chickpeas â plant-based protein and soluble fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol.
⢠Sliced avocado â rich in monounsaturated fats and a surprising source of fiber (yes, one avocado has ~10g of fiber!).
⢠Cauliflower rice (hidden underneath) â extra bulk, flavor, and fiber without spiking your blood sugar.
Why Fiber Matters
Fiber isnât just about regularity (though yes, it helps with that too). Dietary fiberâespecially from diverse plant sourcesâfeeds your microbiome. The more diverse your plant intake, the more diverse your gut bacteria, which is associated with reduced inflammation, healthier weight regulation, and improved mood and cognition.
Your gut bacteria ferment fiber into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which strengthen your gut barrier, lower systemic inflammation, and even influence your hormonal balance and cravings.
How Much Fiber Do You Need?
Most people are getting less than 15 grams of fiber a day, but research shows we need much more for optimal gut and metabolic health:
⢠Women: At least 25 grams/day
⢠Men: Aim for 30â38 grams/day
This salad alone clocks in at around 15â18 grams depending on portion sizesâmaking it a powerful start toward your daily fiber goal.
Final Thoughts: Food > Fiber Supplements
Before reaching for Metamucil, consider this: a colorful, whole-food plate like this provides not only fiber, but also polyphenols, micronutrients, and healthy fatsâall of which synergize to promote long-term gut health and metabolic balance.
Hungry for more gut-friendly meals?
Head to ByteMD.app for high-fiber recipes, microbiome-friendly product picks, and simple strategies to feel your bestâstarting in your gut.
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