The 6 Supplements for Digestive health

Maintaining gut health is key to improving overall health and well-being. Besides helping in the digestion and absorption of food, the gut helps in boosting the immune system, regulates mood, aids in maintaining adequate levels of blood sugar, and improves brain health. These gut-boosting supplements improve the gut microbiome, allowing better digestion and protecting the digestive system’s inner lining so it can function adequately. Here are the top research-backed supplements you can use for your digestive health.

1. Collagen Powder

Collagen is a protein found in many areas of our body, providing structural support. Bones, muscles, tissues, and our gut lining require collagen to maintain structural integrity. Although the body is capable of making its collagen, using collagen supplements, especially after the age of 30, can be beneficial as the production of collagen in the body keeps decreasing with increasing age. 

The collagen protein contains essential amino acids like proline, hydroxyproline, and, most importantly, glycine, which is used to make glutathione. Both glycine and glutathione are antioxidants that protect the gut lining from damage and aid in the detoxification process. Besides using collagen, you can use probiotics that we will be discussing later on. You can check the list of the best probiotic brands if you are interested in trying them out. As for collagen, there are tons of options for collagen supplements to choose from. You can add the powder to different foods or drinks as it is tasteless and does not influence the texture.

When buying collagen supplements, ensure the product is sourced from pasture-raised animals to ensure the best quality. Furthermore, avoid buying products that are made from chemicals as most of these supplements are not regulated by the FDA. Consuming gut supplements do indeed help with gut health but should not be taken as a form of therapy or treatment for any medical condition or disease related to the digestive system. Never hesitate to consult your doctor if you are experiencing persistent issues with the digestive system so you can get the best treatment on time. 

2. Probiotics

Simply put, probiotics are microorganisms that live within our gut and assist in digestion. Having a perfect balance of these bacteria is crucial to maintaining gut health. Consuming probiotic-rich foods can replenish probiotics in the gut. However, it can be difficult for some to eat these foods daily, so you can use probiotics in the form of supplements to resolve the problem. Recently, the use of probiotic-rich supplements has skyrocketed due to their effectiveness. As there are a plethora of supplements to choose from, probiotics containing Bifidobacterium and lactobacillus would be a great pick. Although there are many other microorganisms in the probiotics category, the two mentioned above help the most in digestion, reduce inflammation, and protect from a variety of medical conditions and diseases of the gastrointestinal system. 

3. Glutamine

Glutamine is another essential amino acid that is used to repair the internal lining of the intestines. Having adequate gut lining ensures improved digestion and a decrease in intestinal inflammation. Our intestines have tight junction cells that are vital in maintaining the permeability of the intestines. Without appropriate permeability, you can experience medical conditions like leaky gut syndrome that affects digestion. Consuming glutamine in the form of supplements or through glutamine-rich foods can help repair these tight junction cells and maintain the structural integrity of the intestines. 

4. Adaptogens

Almost every organ system in our body is interconnected. An issue with one organ system can affect the functioning of another. Likewise, the brain and digestive tract are connected and can influence each other. Adaptogen-based supplements are quite effective in reducing the levels of stress hormones in the body while reducing gut bloating, gas, and inflammation. 

5. Prebiotics

Prebiotics are a complex structure containing carbohydrates and fibers that probiotic microorganisms feed on. These prebiotics are broken down in the intestines through fermentation. This process is beneficial for gut health as it improves gut absorption, boosts the integrity of the gut barrier, and aids in reducing inflammation. 

6. Psyllium Husk

This plant-based fiber has been used to resolve digestive tract issues for ages. The husk can be found in the form of powder or capsules. Psyllium husk promotes stool formation, increases bowel movements, and helps in relieving constipation. The husk can be used short-term to prevent constipation or be consumed regularly, as most fitness enthusiasts link its regular consumption to improved gut microbiota. 

Besides the supplements mentioned above, there are several other notable supplements like omega 3’s, vitamin-based, and mineral-containing supplements that can aid in improving the digestive system. As mentioned earlier, these supplements are not an alternative to the standard treatment you might receive for an ailment related to the digestive system. It is best to consult your doctor if you are experiencing any issues with digestion so you can get the best treatment possible.