5 Supplements to Improve Gut Health

There are a variety of different supplements available that aid in the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiome. Studies have suggested that a regular and structured regime of supplementation can help in creating a more balanced gut environment. This does not mean buying every single supplement available, but simply identifying what works for you on the financial and time budget you have. Many of us live very busy, stressful lives and hardly have time to incorporate as many good foods into our diet as we’d like to. This is where supplementation comes in.

Why use supplements?

The truth is that many of us living in urban areas have very fast-paced, stressful work lives. The average work hour is increasing, meaning that our time is extremely limited in how we’re able to take care of ourselves. This is a very unfortunate, but a truthful reality for most of us. This being said, it doesn’t mean that our health can’t be prioritised. It is important to find a healthy, happy medium between our work, personal lives and our health. 

Supplementation is a good way to easily access more nutrients, however, they should not be used to replace food. They act as a means to add to the nutrients one is receiving from one’s diet. Today’s foods have been pillaged of good nutrients, due to poor crop rotations, preservatives, freezing and thawing processes, etc. We are not receiving as much as we should be, and it is thus important to supplement the loss of those nutrients.

Some excellent supplements to ensure gut health help to provide the microbiome with good bacteria and aid in the prevention of inflammation.

1. Probiotics

The main supplement for gut health is a probiotic. Probiotics contain millions of live microorganisms (bacteria and yeast) that help to fight off harmful bacteria in the gut. These microorganisms help to keep pathogens at bay, and aid in the maintenance of the “gut garden”. 

2. Peppermint oil

For patients suffering from IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), studies have suggested that peppermint oil may alleviate heavy bloating and gas. Peppermint oil contains L-menthol which may provide antispasmodic effects within the intestinal tract. One can easily access peppermint oil in capsules from local health stores. 

3. Chamomile

People have known of the calming properties of chamomile for decades. The same applies to the effects of chamomile on the gut. The anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile may provide benefits in treating gut disorders. It can be used to treat upset stomachs and may reduce the discomfort experienced due to gas.

4. L-Glutamine

L-glutamine is a naturally occurring amino acid in the body. It is used by the body to help support organ health and assists the body in supporting intestinal wall integrity. The supplement is said to aid in upset stomach issues, as well as aid in the effective absorption of nutrients in the gut.

5. Psyllium Fibre

Psyllium husk is a natural supplement that is very high in fibre. Because of this high fibre content, it is able to assist with the absorption of water to the intestines, making it easier for stool to pass through. A regular gut is extremely important in maintaining intestinal health.

Summary

A good supplementation regime may lead to significant improvements in gut health, especially in individuals suffering from IBS, Crohn’s Disease and other gut issues. It is important to consult one’s doctor first, in order to make sure that there are no interactions between medications and supplements. Supplementing and making sure the gut is in order is an important step in treating many of the common ailments we experience today. Supplementation allows us a more convenient way to acquire essential nutrients that may be missing from our diet.