Best digestive supplements: 6 supplements that aid digestion
Healthy digestion is integral to overall health, so working to keep it running smoothly is critical. Many people already get all of the nutrients they need from eating a healthy diet. But there are many reasons why others want or need to take supplements to aid in their digestion. Whether you are suffering from an illness that supplements can help, or if you’re just deficient in certain nutrients, digestive supplements may be right for you. Here are six of the best digestive supplements available and what they can to do improve your health.
BEST DIGESTIVE SUPPLEMENTS – FIBER
Fiber in the gut helps prevent or relieve constipation, one of the most prevalent digestive complaints. You can get fiber in your diet by eating whole grains, plenty of fruits and veggies, beans and nuts and seeds. But sometimes dietary intake isn’t enough. That’s when you need a little boost via a supplement. There are two types of fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water. Insoluble fiber does not. Aside from aiding with digestion, fiber can also help to lower the levels of glucose and cholesterol in your system.
BEST DIGESTIVE SUPPLEMENTS – PROBIOTICS
Probiotics are bacteria that occur naturally in your gut and help maintain its overall health. When taken properly, probiotics work against irritable bowel syndrome and reduce bloating, gas, constipation and other digestive issues associated with it. They also are important for digestive health overall. And evidence suggests they even help with inflammation, immune function and blood pressure as well as depression and anxiety. As with fiber, you can boost your intake of probiotics through diet. Dietary sources include foods with live and active cultures such as yogurt and kefir, and fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi. But diet alone doesn’t always provide the body with enough of specific substances. Probiotic supplements can help. There are many types of probiotic supplements, so consult a physician before taking.
BEST DIGESTIVE SUPPLEMENTS – DIGESTIVE ENZYMES
Digestive enzymes occur naturally in the body and work to break food down so your body can absorb nutrients. When your body doesn’t make enough of these enzymes, digestion slows. This can lead to digestive discomfort. You can replace these enzymes with either prescription enzymes or over-the-counter supplements. Examples include lactase supplements like Lactaid; alpha-galactosidase supplements like Beano; and papain or chewable papaya. The over-the-counter supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so talk to a doctor for advice before you use them.
BEST DIGESTIVE SUPPLEMENTS – VITAMIN D
Vitamin D is famous for its role in immune system function and inflammation control. But D also can affect the digestive process. If you are deficient vitamin D, your body’s inflammation response can worsen and cause existing digestive issues to worsen with it. Vitamin D can also help fight some diseases and reduce depression. Like fiber and probiotics, you can get vitamin D through diet by eating foods rich in it, such as egg yolks and fortified milks and cereals. You also get it from sun exposure. If these things don’t get your D levels high enough, you can take it as a supplement. As with any supplement, consult a healthcare professional with concerns.
BEST DIGESTIVE SUPPLEMENTS – L-GLUTAMINE
L-glutamine is an amino acid that is broken down from proteins. Athletes commonly use it to build mass and aid in muscle recovery. It’s also in your intestinal lining to aid in digestion and absorption. L-glutamine can help treat IBS, gastritis, and other digestive issues. And it’s also key to a strong immune system. Like many other supplements, you can get L-glutamine naturally through diet in foods such as beef, chicken and fish, as well as beans, beets and leafy greens. When diet isn’t enough, you can find L-glutamine as an over-the-counter supplement. This is a great way to take it because the supplement is already in its amino acid form. Be sure to read directions carefully and consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement.
BEST DIGESTIVE SUPPLEMENTS – GINGER
Ginger is a flowering plant that has long been used medicinally to help in healing the flu and common cold as well as aid in digestion. Gingerol is the main compound in ginger and has strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. It is thought that indigestion often occurs when the stomach isn’t emptied fast enough, and ginger helps to quicken the process of emptying the stomach. The compounds in ginger benefit both the body and the brain, as it is also believed to protect against Alzheimer’s disease. There are many over-the-counter ginger supplements that make it easy to add in to your diet.
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