Gut health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, influencing everything from digestion to immune function and even weight management. Incorporating gut-healing supplements into your routine can help reduce bloating and support weight loss by promoting a healthier digestive environment. These supplements often include nutrients that nurture the gut microbiome and enhance gut function.
Paola Xhuli, MPH, recently shared on Instagram six supplements that can help heal your gut, all of which can be found in various whole foods and spices. Among them are boswellia, probiotics, and flavonoids. Keep reading to learn about all six supplements and why they’re beneficial for your gut health.
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1. Boswellia
Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is recognized for its potential benefits in promoting gut health through its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains active compounds called boswellic acids, which have been studied for their ability to reduce inflammation in the gut lining.
Xhuli says this supplement is anti-inflammatory, immune-balancing, and treats IBD.
2. Omega-3s
Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for gut health, primarily due to their anti-inflammatory properties. These fatty acids, also found in fish oil supplements, help to minimize inflammation in the gut lining, which can alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
“Xhuli says these supplements can increase microbiome diversity and are anti-inflammatory.
3. Curcumin
Curcumin, found in turmeric, is valued for its ability to promote gut health through various mechanisms. Its potent anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate gut inflammation, a common issue in conditions like inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Moreover, curcumin supports a healthy balance of gut bacteria by fostering the growth of beneficial microbes while inhibiting harmful ones.
Like the other supplements, curcumin supports good bacteria, manages IBD, and is anti-inflammatory.
4. Flavonoids
These natural compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive tract. By supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, flavonoids contribute to a balanced gut microbiota, which is essential for optimal digestion and immune function.
Xhuli highlights that flavonoids strengthen the gut lining, protect against oxidative stress, and are anti-inflammatory.
5. Probiotics
Probiotics are widely recognized for their beneficial effects on gut health. These live microorganisms, typically found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, as well as in supplement form, help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut microbiota. By enhancing the population of beneficial bacteria (such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species) in the intestines, probiotics promote better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Xhuli says this resolves dysbiosis, reduces inflammation, and protects the gut lining.
6. L-Glutamine
L-glutamine has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the gut. Chronic inflammation in the digestive tract is associated with various gastrointestinal disorders, and L-glutamine may help alleviate symptoms by calming this inflammation.
Xhuli agrees and notes that this supplement can strengthen the gut lining, improve IBS, and reduce inflammation.
