Our digestive health is one of the most important functions in our body that we need to consider on a daily basis. 70% of the body’s immune system resides in the digestive tract which is why, among many of reasons, maintaining digestive health is crucial for our overall well being. Most people don’t understand the important of gut health, which is why we are here to explain! Plus we’ll give you some supplement suggestions so that you can stay at the top of your health game.
All diseases begin in the gut which is why we must put our digestive systems first! Believe it or not, gastrointestinal health can be the main cause of many health issues including –but not limited to — brain and mental health. Focusing on digestive health can help restore full health to your system which can lead to positive effects on your body, mood, memory, immune system, beneficial bacteria levels, and more.
There are many different supplements that aim to improve the body’s digestive health. Probiotics are the most common supplements for gut health, but why limit ourselves? There are many vitamins, minerals, and supplements that can increase our digestive health. All supplements geared towards digestive health will include at least one of the following ingredients…
- Probiotics
- DGL (Licorice)
- Peppermint Oil
- Chamomile
- Ginger
- L-Glutamine
- Psyllium
- Artichoke
Now that you know the basics, let’s figure out what supplement is best for you. Here’s our list of the Top 10 Best Supplements For Digestive Health!
10. Culturelle – Digestive Health Probiotic
Culturelle makes one of the best probiotic supplements on the market. The supplement, titled Digestive Health Probiotic, restores the natural balance of good and bad bacteria in our digestive system. By keeping this proper balance, this supplement can make your digestive system more functional, reduce your rate of digestive upset, aid in treating occasional diarrhea, help treat gas and bloating, and support your immune system. Culturelle is made 100% from Lactobacillus GG, making it the only supplement on the market like it. We love this probiotic supplement. Give it a shot!
9. American Health – Chewable Super Papaya Enzyme Plus
American Health has created the Chewable Super Papaya Enzyme Plus supplement and we just can’t get enough of it. These chewable gummies help support natural digestive enzymes in the body and promote nutrient absorption. Made in the USA, they are vegetarian, gluten free, and delicious. Plus they contain peppermint and chlorophyll to freshen breath and reduce the possible bad taste of vitamins. Does it get any better than that?
8. Enzymatic Therapy – DGL Licorice Extract
Not many people know this but licorice extract, or deglycyrrhizinated, is actually a great supplement for supporting digestive health. Licorice extract supports the overall health of the gastrointestinal system as well as the lining of the stomach and the intestinal tract. The supplements are chewable so they work naturally with the enzymes in our saliva. Smart, right? The ingredient list is short, which is something we always like. Enzymatic Therapy’s DGL Licorice Extract contains only deglycyrrhizinated licorice root extract, glycine, fructose, manitol, sorbitol, anise seed powder, stearic acid, natural flavor, cellulose, silicon dioxide, and magnesium stearate. Each ingredient has a specific purpose, such as glycine, which is a stable amino acid that helps keep the stomach lining strong.
7. NOW Foods – Peppermint Gels w/ Ginger & Fennel
Peppermint is an all natural supplement that’s key for digestive system support. NOW Foods makes Peppermint Gels with added ginger and fennel and we just really love them. These coated soft gels are packed with peppermint oil, fennel and ginger to provide intestinal support, promote synergistic effects, and help keep a healthy balance within your gut. Why not keep your body at it’s A game with just one all natural supplement?
6. Nature’s Way – Chamomile Flower
The Nature’s Way Chamomile Flower supplement is perfect for anyone with a sensitive stomach. Chamomile flowers, specifically the German chamomile found in this supplement, are proven to have a relaxing effect on the digestive tract. Take these pills after a meal or before bedtime and your digestive system will thank you!
5. Herbal Secrets – Ginger Root
Ginger Root is another food based supplement that works as an all natural digestive aid. The Herbal Secrets Ginger Root supplement soothes an upset stomach, helps to reduce nausea, supports cardiovascular health, and boosts immune system function. Ginger deserves more credit!
4. Optimum Nutrition – Glutamine
Our bodies need to produce new digestive structure cells in order to remain healthy and avoid the risk of leaky gut. Glutamine is a primary amino acid that supports the digestive health system, is vital to muscular health, promotes rapid disintegration, and provides maximum absorption. Glutamine may not be the most obvious choice for those with sensitive stomachs or a need for a healthier gut, but it is proven to increase gut health and can provide support for health conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS.
3. NOW Foods – Psyllium Husk Caps
As you can tell, NOW Foods make some of our favorite supplements. They use all of the right ingredients, are mostly all vegetarian, and they won’t break the bank either. Amazon sells a 500 count bottle of the Psyllium Husk Caps for just $17! But what are Psyllium Husk caps? Psyllium Husk is a common name for seeds that come from a plant. When used in supplement form, these pills can support the body by increasing the intake of dietary fiber and helping to regulate gastrointestinal health. This supplement is key for anyone looking to maintain regularity!
2. Jarrow Formulas – Artichoke
Artichoke leaf extract is another all natural supplement that we just can’t get enough of! The supplement has a long list of unexpected health benefits, from liver health, to cancer prevention, to digestive health, and more. Artichoke leaf extracts have been long recommended by German doctors as a gentle remedy for treating indigestion and upset stomach. It is believed that this all natural treatment occurs due to a compound in artichokes called cynarin, which increases the production of bile, thus speeding up the movement of food and waste through the intestines and reducing any bloating. Another benefit is that one of the major sources of fiber in artichokes, inulin, is a prebiotic. Prebiotics are proven to help provide the body with a healthy balance of “good bacteria” in the gut.
1. NOW Foods – Super Enzymes
Another one from NOW Foods, because, you know, we love them! The Super Enzymes supplement supports healthy digestion and is one of the best on the market! The super enzymes work by breaking down fats, carbs, and protein as well as optimizing nutrient availability. The powerful ingredient list includes the recommended dosages of betaine, 3 types of pancreatin, ox bile extract, bromelain, papain, pepsin, papaya, pineapple juice powder, and cellulase powder all inside a vegetarian capsule. We love love love this super enzyme based supplement!
