Certain natural supplement ingredients like calendula and marshmallow root may help soothe your gut and are readily available in supplement form. But should you try supplements to improve gut health? We’ll examine the facts.
Gastrointestinal disorders are relatively common in the United States. According to the CDC, up to 20 percent of Americans suffer from Gatroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), ten to fifteen percent have Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and 1.3 million Americans currently live with a diagnosis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). These statistics may make you feel a little sick to your stomach, or you may be among those already struggling with gut issues. Either way, stick around as we discuss a few reasons to try supplements to improve your gut health and the best ingredients to look for.
Should You Try Supplements to Improve Gut Health? Here Are the Facts is an original (HealthXWire) article.
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What to look for in supplements to improve gut health:
Calendula
Calendula, also known as marigold, is a flowering plant used for centuries in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. Calendula contains flavonoids and triterpenoids, compounds that possess anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract is a primary factor in digestive discomfort, bloating, and other gut issues. By reducing inflammation, calendula may help alleviate these symptoms and promote a healthier gut environment.
Additionally, calendula has demonstrated antimicrobial properties that fight certain bacteria, fungi, and viruses. An imbalance of these microbial populations in your gut can lead to dysbiosis, a condition associated with digestive disorders. Calendula’s antimicrobial activity may help control the growth of harmful bacteria and promote a more balanced gut microbiota. These antimicrobial properties may also assist in healing injuries or wounds in the lining of the stomach caused by certain conditions such as ulcers or general inflammation.
What to look for in supplements to improve gut health:
Marshmallow root
Marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) has been traditionally used for its soothing effects on the digestive system. While scientific research on marshmallow root’s specific effects on gut health is limited, it is believed to promote several mechanisms that may improve gut health. Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a thick, gel-like substance that forms when mixed with water. Mucilage is known for being demulcent, which means it can help soothe, coat, and protect the lining of the digestive tract. This coating protects inflamed or irritated areas of the stomach lining from further exposure to stomach acid, harmful bacteria, and other irritants while it heals. Simultaneously, it may help soothe gastritis, ulcers, and other inflammatory bowel diseases.
Another benefit of marshmallow root is its potential to serve as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria. Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that promote certain beneficial gut bacteria’s growth and activity. A balanced gut microbiota is associated with various aspects of gut health, including improved digestion, absorption of nutrients, and a strengthened immune system. Marshmallow root has traditionally been used to relieve minor digestive symptoms, including heartburn and indigestion.
What to look for in supplements to improve gut health:
Triphala fruit
Triphala is a sort of herbal Ayurvedic cocktail, if you will, consisting of three fruits: amalaki (emblica officinalis), Bibhitaki (terminalia bellirica), and haritaki (terminalia chebula). Triphala is often recommended to support healthy digestion because of its potential to stimulate digestive enzymes, which can enhance the breakdown and absorption of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract. It may also help alleviate common digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation. The formulation also has mild laxative properties that help regulate bowel movement and may benefit individuals experiencing occasional constipation or irregularity. Its detoxifying properties support the liver by eliminating accumulated waste and toxic build-up. As with calendula, the phytochemicals in Triphala may help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
What to look for in supplements to improve gut health:
A quality product from a quality vendor
There is no shortage of vendors and brands selling supplements to improve gut health, whether online or at your local health food store. Choosing a supplement made with responsibly sourced, third-party tested, high-integrity ingredients manufactured in the US in cGMP facilities can feel overwhelming. One such supplement is The Gut Pill, made by Medicine Man Plant Co, containing all ingredients needed to help you regain your gut health. Lactobacillus Acidophilus balances your gut bacteria. Calendula balances, soothes, restores, and reduces inflammation. and and Marshmallow root fight off harmful bacteria while coating the digestive tract. Triphala reduces inflammation, regulates the bowels, and eliminates digestive discomfort. Together, these powerhouse ingredients provide relief for those struggling with gut health.
Founded by Steve Skiff and Dr. Mark “Merriwether” Vorderbruggen, Medicine Man Plant Co strives to bridge the gap between the nutritional needs of our genetic past and the realities of our modern existence. The company has made it a mission to “unearth the world’s ancient plant wisdom that keep humans strong and healthy for millennia.” While the philosophy that guides the company is rooted in honoring the wisdom of the past, its production practices are firmly aligned with the present, as is reflected in the company’s commitment to using third-party testing and state-of-the-art production facilities.
Should you try supplements to improve gut health:
A final analysis
It’s no picnic to deal with gut issues. Digestive ailments can interrupt some of life’s most crucial moments. You may avoid certain foods for fear of paying for them later. However, with the right supplement, it may be possible to enjoy all your favorite foods without compromising the ability to heal your stomach. Supplements for gut health may help you reclaim your life, so that you can attend that major event without fear of unexpected discomfort. So give them a try. Your gut will thank you later.
You can read more about gastrointestinal health here:
John Hopkins Medicine: The Brain-Gut Connection
MD Anderson Cancer Center: Bacteria and cancer: Feeding your microbiome
UCLA Health: If you want to boost immunity, look to the gut
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your health care professional to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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