If your gut could use a little TLC, one of these supplements might do the trick.
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Photo: Abbey Littlejohn.
Photo:Illustration: Getty Images. Photo: Abbey Littlejohn. EatingWell design.
Key Takeaways
Nurturing a healthy gut is like tending to a garden.
Both require the right balance of nutrients and care to flourish.
When used properly to target specific needs and conditions, supplements can play a supportive role in gut health.
However, theyre not a quick fix.
Instead, dietitians like to think of them as a complement to a balanced diet.
It is usually sold in supplement form as L-glutamine.
However, the dose and duration may matter.
In some cases, some supplements can come in handy for calming simple digestive issues.
Thats because dietary supplements are not strictly regulated by the FDA the same way that food is.
That means there is no guarantee of their quality, effectiveness or safety, says Kenney.
So, reading labels carefully is critical.
If you think you have an issue that would benefit from taking a digestive enzyme, dont self-diagnose.
Schedule an appointment with your health care provider for a workup to diagnose and treat the issue correctly.
For instance, specific strains likeLactobacillus rhamnosus GGandSaccharomyces boulardiihave been shown to reduce antibiotic-related diarrhea.
Prebiotics
Prebioticsare compounds that feed the friendly bacteria in your gut.
In a perfect world, wed all eat enough of these foods to get a wide complement of prebiotics.
When thats not possible, supplements may help.
Right now, the best evidence is for the ability of GOS and inulin to ease constipation.
They arent for everyone, though.
This can set the stage for digestive issues like constipation and abdominal discomfort.
Fortunately,magnesium supplementscan help bridge nutritional gaps and provide relief from constipation.
For the best results for occasional constipation, look for products that contain magnesium citrate.
This form has been well-studied for its ability to get things moving.
However, it is powerful and is not recommended for long-term use.
For gentler relief, consider magnesium oxide.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil offers a natural way to soothe digestive discomfort, particularly for those with IBS.
However, theyre not a magic fix.
Instead, think of them as one tool in your toolbox that can be helpful when needed.
For a lasting fix, focus on diet and lifestyle habits like these.
Slow Down and Enjoy Meals.How we eat can be as important as what we eat.
take a stab at aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night.
The Bottom Line
A healthy diet and lifestyle are the foundation for optimal gut health.
However, targeted supplements may help give your gut the extra boost it needs.
However, if digestive discomfort is more than the occasional nuisance, dont self-diagnose.
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