In functional medicine, it’s said that all roads lead back to the gut. In fact, gut health is the root of good health, and there’s no getting around that. But we don’t always take the best care of our guts, over a lifetime!
Out gut isn’t responsible for digestion alone. It’s where nutrient absorption happens, immune function is regulated, hormones are metabolized, inflammation is either resolved or amplified, and the nervous system receives constant feedback via the gut-brain axis.
When the gut is compromised by stress, infections, medications, or years of poor digestion, symptoms can (and will) show up everywhere in the body. Beyond uncomfortable stomach symptoms, you may experience fatigue, brain fog, skin issues, joint pain and mood imbalances.
Rather than chasing symptoms, a functional approach looks at how well the gut is actually working. Is food being digested properly? Is the microbiome balanced? Is the gut lining intact?
Supplements are one way to support the gut, in addition to a nutrient dense healthy diet, of course. My curated list below does a good job of addressing both symptomatic and long-term gut issues, and all of these can be found in my Fullscript dispensary, if you’re interested. (See my post about Supplement Quality Matters here.)
My goal here is to present and educate you a little about these possibilities. None of these are right for everyone, and as always, you should seek the advice of your doctor before taking supplements. (Though truth be told, it’s likely that some mainstream doctors don’t know about or believe in any of these! So doing your own research is advised.)
Atrantil
Persistent bloating and distention often signal microbial imbalance in the small intestine – particularly methane-producing organisms (I know, gross!) that slow motility and increase fermentation. Clinical studies show that a botanical supplement like Atrantil significantly improves bloating and constipation vs. placebo. It improves motility and reduces gas while preserving beneficial bacteria, and can help people with SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).
Probiotics (Megaspore)
Broad spectrum probiotics help build and maintain a balanced microbiome, which is essential for proper gut function and immunity. Spore-based probiotics have a protective protein shell that allows them to bypass stomach acid and bile, which can render traditional probiotics ineffective. They also stay in the gut longer. They are even shelf-stable! Bacillus coagulans and the other strains used in this supplement have been proven effective in reduce IBS symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain and stool irregularity vs. placebo.
GI Revive Powder (Designs for Health)
Chronic inflammation, infections, food sensitivities and stress can damage the intestinal lining, increasing permeability and immune activation. The gut lining must have proper
permeability and integrity so it can not only absorb nutrients, but also prevent toxins, allergens and microbes from gaining access to the blood stream. This supplement contains clinically proven ingredients (L-glutamine and zinc L-carnosine) and a range of age-old botanicals that can be helpful to those with leaky gut, food sensitivities, autoimmune conditions or chronic digestive inflammation.
Peppermint Spirits (Herb Pharm)
Digestive discomfort is often tied to gut-brain axis dysregulation, leading to heightened gut sensitivity. Peppermint helps relax smooth muscle, reduce spasms and nausea. I (and everybody in my family) have used this simple tincture for YEARS, and it never fails to soothe. Peppermint oil has robust clinical evidence showing symptom improvement in IBS, including reduced pain and bloating.
Betaine HCI + Pepsin (Thorne)
Indigestion can be caused by many things, including inadequate hydrochloric acid (HCI ) in the stomach. Stomach acid declines with age, making it more difficult for the body to digest protein, absorb certain nutrients or protect against pathogens, resulting in vitamin deficiencies and food sensitivities. Ironically, overuse of antacids or acid blockers further reduces stomach acid and can intensify the exact problems they’re trying to solve! Learn more about the value of HCI supplementation here.
Advanced Digestive Enzymes (Thorne)
Incomplete digestion allows food to ferment in the gut, contributing to gas, bloating, nutrient deficiencies and dysbiosis. This comprehensive set of digestive enzymes improves the breakdown and absorption of proteins, fat and carbs, reducing digestive distress. This supplement may help people who feel heavy, bloated or fatigued after protein-rich or fatty foods. It also supports those with food sensitivities and provides support after gallbladder removal. Learn more about digestive enzymes here.
