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Gut health isnt just about good digestion.
Thefoods you eatcan significantly impact the makeup of your gut microbiota, for better or worse.
But what role do supplements play in gut health?
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Many supplements promise to heal your gut, but research does not support many of these claims.
We spoke to nutrition experts to find out what you should and shouldnt do for gut health.
Registered dietitians encourage a food-first approach instead of relying on expensive,unregulated supplements.
Read on to see which ones they say to skip.
4 Supplements You Shouldn’t Take for Gut Health
1.
Probiotic Supplements
Probiotic supplements often claim to improve health by restoring healthy gut bacteria.
Since they are supplements, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate probiotics.
One thing most greens powders dont provide is dietary fiber.
Fiber serves as food for the beneficial gut bacteria and supports healthy digestion and nutrient absorption.
Digestive Enzyme Supplements
OTC digestive enzymes are often thought to relieve acid reflux, gas and bloating.
The body naturally produces digestive enzymes to help break down food.
Costa recommends talking to your doctor before taking OTC digestive enzymes.
This may result in an overgrowth of harmful gut bacteria, changes in nutrient absorption and inappropriate immune responses.
PPIs should only be used as needed, as directed by a health care provider.
Fermented foods naturally contain probiotics that support gut health, while fiber feeds good gut bacteria.
We also love thisAnti-Inflammatory Cherry-Spinach Smoothiefor a high-fiber breakfast.
Focus on including a variety of plant-based and fermented foods.
Investig.2023;53:343355. doi:10.1007/s40005-022-00605-8
Horvath A, Stadlbauer V.Proton Pump Inhibitors and their Microbiome-Mediated Side Effects.
