Do you have problems digesting food? A lot of people do these days. Diets full of processed and preservative-laden dishes do not help. Additionally, you are probably always rushing from one task to another, with very little time to sit down and relax after a meal. The food just sits there, unable to move downward and outward as intended. You feel bloated and constipated. Not fun at all. So, can anything be done about digestive problems? The answer is an unequivocal “yes.” You can have some sort of surgery, of course; but, you probably want something less invasive. In that case, consider using these top six supplements that can make your digestive tract work a lot more smoothly.
Top 6 Supplements to Aid in Digestion
- Chamomile
- Gelatin
- Lactose enzyme
- Licorice
- Peppermint oil
- Probiotics
Chamomile
People use chamomile for its multiple health benefits. Most feel more relaxed after drinking the leaves in tea form. Others use the herb as a sleep aid. The increased level of relaxation after a cup is probably why chamomile helps with digestion. Your digestive tract is able to calm down and handle the food you have put in it.
Highlights:
- Increased relaxation levels
- Reduced nausea
- Sleep aid
Gelatin
This cool, soothing supplement goes down easy and helps other foods do the same. You can prepare gelatin in two ways. First, the traditional broth-gelatin mix has been used as a stomach tonic for centuries. Second, you can just eat regular gelatin. In general, gelatin is one of the most side-effect free supplements available. Eaten as a dessert dish from the time we are kids, everyone knows how to prepare at least one dish. Though researchers are still trying to ascertain just how beneficial gelatin is for those with digestive problems, there is no harm in eating some now to at least help ease an upset stomach.
Highlights:
- Easy to prepare
- Widely available
- Soothing
Lactose Enzyme
Anyone who is lactose intolerant knows how embarrassing this problem can be. Unable to digest cow milk properly, you suffer with cramping and experience a bloated, gassy feeling after eating or drinking dairy products. That is, unless they take a lactase enzyme. This product helps the body break down dairy products, so they can be eaten by the lactose intolerant.
Highlights:
- Easy-to-use tablets
- Safe
- Fast-acting
Licorice
This tasty treat can be used to combat acid reflux and heartburn. You can take unpurified, potent licorice; however, be prepared for possible side effects, which might include a rapid increase in blood pressure. Others opt for the DGL extract, which is less potent and thus freer of adverse side effects. Last, you can also just suck on a few licorice candy sticks.
Highlights:
- Distinctive taste
- Fights heartburn
- Few side effects
Peppermint Oil
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients swear by peppermint oil as a digestive aid. The strong substance helps the stomach better break down the food you have consumed. Moreover, those with IBS report feeling less bloated when using this supplement. It is best to get the enteric-coated peppermint oil tablets. The coating delays the dissolving of the tablet until it reaches the intestines. There, the real work gets done. Though you will experience a minty aftertaste for hours afterwards, there are no known serious side effects, since peppermint oil is all natural.
Highlights:
- Ice taste
- Natural
- Good for IBS
Probiotics
You may be aware that not all bacteria is bad. Just think about the living organisms that inhabit our yogurts and cheeses. Well, probiotics are similar. They consist of helpful bacteria and yeast. Use them when suffering from diarrhea or IBS.
- Positive bacteria
- Good for IBS
- Diarrhea relief
Conclusion
These six supplements have all been proven through either medical research or widespread use to have beneficial qualities for some people suffering from digestive problems. In fact, you do not have to wait until there is something wrong to begin including these non-invasive supplements in your health plan. Just be sure to speak with your healthcare provider first to ensure that you are free of conditions that will make use unwise.