Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms (mostly bacteria) that when taken in the right amounts, provide health benefits. We already have bacteria in our digestive system, also known as gut flora. These bacteria help us digest food better. Having the right gut flora can prevent infections, provide relief from diarrhea, and reduce inflammation that is also associated with other intestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome. They can even help protect against colon cancer and stomach ulcers, boost immune function, and help with lactose intolerance.
Natural source of probiotics include milk products such as yogurt and cheese. Probiotics are now being added to nutrition bars, smoothies, and infant/toddler formulas. They can also be found in the supplements aisle in your local pharmacy, without a prescription.
Digestive Enzymes
The body uses digestive enzymes to break down food so that it can be used by the body as nutrients. Digestive enzyme supplements are available for use when the pancreas is not making enough of these enzymes. Possible causes of this deficiency may include: lactose intolerance, cystic fibrosis, or any problems involving the pancreas.
Digestive enzymes come in many forms: animal-based pancreatic enzymes, microbe-derived enzymes, and plant-based enzymes. These enzymes work to help digest carbohydrates, fats, or proteins. So if you think you need a digestive enzyme, make sure to speak with your pharmacist to find the right product for you!
Fiber Supplements
If constipation or diarrhea is a problem, consider a fiber supplement that contains ingredients like psyllium, methylcellulose, or calcium polycarbophil. These forms of fiber have the capacity to hold water and form a gel, which will help to soften hard stools in constipation or moderate hard or soft stools in diarrhea.
Psyllium, in particular, has also been shown to lower cholesterol. It also delays stomach emptying which makes you feel fuller after a meal and could help with weight loss.
Just make sure to drink plenty of water when using these supplements in order to avoid worsening constipation.
L-glutamine
L-glutamine is an amino acid that has been shown to help the intestine maintain its shape and work properly. This amino acid helps protect the stomach when it is under stress, such as inflammation. It has been particularly helpful for patients that have been hospitalized or seriously injured.
Glutamine supplements come in capsule, tablet, or powder form. As always, make sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new supplement.
Sources:
- Roxas M. The role of enzyme supplementation in digestive disorders. Altern Med Rev 2008;13(4):307–14.
- Pandey V, Berwal V, Solanki N, Malik NS. Probiotics: Healthy bugs and nourishing elements of diet. J Int Soc Prev Community Dent 2015;5(2):81–7.
- Eswaran S, Muir J, Chey WD. Fiber and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Am J Gastroenterol 2013;108(5):718–27.
- Slavin J. Fiber and Prebiotics: Mechanisms and Health Benefits. Nutrients 2013;5(4):1417–35.
- Wischmeyer PE. Glutamine: role in gut protection in critical illness. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 2006;9(5):607–12.
- Rapin JR, Wiernsperger N. Possible Links between Intestinal Permeablity and Food Processing: A Potential Therapeutic Niche for Glutamine. Clinics 2010;65(6):635–43.
