Brooke Whitman-Roberts
Wellness Manager
Digestion Deep Dive
By Brooke Whitman-Roberts
When your microbiome is in balance, your body has a clearer path to feeling its best.
Your gut microbiome is a vast community of trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. While research into digestion and the microbiome’s influence on the body is advancing rapidly, scientists are only beginning to uncover its full impact. A well-functioning digestive system supports nutrient absorption, minimizes gas and bloating, and helps reduce issues like heartburn and constipation. But the question remains: how does your gut microbiome affect other areas of your health, and what steps can you take to cultivate optimal gut balance?
Digest Better with Enzymes
(Flora digestive enzymes, Naka Enhanced Digestive Enzyme, Harmonic Arts Digestive Bitters)
Simply thinking about food can trigger your pancreas to release digestive juices. These juices contain enzymes like lipase, protease and amylase, which help break down fats, proteins and starches. Stomach acid also plays a role in breaking food down and supporting overall digestive function.
Factors such as ageing, stress, antacid use, poor diet and alcohol can reduce your body’s ability to produce these digestive secretions. Herbal blends known as digestive bitters are often taken before meals to help stimulate this natural activity.
Because enzyme production can decline with age or lifestyle influences, digestive enzyme supplements may be helpful for people experiencing insufficiencies. They can support the breakdown of food and improve the absorption of essential nutrients.
Supplement with Pre + Probiotics
(Living Alchemy Probiotics, Bio-K drinks + Daily Care probiotic)
A balanced gut microbiome allows helpful and potentially harmful bacteria to coexist without issue. When that balance is disrupted by infections, poor diet, stress, antibiotics or other factors, harmful bacteria can take over and affect health in various ways.
Beneficial bacteria, known as probiotics, support the immune system, help regulate digestion and may play a role in skin, allergy and cardiovascular health. They also contribute to mental well-being by interacting with the gut’s own production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
Fermented foods naturally contain probiotics, and they are also available in supplement form. Prebiotic fibres like inulin act as the food source that probiotics rely on. Living Alchemy probiotics are considered “symbiotic,” meaning they combine probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics to support a healthy gut ecosystem.
Don’t forget fibre!
(03NC Daily Fibre Boost)
Fibre helps create a healthy environment in the intestines and colon by adding bulk and supporting the normal movement of food through the digestive tract. There are two primary types of fibre:
- Insoluble fibre: Adds bulk to stool and promotes regularity.
- Soluble fibre: Absorbs water, supports healthy cholesterol levels and may help balance blood sugar.
If you are increasing your fibre intake, it is best to do so gradually to avoid digestive discomfort. Be sure to stay well hydrated when following a higher fibre diet.
Heal + Soothe Your Gut
(Flora Udo’s Oil 3-6-9 Blend, Sealicious Omega-3 Oil, Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera Juice, Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Collagen)
A strong gut lining is essential for overall health. It acts as a protective barrier that prevents unwanted substances from entering the bloodstream while allowing nutrients to be absorbed efficiently.
When this lining becomes compromised, it can contribute to inflammation and affect immune function. Nutritional support can help maintain its integrity. Omega-3 fatty acids support a healthy inflammatory response, aloe vera may soothe digestive discomfort, and bone broth provides collagen, amino acids and minerals that nourish the digestive tract.
Together, these nutrients help support a healthier gut environment, which in turn contributes to better digestion, immunity and overall vitality.
For more support, stop by your Wellness Department and speak with our knowledgeable team.
