A Comprehensive Guide on Gut Health and Indigestion
1.1Â What is gut health?
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Gut health refers to the balance and functionality of your digestive system, including your stomach and intestines. It's influenced by a variety of factors, such as the diverse community of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi) living in your gut, your immune system and your diet. Various factors such as diet, physical activity, medications and genetic predispositions can influence the diversity and composition of the microbiome, thereby impacting different facets of our health positively or negatively. Gut health is a holistic concept that encompasses the delicate balance of the gut microbiome and its interactions with various physiological systems. Maintaining a healthy gut is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and supporting your overall well-being.
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1.2Â Signs of an unhealthy gut [1,2,3,4,5]
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Our body has a way of alerting us when things aren't quite right within. Here are some signs of an unhealthy gut, which can manifest due to disruptions in gut bacteria, inflammation and related issues.1.2.1Â Â Frequent bloating or gas: Excessive gas or bloating after meals may indicate an imbalance in gut bacteria or difficulty digesting certain foods.
1.2.2Â Â Digestive discomforts like constipation or diarrhoea: Persistent constipation or diarrhoea could signal gut issues such as inflammation or bacterial imbalance.
1.2.3Â Â Persistent fatigue or low energy: Feeling tired or sluggish despite getting enough rest may suggest poor nutrient absorption or an overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut.
1.2.4Â Â Mood swings or irritability: According to the gut-brain connection, imbalances in gut microflora can affect mood and behaviour, potentially leading to mood swings or irritability.
1.2.5Â Â Skin conditions like acne or eczema: Skin conditions are also considered a sign of an unhealthy gut as they may be linked to inflammation or immune responses triggered by imbalances in the gut microbiome.
1.2.6Â Â Food intolerances or sensitivities: Developing new sensitivities to certain foods could indicate gut inflammation or damage to the intestinal lining.
1.2.7Â Â Difficulty maintaining a healthy weight: Gut health influences metabolism and nutrient absorption, so imbalances may contribute to weight management difficulties.
1.2.8Â Â Trouble sleeping: Disruptions in gut health can affect sleep patterns, leading to difficulties falling or staying asleep.
1.2.9Â Â Sugar cravings: Imbalances in gut bacteria can influence cravings for sugary foods, potentially leading to unhealthy eating habits.
1.2.10Â Â Bad breath: Persistent bad breath may be a sign of bacterial overgrowth or digestive issues within the gut.
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1.3Â What is the gut microbiome and how it impacts our health? [6,7]
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The gut microbiome refers to the vast community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, that reside in our digestive tract, primarily the large intestine. There are roughly 10 times more bacterial cells than the number of human cells in our body. This intricate ecosystem plays a pivotal role in maintaining our health and well-being in several ways:
1.3.1Â Â Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: The gut microbiome aids in the digestion of dietary components that our bodies cannot break down, such as certain fibers and complex carbohydrates. Additionally, it helps metabolize nutrients and produce essential vitamins, such as vitamin K and some B vitamins, which are then absorbed by our bodies.
1.3.2Â Â Immune System Regulation: The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in training and modulating our immune system. It helps to distinguish between harmful pathogens and beneficial microbes, thereby promoting a balanced immune response. A healthy gut microbiome can reduce the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases by maintaining immune tolerance and preventing inflammatory responses.
1.3.3Â Â Protection Against Pathogens: Beneficial microbes in the gut microbiome can compete with and inhibit the growth of harmful pathogens, helping to protect the body from infections and diseases. This competitive exclusion mechanism is vital for maintaining gut health and preventing the colonization of harmful bacteria.
1.3.4Â Â Metabolism and Weight Regulation: Emerging research suggests that the composition of the gut microbiome may influence metabolism and energy regulation. Certain microbes may be associated with increased energy extraction from food, potentially contributing to weight gain or obesity. Conversely, a diverse and balanced gut microbiome may support metabolic health and weight management.
1.3.5Â Â Gut-Brain Axis [8]: There is a bidirectional communication pathway between the gut and the brain known as the gut-brain axis. The gut microbiome plays a key role in this communication, producing neurotransmitters and signaling molecules that can influence brain function, mood, and behavior. Imbalances in the gut microbiome have been linked to mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and stress-related conditions.
Overall, the gut microbiome is a dynamic and essential component of human health, impacting various physiological processes ranging from digestion and metabolism to immune function and mental well-being. Maintaining a diverse and balanced gut microbiome through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle habits is crucial for promoting overall health and preventing disease.
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1.4Â Signs and Causes of Indigestion: A common gut health worry
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A discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen during or after eating is referred to as dyspepsia or in simple terms indigestion. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases [9], we may experience a range of symptoms with different severity and duration if we have indigestion such as:
- Pain, a burning feeling, or discomfort in your upper abdomen
- Feeling full after eating a small amount of food
- Feeling uncomfortably full after eating a meal
- Bloating
- Burping
- Burping up food or liquid
- Loud growling or gurgling in your stomach
- Nausea
- Gas
Causes of indigestion can vary and may include [10]:
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Overeating: Consuming large meals or eating too quickly can overwhelm the digestive system, leading to indigestion.
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Fatty or Spicy Foods: High-fat or spicy foods can irritate the digestive tract and trigger indigestion symptoms in some individuals.
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Acidic Foods: Foods that contain a lot of acid, such as tomatoes, tomato products, and oranges can also cause indigestion.
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Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the stomach lining and contribute to indigestion.
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Smoking: Smoking can increase stomach acid production and weaken the lower oesophageal sphincter, leading to acid reflux and indigestion.
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Coffee and other drinks: Too much coffee, too many drinks containing caffeine, and carbonated or fizzy drinks can all result in indigestion.
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Stress: Emotional or psychological stress can affect digestive function and exacerbate indigestion symptoms.
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Medications: Certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antibiotics, and some heart medications, can cause indigestion as a side effect.
- Underlying Digestive Disorders: Indigestion may also be a symptom of underlying digestive disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, gastritis, or gallstones.
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1.5Â Â How to relieve indigestion? [11]
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Relieving indigestion typically involves lifestyle changes and home remedies to ease the symptoms and promote digestive health. Here are some tips:
1.5.1Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Healthy eating habits
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Consuming smaller meals throughout the day instead of large, heavy meals can help prevent overloading the digestive system and reduce indigestion symptoms.
• Chew food thoroughly: Take your time to chew food thoroughly and avoid swallowing large chunks, as this can aid digestion and reduce the risk of indigestion.
•  Avoid trigger foods: Identify and avoid foods that trigger indigestion symptoms, such as fatty or spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, and carbonated beverages.
•  Eat slowly: Take your time to eat meals slowly and mindfully, allowing your body to properly digest food and reducing the risk of indigestion.
•  Avoid lying down after eating: Wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed to allow food to properly digest and reduce the risk of acid reflux and indigestion. These healthy eating habits can transform your gut game and you probably won’t face any gut issues like indigestion in the first place.
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1.5.2Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Correcting drinking habits
•  Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day and stay hydrated to help maintain proper digestion and prevent dehydration, which can worsen indigestion symptoms.
•  Limit caffeine and alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and increase stomach acid production, exacerbating indigestion symptoms. Limit consumption of these substances, especially close to bedtime.
1.5.3Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Overall lifestyle changes
•  Manage stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness to help reduce stress levels, which can exacerbate indigestion symptoms.
•  Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can put pressure on the stomach and increase the risk of indigestion. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
1.5.4Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Additional medical care
•  Consider over-the-counter remedies: Antacids or other over-the-counter medications may help relieve indigestion symptoms, but it's essential to use them as directed and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
•  Identify underlying conditions: If indigestion persists despite lifestyle changes and home remedies, consult a healthcare professional to rule out underlying digestive conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or peptic ulcers, which may require specific treatment.
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1.6  Digestive Enzymes: Nature’s helpers for better digestion
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Digestive enzymes are specialized proteins produced by the body to break down food into smaller, absorbable components during digestion. These enzymes play a vital role in breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into simpler molecules that can be absorbed and utilized by the body for energy and nourishment. Types of digestive enzymes include amylase, glucoamylase, alpha-galactosidase and invertase (for carbohydrates including sugars), lipase (for fats), protease and papain (for proteins), lactase (for lactose in dairy products), cellulose and hemicellulase (for plant fibers), phytase (for phytic acid in plants), etc. These enzymes are primarily produced in the pancreas and released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
1.7Â Â Types and benefits of digestive enzymes [12,13]
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As there are several different enzymes produced by the body, each one of them has its allotted macronutrient to act upon. Each enzyme functions in a way that is beneficial for digestion. Let’s understand the functions and benefits of digestive enzymes:
Sr. No. |
Name of digestive enzyme |
Function |
Benefits |
1.7.1Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Amylase |
Breaks down carbohydrates (starches) into simple sugars like glucose. |
Facilitates carbohydrate digestion and energy production. |
1.7.2Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Glucoamylase |
Breaks down complex carbohydrates into glucose molecules. |
Aids in the digestion of starches and supports blood sugar regulation. |
1.7.3Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Cellulase |
Breaks down cellulose, a type of fiber found in plant cell walls, into simpler sugars. |
Helps digest plant-based foods and improves overall digestion and gut health. |
1.7.4Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Hemicellulase |
Breaks down hemicellulose, a component of plant cell walls, into simpler sugars. |
Supports the digestion of dietary fiber and promotes gut health. |
1.7.5Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Alpha galactosidase |
Breaks down complex carbohydrates found in foods like beans and legumes. |
Reduces gas and bloating associated with the digestion of certain foods. |
1.7.6Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Invertase |
Converts sucrose (table sugar) into glucose and fructose. |
Helps break down sucrose for easier digestion and absorption. |
1.7.7Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Lactase |
Digests lactose, the sugar found in dairy products, into glucose and galactose. |
Helps individuals with lactose intolerance digest dairy products without discomfort. |
1.7.8Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Protease |
Breaks down proteins into amino acids. |
Supports muscle repair, immune function, and overall protein digestion. |
1.7.9Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Papain |
Derived from papaya, breaks down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. |
Supports protein digestion, reduces digestive discomfort, and may have anti-inflammatory properties. |
1.7.10Â Â Â |
Lipase |
Digests fats into fatty acids and glycerol for absorption. |
Supports fat digestion, absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, and overall lipid metabolism. |
1.7.11Â Â Â |
Phytase |
Breaks down phytic acid found in grains and seeds, releasing bound minerals for absorption. |
Improves mineral absorption, particularly calcium, magnesium, and zinc, from plant-based foods. |
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1.8Â Understanding probiotics and prebiotics with their benefits [14]
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms, usually bacteria or yeast, that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. These beneficial bacteria help maintain a healthy balance of gut microbiota by crowding out harmful bacteria, supporting digestion, and boosting the immune system. They are commonly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha, as well as in dietary supplements.
- Balance the Gut Flora: Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria by crowding out harmful microorganisms and promoting the growth of beneficial ones.
- Improves Digestion: They aid in the breakdown of food, making it easier for your body to digest and absorb nutrients, which can reduce digestive discomfort like bloating and gas.
- Boosts Immune System: Probiotics stimulate the production of antibodies and enhance immune function, helping your body defend against infections and illnesses.
- Reduces Inflammation: Certain strains of probiotics have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Enhances Mental Health: The gut-brain connection is real, and probiotics may play a role in improving mood and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression by influencing neurotransmitter production in the gut.
Prebiotics: Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for probiotics and other beneficial bacteria in the gut. Unlike probiotics, prebiotics are not living organisms but rather indigestible carbohydrates that pass through the digestive system intact, reaching the colon where they are fermented by gut bacteria. This fermentation process produces short-chain fatty acids, which nourish the cells lining the colon and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics are found in foods such as garlic, onions, leeks, bananas, asparagus, chicory root, and whole grains.
Benefits of Prebiotics:
- Feeds Good Bacteria: Prebiotics serve as food for probiotics and other beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting their growth and activity.
- Supports Gut Health: By nourishing the beneficial bacteria in your gut, prebiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut microbiota, which is essential for optimal digestion and overall gut health.
- Improves Nutrient Absorption: Prebiotics enhance the absorption of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc, as well as other nutrients, by supporting the health of the intestinal lining.
- Regulates Blood Sugar: Some prebiotics, like soluble fiber, can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose and improving insulin sensitivity.
- Reduces Risk of Chronic Diseases: Consuming prebiotics regularly may lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer by supporting overall gut health and immune function.
1.9Â Gut health boosters: Conventional foods and gut health supplements
Sr. No. |
Gut health boosters |
Sources from conventional foods |
Sources from gut health supplements |
1.9.1Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Digestive enzymes [15] |
Pineapple, Papaya, Kiwi, Mango, Avocado |
Digestive Enzyme Supplements, Papain, Bromelain |
1.9.2Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Probiotics [16] |
Yogurt, Fermented Foods, Kefir |
Probiotic Supplements, Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium |
1.9.3Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Prebiotics [17] |
Garlic, Onions, Bananas, Asparagus |
Prebiotic Supplements, Inulin, Fructooligosaccharides |
1.9.4Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Fiber [18] |
Whole Grains, Fruits, Vegetables |
Fiber Supplements, Psyllium Husk, Oat Bran |
1.9.5Â Â Â Â Â Â Â |
Licorice extract [19] |
Licorice Root |
Supplements with Licorice Root Extract |
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1.10 The combination of digestive enzymes and probiotics – what are the benefits and how to use them safely [20]
Combining digestive enzymes with probiotics can offer numerous health benefits, supporting optimal digestion and overall gut health. Here's a summary of the collective benefits and tips for safe usage:
Collective Health Benefits:
- Enhanced Digestion: Digestive enzymes help break down macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) into smaller, absorbable molecules, while probiotics maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, collectively promoting efficient digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Reduced Digestive Discomfort: The combination of digestive enzymes and probiotics can alleviate symptoms of digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, indigestion, and constipation by supporting the breakdown of food and maintaining good gut microbes.
- Improved Nutrient Absorption: By aiding in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, digestive enzymes, and probiotics ensure that your body can effectively extract essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients from food, supporting overall health and well-being.
- Enhanced Immune Function: A healthy gut is closely linked to a strong immune system. Digestive enzymes and probiotics work synergistically to support immune function by promoting a balanced gut microbiota and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Balanced Gut Microbiota: The combination of digestive enzymes and probiotics helps maintain a diverse and balanced population of good gut microbes, which is crucial for optimal digestion, immune function, and overall gut health.
Tips for Safe Usage:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional if you have a medical condition: Before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safety and efficacy.
- Choose High-Quality Products: Look for digestive enzyme and probiotic supplements from reputable brands that undergo rigorous testing for potency, purity, and safety. Choose products that contain clinically studied strains of probiotics and a broad spectrum of digestive enzymes.
- Follow Dosage Instructions: Follow the dosage instructions provided on the supplement label or as recommended by your healthcare provider. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase if needed, as individual tolerance may vary.
- Monitor for Side Effects: While digestive enzymes and probiotics are generally safe for most people, some individuals may experience mild side effects such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, particularly when first starting supplementation. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
- Consider Timing and Storage: Take digestive enzyme and probiotic supplements as directed, typically with meals for digestive enzymes and on an empty stomach or as directed for probiotics. Store supplements according to the manufacturer's instructions to maintain potency and efficacy.
1.11Â Lifestyle changes for better gut health [21]
Now that we know the importance of maintaining good gut health, let’s understand how to improve digestion naturally at home with simple lifestyle changes.
- Eat a Variety of Foods: Enjoy a mix of fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Foods high in fiber keep digestion smooth and help your gut bacteria thrive.
- Drink Water: Stay hydrated by sipping water throughout the day. Herbal teas and fruit-infused water can also benefit your gut health.
- Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle exercises such as yoga. Stress can disrupt digestion, so finding ways to unwind is important.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise supports overall health and digestion. It can help with regular bowel movements and reduce bloating and constipation.
- Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Establish bedtime routines and avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol before bed.
- Watch Your Intake: Be mindful of alcohol and caffeine consumption as they can irritate your digestive system. Opt for hydrating drinks and herbal teas instead.
- Quit Smoking: If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking can disrupt digestion and harm your gut bacteria.
- Eat Mindfully: Slow down and pay attention to your meals. Chew your food thoroughly, enjoy each bite, and listen to your body's hunger and fullness signals.
- Limit Processed Foods: Cut back on processed foods, refined carbs, and added sugars. These can upset your gut bacteria and cause inflammation in your digestive system.
- Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling with persistent digestive issues, consult healthcare professionals like dietitians or gastroenterologists. They can provide personalized advice to improve your gut health and overall well-being.
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1.12Â Conclusion
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Our digestive health is a very important base on which the pillar of our whole body depends. To summarize what we gained in this blog, we first need to acknowledge the importance of gut health. An unhealthy gut impacts on our overall health badly and our body gives physical signals to help us identify the issues. As soon as we observe these signals from our gut, it's crucial to take action to improve our digestive health. By making simple yet effective lifestyle changes such as adopting a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress, and being mindful of our eating habits, we can support our gut health and enhance our overall well-being. Additionally, incorporating gut-friendly foods and supplements for gut health, along with seeking professional guidance when needed, can further optimize our digestive health. Remember, our gut health is the foundation of our body's vitality, so prioritizing it is key to living a healthier and happier life. Let's listen to our bodies, pay attention to the signals they send, and take proactive steps to nurture our digestive health for a brighter and healthier future.
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1.13Â About Healthyr-U Advanced Digestive Enzymes + Probiotic Tablets
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Healthyr-U vs other brands
Healthyr-U |
Other brands |
•    Unique blend of 11 digestive enzymes |
•    Limited digestive enzymes |
•    Dual benefits in a single tablet (enzymes & probiotics) |
•    Contains either digestive enzymes or probiotics |
•    One tablet digests all macronutrients |
•    One tablet digests only a few macronutrients |
•    First time in India formulation |
•    Generic formulations |
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Healthyr-U Advanced Digestive Enzymes + Probiotic Tablets is one-of-a-kind gut health supplement with a formulation that has been introduced first time in India. It supports effective digestion and promotes a good gut microbiome. These tablets are vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO. The 11 digestive enzymes in the tablet act on a broad range of complex food components like protein, carbohydrates, fats & non-starch polysaccharides ensuring ingested food is broken down and absorbed properly. The probiotics help maintain the gut environment by keeping away harmful microbes. One tablet after each meal is the recommended usage (not to consume more than 3 tablets a day). This supplement is good for easing indigestion, facilitating better nutrient absorption, maintaining gut microflora, boosting immunity, and increasing energy levels.
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1.14 References:
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