Certain supplements are especially important for digestive health, as they are often used to replace components of our digestion that are no longer functioning. Probiotics and prebiotics are two of the most important supplements you can take to help restore healthy digestion. Probiotics provide live strains of friendly flora to balance the bad bacteria in your gut – bacteria which, if unchecked, can contribute to chronic diarrhea, flatulence, or constipation. Prebiotics, on the other hand, will ensure that your friendly florae are provided with the proper environment in which they can thrive.
Herbal support is probably the most helpful for restoring digestive strength. In my clinic, I like to use an integrative digestive tonic based on ancient Eastern digestive herbal formulas. It integrates herbs, medicinal mushrooms, digestive enzymes and minerals as well as other natural components to aid in treating the root causes of weak digestion, while simultaneously addressing common issues that result from such weakness.
The applications of this combination in enhancing digestion are comprehensive – it ignites, warms and supports the entire digestive tract. It also helps to redirect the digestive energy in the stomach downward, reducing belching, flatulence, occasional heartburn and fullness, and improving the absorption of vitamins and minerals from your food. You can even expect improvement in any number of conditions related to poor digestion – such as skin allergies, fatigue and retention of fluids.
Supplement Doses and Action Properties
Here are several of the key nutrients I recommend for keeping your digestive system strong and healthy. This protocol – accompanied by a balanced, organic diet and calming relaxation time whenever you can – is one of your best natural means of ensuring strong digestion, a healthy gut, and an immune system functioning at its peak.
Nutrient or Herb
Comprehensive digestive formula
General Use (Total amounts per day)
2-4 caps per day with food
Highlighted Properties
- Improves digestive strength
- Increases digestive enzymes
- Improves nutrient absorption
- Reduces acid reflux
Nutrient or Herb
Full spectrum probiotic formula
General Use (Total amounts per day)
As directed
Highlighted Properties
- Improves digestive strength
- Increases beneficial flora
- Improves nutrient absorption
Nutrient or Herb
Prebiotic formula
General Use (Total amounts per day)
As directed
Highlighted Properties
- Improves digestive strength
- Increases beneficial flora
- Improves nutrient absorption