By Ella O.; Nutrition Advisor
Discover our in-house nutritionist tips for common digestive symptoms.*
It is thought that 1 in 5 people in the UK suffer from common digestive symptoms - including those linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Mild digestive upsets, bloating and discomfort may result from a combination of factors such as stress, lack of movement, food sensitivities or an impaired microbiome - sometimes known as gut dysbiosis.
To help relieve IBS symptoms there are some general tips one can follow: Cook homemade meals using fresh ingredients when you can, keep a diary of what you eat and any symptoms you get – try to avoid things that trigger your IBS, find ways to relax, get plenty of exercise and try probiotics for at least month to see if they help.
Some herbs and spices are traditionally recognised as carminative – suggesting that they may offer support for the digestion of foods and act as a calming agent and provide relief from a build-up of intestinal gas. These include Chamomile, Oregano and Ginger.
Often taken in the form of tea, Chamomile has traditionally been known for its gentle nature and is thought to be an especially calming botanical for the digestive system and nervous system. Nature’s Answer Chamomile Flowers is an alcohol-free liquid extract supplying a potent concentration of 2,400 mg pure Chamomile Extract per serving, and may be taken up to three times a day.
Oregano oil has been traditionally used to support immunity, digestion, and a healthy gut microbiome. Research shows that the active constituents, Carvacrol and Thymol, found in Oregano oil exhibit anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities. The word Oregano is a derivation from the Greek words ‘Oros’ meaning mountain, and ‘Ganos’ meaning joy, it’s name means ‘mountain of joy’! Nature’s Answer brings you the unique benefits of wild Mediterranean Oregano in convenient, Oil of Oregano soft-gels. Sustainably sourced, Oregano leaf is standardised to provide a guaranteed amount of 7mg of Carvacrol per serving.
Nature’s Answer offers an alcohol-free pure Ginger Root Extract as well as their popular Bitters & Ginger Combination. Bitter herbs are traditionally used to support digestion by stimulating the production of gastric juices and bile. These bitters stimulate the taste buds to produce a reflex action – initiating secretions of digestive juices.
Nature’s Answer Bitters & Ginger Combination is a unique blend of herbs including Astragalus Root, Centaury Aerial Parts, Gentian Root, Ginger Root, Rosemary Leaf, Fennel Seed and Cardamon Seed and may be taken 30 minutes before a meal. Nature's Answer extracts are produced through a cold Bio-Chelated® proprietary extraction process, yielding a Holistically Balanced® standardised extract. This enables the plant to retain its natural active components and avoids the commonly used harsh solvents or heat.
Which probiotics and prebiotics may be helpful for those with IBS?
Garden of Life Microbiome Formulas contain a carefully selected blend of well researched diverse Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria strains, offering 50 billion live bacteria cultures per capsule. Dr Perlmutter's formulas contain the prebiotic organic acacia, thus avoiding the commonly used fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS). Avoiding FOS minimises side effects such as bloating and provides better overall digestive comfort. Garden of Life Microbiome Formulas are suitable for those following a Low FODMAP diet -a diet often followed by those suffering from symptoms linked to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Organic Traditions Probiotic Sorghum Cereals are plant powered, nutrient dense, probiotic, pre-biotic and gluten free. Formulated to support optimal digestion, they are enhanced with the gut-friendly, premium probiotic strain Bacillus Coagulans. This shelf stable beneficial bacteria does not require refrigeration and can be added to both hot and cold drinks and recipes. Organic Traditions Probiotic Sorghum Cereals contain the pre-biotic organic acacia and is packed with fibre and omega-3 fatty acids from organic milled flax, chai and hemp seeds. The cereals come in four varieties: Triple Berry Blend, Tropical Lucuma Baobab, Golden Turmeric, and Chocolate Coconut Crunch.
Enjoy as a delicious breakfast or snack with your favourite milk, or topped over yoghurt, oats, fruit or smoothies for a high fibre, probiotic boost.
Click here for tips on enhancing your mood and learn about the gut-brain connection.
*Any claims mentioned in this blog are based on research and are not aimed to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Food supplements should be used within the framework of a healthy lifestyle and not used as substitutes of a varied and balanced diet.
