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We’re hearing a lot about gut health these days and about all of the anti-inflammatory foods that can help balance good and bad bacteria in our gut. But, there’s one old-school health concern that is still crucial and often overlooked: Digestion. Your digestive health is super important to your overall health and well being and is actually connected to your gut.
When experts talk about the “gut,” they’re referring to the intestinal tract, which includes the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, Dr. William Katkov, a gastroenterologist at Providence St. John’s Health Center, told The Active Times.
Why is digestion so important? Simple — 70 percent of the body’s immune system resides in the gut and digestive system, Certified Holistic Health Counselor Megan Pennington told The Active Times.
“When the immune system is compromised, such as is the case when gut health is compromised, we are at increased risk for autoimmune diseases, bacterial overgrowth, colds, flus, cancer, allergies and many other conditions,” Pennington says.
The right foods—as well as these five vitamins you should be taking for faster digestion—can help keep your digestive system and gut healthy and well.
Spring Valley Vitamin B1 Tablets ($3.96)
It's possible to get all of the essential nutrients you need from diet alone. But if you worry that your diet isn't balanced and want to rely on vitamin supplements for better digestion, your B vitamins are a good place to start.
This vitamin B1 supplement, also known as thiamine, helps regulate appetite and converts carbohydrates from your food into energy for your cells, according to Everyday Health. This gluten-free supplement supports your metabolism and nervous system.
Spring Valley Niacin Capsules ($5.94)
Another important B vitamin, niacin (also called vitamin B3) breaks down carbohydrates, fats, and alcohol from your food. Niacin also helps form new red blood cells and increases hydrochloric acid in your stomach, which is necessary for proper digestion.
Nature Made VItamin Chewable C ($5.44)
We're told to take more vitamin C when we feel a cold coming on, which may or may not actually be helpful, but there's one fact about vitamin C that is true: It aids the body in absorbing iron, which helps your digestive system run properly.
Nature Made Vitamin D3 Softgels ($12.88)
It can be tough to get enough vitamin D, particularly if you are vegan or try to stay out of the sun. Taking a vitamin D supplement will help your body absorb calcium, which keeps your bones healthy and decreases your risk of getting colon cancer.
Align Probiotic Supplement ($43.98)
Though not technically a vitamin, no list of supplements for digestion would be complete without a quality probiotic. Adding live bacteria and yeasts to your digestive system balances the good and bad bacteria in your gut and can help with a host of health concerns that range from irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease to oral health and possibly even skin conditions like eczema, according to WebMD. Include a probiotic supplement to your daily regimen and your digestive system will automatically improve.
For more tips on digestions, check out 4 Foods for better digestion and 4 Hot drinks to have in the morning for better digestion all day on SHEFinds.com.
