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- 3 Best Supplements To Take For A Healthy Gut, According To Doctors: Probiotics, Fiber, Omega-3 (shefinds.com)
Good gut health is more than just good digestion; it’s crucial for overall well-being, impacting everything from weight management to mental clarity. While a probiotic-rich diet is key, daily supplements can provide an extra boost.
Registered dietitian Destini Moody and Dr. Edmond Hakimi, a board-certified internal medicine physician, recommend three key supplements for a healthy gut:
1. Fiber: Fiber supplements are digestive heroes.
They promote regularity and nourish beneficial gut bacteria, creating a thriving gut microbiome. Fiber also increases satiety, helping control appetite and potentially contributing to weight loss.
“Fiber supplements, like Metamucil, act as a prebiotic, nourishing good gut bacteria and playing a major role in weight management,” says Moody. “Because fiber isn’t absorbed by the body, it slows digestion, promoting a feeling of fullness and potentially reducing food intake.”
2. Probiotics: Probiotics are essential for gut health, metabolism, and weight management.
These supplements contain beneficial bacteria that restore balance to the gut microbiome, improving digestion and nutrient absorption. “Probiotics enrich the body’s natural gut bacteria,” explains Moody.
“A diverse and robust population of good bacteria contributes to overall health.”
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s, especially EPA and DHA, increase fat oxidation, helping the body break down fat for energy and potentially reducing overall body fat, including abdominal fat.
“Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may assist in fat metabolism, potentially reducing visceral fat,” says Dr. Hakimi.
He adds that omega-3s improve insulin sensitivity, leading to more efficient energy use and fat burning. When combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, omega-3s can be a valuable tool in reducing belly fat.