The intestinal microbiota is made up of a set of bacteria, viruses, parasites and non-pathogenic fungi. It plays a role in digestive, metabolic, immune and neurological functions, as explained by Inserm. When it is unbalanced, symptoms similar to digestive disorders may appear: abdominal cramps, bloatingdiarrhea, constipation, flatulence… This is why it is essential to pamper your intestines by adopting a good diet. In a recent video posted on Tik Tok, gastroenterologist Saurabh Sethi, also known as @doctorsethimd on social media, shared five ingredients to incorporate into your daily life to maintain good intestinal health.
Intestinal health: what to put on your plate to preserve it?
The benefits of spices and plants on intestinal health are numerous. In his video, the gastroenterologist lists five:
Ginger
This spice, native to India, China and Malaysia, is renowned for its many medicinal properties. It helps in particular to maintain a healthy digestive system. According to the gastroenterologist, “ginger contains a bioactive compound called gingerol, which has significant anti-inflammatory benefits and may help reduce intestinal inflammation.” Ginger is also known to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which can promote more efficient digestion of food.
Peppermint
The pepper mint contains menthol“which has antispasmodic properties, and which can help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract and thus promote healthy digestion”, explains the expert in his video. This plant is also used to relieve various digestive disorders such as bloating, flatulence or nausea. It should also be avoided if you suffer from gastric reflux according to the gastroenterologist.
Turmeric
Very easy to integrate into your dishes, turmeric is a spice that contains a bioactive compound called “curcumin”. It is “a powerful natural anti-inflammatory that can help reduce inflammation”, indicates the gastroenterologist. Curcumin is also a great ally, because it strengthens the intestinal barrier by promoting the production of protective mucus in the intestine.
Chamomile
In the form of an infusion, ointment, lotion or inhalation, chamomile is a plant that has many benefits. According to the gastroenterologist, “it contains apigenin, a natural compound that can help improve gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.” It is also equipped with flavonoids which have an anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic action.
Fennel
Fennel is a plant that can be eaten in both savory dishes and sweet desserts. As the expert states, it contains anethole, a compound that can help relax muscle in the gastrointestinal tract. It is also a source of dietary fiber, which promotes good intestinal transit.
@doctorsethimd 5 Natural Herbs I Use For My Own Gut Health As A Gastroenterologist Doctor. Always talk to your own doctor before making any dietary or lifestyle changes. #guthealth #naturalremedies #health #healthtok
Additional source:
- Intestinal microbiota: A serious avenue for understanding the origin of many diseases – Inserm
