Digestion in balance

With calcium, herbs & probiotics

In one of our last newsletters, we reported on the benefits of fermentative raw materials on intestinal health. This time we would like to take a closer look at the topic of healthy digestion and what options are available in the area of food supplements to support digestion.

Digestive system - structure & function

The path of food

The digestive system is made up of many different organs. It begins in the oral cavity, where the first enzymes begin to break down the food via the saliva. The food is then transported via the oesophagus into the stomach, where it is further broken down into its individual components by the acidic environment of gastric acid and other enzymes. In the small intestine, mainly nutrients are then absorbed, and in the large intestine the body removes water and electrolytes from the food pulp; the remainder is converted into stool.

The liver, gall bladder and pancreas are also involved in digestion. These produce enzymes and digestive juices. The liver also plays an important role in detoxifying the body.

With so many organs involved, there are a variety of ways to specifically support digestion.

Natural digestive aid

Focus on nutrients, plants & biotics

Calcium - a key substance for digestive enzymes

Calcium is an important nutrient for healthy digestion. This is covered by the EFSA Health Claim: "Calcium contributes to the normal function of digestive enzymes."

Calcium serves as a cofactor for digestive enzymes such as amylase and lipase. It is also said to have a positive effect on intestinal motility. A calcium deficiency can therefore lead to digestive disorders such as diarrhea or constipation. Calcium tablets can therefore be a useful supplement if you want to support your digestion.

Herbal helpers: fennel, yarrow and caraway

Plant powders such as fennel, yarrow and caraway can be combined well with calcium in a capsule to support the stomach. Fennel traditionally has a digestive and antispasmodic effect and is often used for flatulence, bloating and stomach cramps.

Yarrow is also said to stimulate the production of gastric and bile juice thanks to its bitter substances. It is also considered to be antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and appetizing. Caraway, on the other hand, is a tried and tested household remedy for gastrointestinal complaints and has been used since ancient times.

Targeted support for the liver and gall bladder

If the aim is to support the liver and gall bladder, preparations containing ingredients such as milk thistle, dandelion, artichoke and choline are often recommended.

Choline has been shown to contribute to normal fat metabolism and the maintenance of healthy liver function. Milk thistle is said to have protective properties for the liver. Artichoke and dandelion are said to stimulate the production of bile.

Capsule products are suitable here - but powder products such as our Detoxifying Elixir, e.g. with ingredients such as nettle, dandelion and black radish, can also provide positive support for liver health.

Strengthen intestinal flora with pre- and probiotics

Healthy digestion begins in the microcosm of the intestine: billions of beneficial bacteria live there, which are crucial for digestion, the immune system and general well-being.

Probiotics - i.e. live microorganisms such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium - play a key role here: they can help to stabilize the balance of the intestinal flora. Prebiotics, such as certain dietary fibres or amino acids, in turn serve as "food" for these beneficial bacteria and promote their activity.

Postbiotics are also currently a real trend. They consist of inactivated ("killed") microorganisms and/or substances produced during their metabolic activity. Our partner SynBalance not only supplies us with high-quality raw materials from this segment, but the Italian company is also a leading expert in the field of biotics.

We have conducted an interview with Michele Dello Russo from SynBalance on the trending topic of postbiotics and their benefits - read on!

Read the SynBalance interview

Our intestinal flora capsules contain a targeted combination of different probiotic bacterial strains as well as L-glutamine, which helps to support the intestinal mucosa. The formula is supplemented by cellulase, an enzyme that breaks down plant fibers and can accompany microbial activity.

This combination is intended to have a holistic effect: The microbial balance in the intestine can be supported, the barrier function strengthened and a contribution made to normal digestion - especially in times of increased stress.

Gut and psyche - a delicate balance

Many people are not even aware that the gut not only plays a central role in digestion, but also in the psyche. What we feel is often reflected in our gut - and vice versa. The proverbial "gut feeling" is therefore no coincidence.

Research shows: Via the so-called gut-brain axis the digestive system and the brain are in a close dialog - mediated via nerve connections, immune cells and messenger substances such as serotonin, over 90 % of which is produced in the gut.

A diverse intestinal flora can positively support this dialog. Conversely, prolonged stress, anxiety, lack of sleep - and an unbalanced diet with lots of additives - can easily upset the balance of the sensitive microbiota. This can have an impact not only on digestion, but also on our mental well-being.

This is precisely why a conscious, gut-friendly diet - especially in the morning - plays a crucial role. After all, how we start the day not only affects our energy levels, but also the balance in our gut.

Breakfast shakes

High in fiber and intestine-friendly

A good start to the day begins in the stomach. Our oat-based breakfast shakes not only provide plant-based protein, but also soluble fiber such as inulin from chicory - a prebiotic nutrient that can specifically promote the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria.

At the heart of the recipe are Oat flakes and wholemeal oat flour - real all-rounders for digestion. They provide the body with long-chain carbohydrates, beta-glucans and fibre, which can satiate, stabilize blood sugar and gently stimulate the intestines.

In addition, the apple-cinnamon and blueberry-coconut contain selected ingredients such as fruit juice powder and dates. The result: a wholesome, high-fibre meal that can be prepared with water in no time at all - ideal for a healthy start to the day.

All in all, our newsletter shows you that it's not just love that goes through the stomach, but also health.

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