The more we study the gut, the more complex we find it is. Did you know that the surface area of the heart is the size of an entire tennis court?

And within critical areas of this system, particularly in the small and large intestines, we have what they're calling a gut microbiome. This is a fragile network of bacteria, possibly more extensive in number than the human cells we contain. 

Every day researchers are discovering more critical functions of the microbiome. Researchers are even on the verge of labeling the gut microbiome as a separate organ system. This is because of the way it modulates processes in the digestive, immune, and nervous systems.

It's no secret that digestive issues are currently plaguing the world. Acid reflux, heartburn, constipation, and IBS symptoms are why we should thoroughly study gut health supplements. 

Given the importance of digestion for existing as a healthy human in the world, we decided to explore some top suggestions in the way of gut health supplements.

Probiotics 

Best to start with the basics. Many of us have heard of and even tried probiotics.

Probiotics are essential for replenishing a healthy supply of beneficial bacteria within our gut microbiome. Why is this necessary?

Some believe living in a modern, industrialized world has removed a large portion of our ancestral gut microbiome. From chronic stress to the chlorine in our water supply, there are various stressors that our friendly gut bugs struggle to tolerate.

The gut is often in dire need of help. A solid probiotic supplement is often an excellent place to start. 

Like our Wild Prebiotic & Probiotic, a good probiotic is wise to get your hands on. New from Wild Foods, this breakthrough supplement is for women and men looking to enjoy all of the benefits unique to premium strains of prebiotics, probiotics, and digestive enzymes.

This probiotic supports healthy digestion, immunity, and reduced cramping/bloating. It also provides essential digestive enzymes that promote gut, skin, and hair health.

Collagen and Vitamin C

Collagen has gained popularity in various anti-aging concoctions, from smoothies to juices to lattes. It's well-regarded as the premier solution for solid skin, hair, and joints.

We carry our Wild Collagen Peptides Powder for a good reason. This stuff is fantastic for supporting connective tissue and even supporting muscle growth.

But did you know that collagen peptides are also crucial for rebuilding and supporting the integrity of the gut lining? Studies have confirmed that "The effect of collagen peptides (CPs) in intestinal mucosal protection has been approved in both cell and animal models." 

Protecting the mucosa lining is critical to avoiding a newly researched phenomenon known as a leaky gut syndrome. Researchers are beginning to believe that a leaky gut called intestinal permeability can lead to various issues, from autoimmune disease to chronic depression. 

So, where does vitamin C come into all of this? It turns out vitamin C is essential for collagen synthesis. It's the glue that holds it all together, if you would.

Without vitamin C, the body has a lot of trouble forming collagen. We suggest supplementing collagen from whole food sources for the sake of bioavailability. Camu Camu is an excellent option. 

Zinc L-Carnosine 

This form of zinc is relatively new to the scientific community. So far, it seems very promising as a gut health supplement. For instance, according to a study that was only released last year, "there are multiple studies that indicate ZnC's benefits in rebuilding the gastric lining, healing other portions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, correcting taste problems, treating GI disorders, and enhancing skin and liver."

One such study compared the intestinal linings of people performing an exercise, which can break apart epithelial cells in the gut. Researchers found that those who took zinc l-carnosine were more resistant to exercise-induced harm to the heart. 

Zinc L-Carnosine is usually found and taken in capsule form. Dosages average at around 75 to 100 mg per day. 

Un-Defatted Desiccated Beef Liver

Liver meats have been prized for thousands of years by indigenous traditions worldwide. The liver is so nutrient-dense that some call it "nature's multivitamin." Abundant in essential B vitamins, CoQ10, iron, and minerals, the liver proves a nutritious boon for a malnourished world. 

Regarding being a gut health supplement, we should focus on beef liver's abundant source of bioavailable vitamin A called retinol. Beta-carotene, which comes from plant foods such as sweet potatoes and carrots, is only a precursor to vitamin A.

Everybody's body has a unique capacity for converting beta-carotene into vitamin A. So why is vitamin A in the form of retinol essential for gut health?

A prospective randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the effects of retinol on intestinal barrier function mentions, "The role of vitamin A in the immune response, maintenance of mucosal cells and overall development is well accepted."

The maintenance and development of mucosal cells are crucial for gut health. It's vital to the integrity of the gut microbiome, the gut lining, and disease prevention (via preventing leaky gut syndrome). 

Final Thoughts on Gut Health Supplements 

The basis for a well-functioning gut is healthy eating, plenty of exercise, sunshine, hydration, etc. After establishing a solid foundation in healthy lifestyle choices, feel free to test out gut health supplements. They're the icing on the cake. 

Most of the supplements listed above can be found in capsule form. Always seek the best quality possible, avoiding fillers, additives, and other junk you wouldn't usually put in your body.

It's counterintuitive to take something to fix your gut when it contains ingredients that could potentially harm it.

If this all seems overwhelming, remember that probiotics are an excellent jumping-off point. Our probiotics are bioavailable and contain prebiotics.

You can think of prebiotics as an ideal food source for the probiotic bacteria traveling long distances through your insides!