SUPER SUPPS!
Give your gut some love with the best prebiotic and probiotic supplements.
THE TERM “GUT microbiome” refers to the bacteria living in your gut. ‘Although other areas of the body have their own microbiomes, the gut microbiome is especially important because it links to so many other body systems, such as the immune system and brain,’ says Jo Travers, dietitian for Love Your Gut (loveyourgut.com).
PRE VERSUS PROBIOTICS
One way to build a healthy and diverse gut microbiome is to supplement with prebiotics and probiotics. ‘Prebiotics are the foods that bacteria thrive on, specifically fibre. Any food with a lot of fibre, such as beans, lentils, fruits, vegetables and wholegrains are all prebiotics. Probiotics on the other hand are the live bacteria, often taken in supplement form or in foods developed to contain specific strains of beneficial bacteria,’ says Jo. Consuming probiotics regularly can assist in maintaining a healthy and balanced gut or in restoring an imbalanced microbiome, known as dysbiosis.
● Note: If you are struggling to manage your gut health, it’s recommended you work with a specialist to explore what may be causing your symptoms.
Designed for menopausal women
Health & Her Menopause Biome (£29.99 for 60 capsules, healthandher.com).
Combining 50 billion live cultures with a huge range of botanicals, vitamins and minerals, these capsules aim to improve gut health while also regulating hormones. Designed to improve overall wellbeing in menopausal women, you can expect boosted energy and immunity, enhanced psychological function and improved skin, hair, nail and bone health.
Combines prebiotics and probiotics
DR.VEGAN Gut Works (£26.99 for 30 capsules, drvegan.com).
Combining six strains of live cultures – including acidophilus, bifidobacterium and streptococcus – with prebiotic inulin in one daily delayed-release capsule, this awardwinning, vegan-friendly formula aims to relieve IBS and bloating while supporting digestion, mental health and immune health. Plus, the packaging is plastic-free and compostable.
Ideal for sensitive guts
Holland & Barrett Expert Calm Gut (£24.99 for 30 capsules, hollandandbarrett.com) is formulated with 20 billion live bacteria which have been clinically studied and trialled on people with sensitive digestive systems. It also contains GutGard®, a natural liquo
