Here are 8 best drinks for improving gut health and digestive health in order to maintan your overall well being. What you drink can have a big impact on your digestive system, from probiotic-packed drinks to soothing teas, these beverages are not only easy to incorporate into your daily routine but also offer significant health benefits.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the best drinks for gut health and break down the nutritional value of their key ingredients.
1. Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea that has become popular for its probiotic benefits. Made from tea, sugar, and a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), this fizzy drink helps balance gut bacteria, supports digestion, and boosts immunity.
Nutritional Value:
- Probiotics: Helps maintain healthy gut flora.
- B Vitamins: Supports metabolism and energy levels.
- Antioxidants: Protects the body from oxidative stress.
A typical serving of kombucha (8 oz) provides around:
- Calories: 30-40
- Carbohydrates: 7-8 grams
- Sugar: 2-6 grams
2. Kefir
Kefir is a fermented milk drink loaded with probiotics, making it one of the best choices for improving gut health. It’s similar to yogurt but has a thinner consistency and contains a greater variety of beneficial bacteria.
Nutritional Value:
- Probiotics: Strengthens the gut microbiome and enhances digestion.
- Protein: Builds and repairs tissues.
- Calcium: Supports bone health.
A typical serving of kefir (1 cup) provides:
- Calories: 100-150
- Protein: 8-11 grams
- Calcium: 30% of the recommended daily intake (RDI)
- Probiotics: 10-15 billion CFU (colony-forming units)
3. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a powerful anti-inflammatory drink that can soothe the digestive system and improve gut health. Its active ingredient, gingerol, helps reduce inflammation in the gut and aids in digestion.
Nutritional Value:
- Gingerol: Reduces inflammation and supports digestive health.
- Vitamin C: Boosts immunity.
- Antioxidants: Protect the body from free radicals.
A typical cup of ginger tea contains:
- Calories: 2
- Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram
- Vitamin C: Trace amounts depending on preparation
4. Bone Broth
Bone broth is rich in collagen, amino acids like glutamine, and essential minerals, making it excellent for supporting the gut lining and promoting overall digestive health. It helps in healing leaky gut syndrome and boosting the immune system.
Nutritional Value:
- Collagen: Supports gut lining and skin health.
- Glutamine: Heals and maintains the intestinal wall.
- Electrolytes: Essential for hydration and muscle function.
A typical serving of bone broth (1 cup) provides:
- Calories: 30-50
- Protein: 6-10 grams
- Collagen: 2-3 grams
- Glutamine: 500 mg+
5. Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
Diluted apple cider vinegar is an effective digestive aid that promotes the growth of healthy gut bacteria. It’s commonly consumed by mixing one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water.
Nutritional Value:
- Acetic Acid: Improves digestion and controls blood sugar levels.
- Probiotics: Helps balance gut flora.
- Potassium: Regulates fluid balance and supports muscle function.
A typical serving (1 tablespoon) contains:
- Calories: 3
- Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram
- Potassium: 11 mg
- Acetic Acid: Around 5%
6. Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera juice is a soothing drink that promotes gut health by supporting the digestive system. It can help reduce inflammation in the gut and encourage the growth of good bacteria.
Nutritional Value:
- Vitamins A, C, and E: Boost immune function and protect cells from damage.
- Amino Acids: Support digestion and gut health.
- Electrolytes: Hydrate the body and aid in digestion.
A typical serving (8 oz) of aloe vera juice contains:
- Calories: 15-20
- Vitamin C: 10% of RDI
- Amino Acids: Trace amounts depending on preparation
7. Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is well-known for its soothing effect on the digestive system. It helps relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion, making it a fantastic choice for gut health.
Nutritional Value:
- Menthol: Relieves digestive discomfort and bloating.
- Antioxidants: Reduce inflammation and protect the body from damage.
A typical cup of peppermint tea contains:
- Calories: 2
- Carbohydrates: Less than 1 gram
- Vitamin A: Trace amounts
8. Water with Lemon
Water with lemon is a simple yet effective drink for improving digestion and promoting a healthy gut. The acidity of lemon stimulates digestive enzymes and bile production, which can help in breaking down food.
Nutritional Value:
- Vitamin C: Boosts immune function and aids digestion.
- Flavonoids: Reduce inflammation and protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Citric Acid: Stimulates digestion and supports liver function.
A typical serving (1 glass with 1 lemon) contains:
- Calories: 10
- Vitamin C: 30-50% of RDI
- Flavonoids: Trace amounts depending on lemon size
Conclusion
Incorporating these gut-friendly drinks into your daily routine can do wonders for both your digestive system and overall health. From probiotic-rich kombucha to the soothing properties of peppermint tea, each of these drinks supports a healthy gut and helps manage blood sugar levels. By making small, consistent changes to your diet, you can achieve better gut health and improved wellness.