In This ArticleView AllIn This Article6 Best Spices to Fight Gut InflammationOther Ways to Fight Gut InflammationThe Bottom Line
In This ArticleView All
View All
In This Article
6 Best Spices to Fight Gut Inflammation
Other Ways to Fight Gut Inflammation
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking toimprove your gut healthand reduce inflammation, you’re on the right track. Gut health is crucial to your overall well-being, and inflammation can cause a range of health issues. “A healthy gut is essential for proper digestion, absorption of nutrients, immune function and overall wellness,” explainsSarah Robbins, M.D., a gastroenterologist and physician nutrition specialist in Kelowna, British Columbia. She adds that a healthy gut plays a role in neurotransmitters important for mental health and metabolic conditions such as obesity and diabetes.
5 Things You Should Do Every Day for Your Gut Health, According to a Gastroenterologist
Fortunately, certain spices can help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy gut. We spoke with gastroenterologists who shared some of thebest spicesto add to your meals to combat gut inflammation.
Ryan Liebe (photo); Judy Kim (food styling); Paige Hicks (prop styling)
1. Turmeric
2. Ginger
3. Cinnamon
4. Peppermint
5. Licorice Root
Licorice rootis a sweet and earthy herb often used in traditional medicine, per theNational Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. It contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, notes 2022 research in theJournal of Functional Foods.
“Licorice root has traditionally been used to soothe the gut and has been used to relieve acid reflux and indigestion,” says Robbins. “The glycyrrhizin in licorice root is known to be an anti-inflammatory. It may also have antiviral and antimicrobial properties. An additional benefit is that it has been known to promote skin health,” she adds.
6. Oregano
Oregano is a fragrant herb that’s commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. It contains two compounds—carvacrol and thymol—which may help cool off inflammation. In animal research, animals that were fed oregano essential oil had improved markers of gut barrier function, says Chavez.
To complement the benefits of adding the above spices to your diet, several other lifestyle habits can help promote gut health and reduce inflammation.
Certain spices can help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy gut. Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, peppermint, licorice root and oregano are six spices with potent anti-inflammatory effects that support optimal gut health. Additionally, eating a wide range of nutritious foods, limiting added sugars, managing stress and prioritizing sleep can help fight against gut inflammation.
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