John Fenster
Bitter herbs and compounds lean on the gag reflex but optimize digestion powerfully.
Bitters like gentian root stimulate secretion of digestive enzymes, bile and stomach acid essential to extraction of nutrients from foods and proper waste elimination.
Ginger Soothing ginger contains a bevy of phenolic antioxidant compounds shown in research to protect guts from damaging pathogens and parasites.
Ginger also minimizes nausea and painful menstrual cramps by inhibiting prostaglandins and relaxing smooth intestinal muscle.
Peppermint and its active agent L-menthol contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects alongside phytochemicals that relax intestinal and gastrointestinal smooth muscles.
Peppermint also improves flow of bile for healthier fat digestion and calms IBS discomforts, research finds.
Fennel Providing anise-flavored phytoestrogens and antioxidants, crushed fennel seeds can relax tracts of the intestinal system to minimize common gas.
The prebiotic fiber increases beneficial bacteria counts and natural plant compounds reduce swelling for improved digestion.
Dark Leafy Greens Fiber-rich dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, Swiss chard, beet greens, collard greens.