Integrative Digestion

by Eric Munson | May 1, 2026

Natural remedies and solutions to support a healthy gut.

The health of the gut plays a major role in the health of the whole body and how it functions, according to Vicki Koenig, MS, RD, CDN, a master’s level registered dietitian based in New Paltz, NY, “In between, lives trillions of bacteria (good and bad), mostly in the large intestine. Our gut health refers to our gastrointestinal anatomy, diet, health status, genetics and the content of microorganisms or microbiota. This also can be called the microbiome,” she explained.

Koenig added the microbiome influences the function of numerous systems in the body, working like a regulator of metabolism, nutrition, physiology, immunity and mental health.

She elaborated on each of these points:

Metabolism: What we eat can “feed” the gut microbiota to make what are known as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). These enhance blood sugar processing with increased insulin sensitivity. SCFAs also stimulate our own body’s production of GLP-1 hormone. A focused approach to eating and selective probiotics can be supportive of weight management and metabolic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Nutrition: The gut microbiome helps improve the absorption of vitamins: B12, folate and vitamin K. It also enhances absorption of calcium, magnesium and iron. Gut microbiota help ferment fiber in the gut into SCFAs. These nourish the large intestine cells and help regulate appetite, (with our natural GLP-1 hormone). Without a healthy gut, there can be nutrient deficiencies.

Physiology: Gut health significantly influences how our body functions through production of GLP-1 plus other hormones that like leptin and ghrelin, which affect how hungry we feel. Because the gut microbiome nourishes the colon, it maintains the gut barrier integrity. This means that bad stuff, like harmful bacteria, doesn’t get across into the bloodstream. With decreased gut barrier integrity or “leaky gut,” there is potential for inflammation. This can mean increased incidence of autoimmune conditions, inflammatory bowel disease, and metabolic syndrome like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. New research supports how the quality of your gut affects other medical conditions. Your gut lining is supposed to act like a filter. When it becomes ‘leaky,’ things that shouldn’t get into your bloodstream can slip through, triggering inflammation and affecting many systems in the body.

Immune Function: Did you know that about 70 percent of our immune system lives in our gut? The content of the diet significantly influences the microbiota (both good and bad) content in the gut. This balance determines inflammation vs. tolerance. Research shows a high fiber diet enhances the growth of beneficial bacteria (probiotics), which produce SCFAs. These have been shown to activate immune cells, which help improve immune tolerance. Conversely, a diet high in sugar and fat can disrupt the gut microbiota, leading to the growth of pathogens, which may result in inflammation and an increased risk of autoimmune diseases.

Mental Health: The brain and the gut communicate. Gut health can affect mood. The gut microbiota produces neuroactive compounds like dopamine, norepinephrine, GABA and helps to produce serotonin. The balance of these all impact mental health. Research shows when the gut is off, there is decreased ability of the brain to respond. This can increase depression, stress and mood disorders. Having symptoms of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) can increase anxiety. Altering microbiota is also becoming a new area of research to treat serious neurodegenerative disorders. These include Parkinsonism, ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and Alzheimer’s disease. From altered digestive function affecting one’s mood to adjusting the gut microbiome to treat these serious disorders, this area of gut health is fermenting in a concentrated way.

The Importance of Gut Health

Christophe Merville, DPharm, director of education & pharmacy development at Boiron USA (Newtown Square, PA) noted that gut health plays a central role in systemic health, functioning as a key regulatory interface between the external environment and multiple internal systems.

“Gut health also influences how efficiently nutrients are absorbed and used, which can have downstream effects on energy levels and metabolic function. At the same time, the gut lining acts as an important barrier,” Dr. Merville said. “When it is compromised, substances that are normally contained within the digestive tract may enter the bloodstream and trigger immune responses. A dysfunctional microbiome may lead to a less efficient gut lining, which will affect the absorption of nutrients.”

According to Dr. Stacey Smith, senior medical affairs liaison at Gnosis by Lesaffre (France/Milwaukee, WI), gut health is foundational to systemic physiology due to its central role in nutrient absorption, immune modulation and neuroendocrine signaling. The gastrointestinal tract is not an isolated system—it is a highly integrated hub that communicates bidirectionally with the brain, immune system and metabolic pathways.

In a new study published in Gastroenterology, researchers assessing data from more than 52,000 children found that early life stress impairs the gut-brain axis, leading to long-term gut disorders such as IBS.1

This is just one of several recent examples demonstrating the powerful link between gut function and mental health, underscoring the vital need to address balancing gut microbiota and improving physical resilience to mental stress and mood balance, Dr. Smith explained.

“More consumers understand the idea of the ‘gut-brain/skin-axis’—representing the complex bidirectional communication network between the gut and other systems in the body,” Dr. Smith said. “Clinically, this reinforces that gut dysfunction is not merely digestive, it is systemic, influencing conditions ranging from metabolic syndrome to anxiety and skin disorders. Therefore, a well-balanced gut microbiome is essential for overall health, while imbalances (dysbiosis) are not only linked to conditions like inflammation and mood disorders, but they also directly affect digestive processes.”

“Alternatively, a dysbiotic environment is associated with obesity, NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease), and type 2 diabetes via altered energy harvest and low-grade inflammation. Functionally targeted probiotic formulations, fermented foods and a diverse, whole food diet can help correct and sustain gut microbial balance,” added Pam Conboy, practitioner support & education at New York-based Omni-Biotic.

What Consumers and Patients Want

Dr. Serena Goldstein, a naturopathic doctor based in Delray Beach, FL, said she often sees patients wanting to get rid of constant bloating, reacting to certain foods, constipation, address weight loss and overall answers.

“They may come in talking about the microbiome, yet as we go through their history we may find it really could be a primary concern, or there’s another affected organ system (I commonly see hormones) needing priority where perhaps cleaning up their diet and becoming present with their food becomes our first plan of action,” Dr. Goldstein said.

Conboy said generic probiotic support is no longer acceptable. Consumers are looking for proven strain and formulation performance. They are also seeking personalized probiotic solutions targeted to specific health needs—with evidence. Some of the big areas of interest include weight and metabolism, immune resilience, mood and cognition, and digestive function.

Dr. Merville said patients are increasingly focusing on managing occasional digestive discomfort in ways that easily integrate into daily routines. Many patients want to address symptoms such as heartburn, bloating or upset stomach in a way that feels manageable and practical. They also value flexibility and format.

“Patients are also mindful of how a product fits alongside what they are already taking,” Dr. Merville said. “Compatibility with other medications, supplements or dietary preferences are important factors. Clear labeling and ingredient transparency continue to be important, as patients want to feel confident in what they are using. Overall, there is a growing preference for digestive solutions that are straightforward, adaptable and easy to incorporate into everyday life.”

According to Slawek Gromadzki, nutritionist at California-based HealthAid America, consumers are increasingly looking for targeted, high-potency probiotic formulas that are tailored to specific wellness goals such as digestive balance and immune support. There is a growing demand for clinically studied strains, shelf-stable formulations and products that include complementary ingredients like prebiotics.

Dr. Smith said from both clinical observation and market data, patients are increasingly seeking multi-functional, evidence-based solutions that go beyond basic digestive relief.

A recent report from Lumina Intelligence presented at Probiota Europe 2025 showed the top reason why consumers take biotics is to improve their gut microbiomes. This is followed by immune boosting, general well-being and digestive support. There is also a growing interest to the impact that antibiotic therapies have on digestion and the gut.

She added there are two rapidly expanding categories of gut-axis support, which are driving both product development and consumer demand:

• Gut-brain axis: psychobiotics for mental well-being are being developed to support mood, stress management and cognitive function—either separately or as combination products

• Gut-skin axis: influencing beauty-from-within product development with probiotic skincare and supplements aiming to improve conditions like acne and eczema

“Other key patient-driven priorities include clinically validated strains due to growing scrutiny around strain specificity, clinical data and transparency. Also, patients expect tangible symptom improvements in areas such as bloating, abdominal discomfort and regularity within weeks,” Dr. Smith said.

A Variety of Supplements

There are a variety of supplements and natural products that practitioners can recommend to their patients.

Boiron’s AcidCalm Meltaway Tablets are indicated for occasional heartburn, acid indigestion, bloating and upset stomach.

“These symptoms occur when the stomach secretes too much acid, when the lower esophageal sphincter is leaking acidic food from the stomach to the esophagus, causing heartburn, or when slow digestion cases fermentation of stomach content, which triggers distention, excessive production of gas and bloating,” Dr. Merville explained.

He added that AcidCalm may be considered for patients experiencing occasional digestive discomfort who are looking for a homeopathic option that can be integrated alongside other therapies. It is made with plant-based active ingredients, which may appeal to patients who prefer that category of product.

“The homeopathic ingredients in AcidCalm do not interfere with other medications. AcidCalm is an excellent option to relieve occasional stomach discomfort: it can be taken before meals, without water, or even during or after meals,” Dr. Merville said. “It doesn’t have the side effects associated with other treatments, such as interference with other medicine’s absorption, constipation or diarrhea, and masking symptoms of a more serious condition.”

Omni-Biotic’s formulations are all functionally targeted and clinically studied (RCTs on the final formulation).2 Some of its products include Stress Release (a psychobiotic for mood and mind); Hetox (metabolism and detoxification); AB 10 (gut restoration and pathogen eradication); and Balance (immune support).

HealthAid offers a comprehensive range of targeted probiotic formulations designed to support digestive health and microbiome balance. For example, ImmuProbio 50 Billion features the well-studied DDS-1 strain and is designed to support both digestive and immune function as part of a daily wellness routine.

“These products are room temperature stable and formulated with strains that are acid and bile resistant to help ensure viability through the digestive system. Many of our formulations include well-studied probiotic strains along with a prebiotic to help support the growth of beneficial bacteria,” Gromadzki said.

Gnosis provides strain-specific, clinically validated probiotic yeasts that support both the microbiome and the often-overlooked mycobiome (fungal ecosystem).

Lynside Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii is a proprietary strain (CNSM I-3799) and is the most documented probiotic yeast with more than 70 years of clinical research that supports the gut barrier defense system. This strain has been clinically proven to reduce diarrhea in adults and children and to help restore a balanced microbiome through nourishing the mycobiome.3

ibSium is a reference probiotic yeast patented and registered under S. cerevisiae CNCM I-3856. It has been showed to relieve occasional abdominal pain and improve the quality of life of people suffering from digestive discomfort.

“What is critical to emphasize is that strain specificity matters; while both ibSium and Lynside are both strains of S. cerevisiae, they are unique and deliver specific, targeted benefits,” Dr. Smith explained.

Natural Remedies and Lifestyle

Dr. Goldstein said she likes recommending a bitters tincture before each meal to “wake up the body,” apple cider vinegar (a small amount in a water bottle daily), a form of magnesium if there’s constipation, sometimes enzymes, 3-4 g of vitamin C (to help with stress, tissue integrity and support good bacteria, and benefit multiple organ systems), and a probiotic specific for concerns.

“Then, we always support with remedies as part of their foundation and then condition specific. Flower essences are a great addition when there’s a strong mental/emotional picture, helping to calm the nervous system,” Dr. Goldstein said.

Koenig recommended increasing vegetables, fruits and other sources of fiber—these can work as prebiotics—which increase the good gut microbes. Adding fermented foods with kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut and yogurt will also add to the microbiota.

Dr. Merville agreed with Koenig’s recommendations, adding foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (including fatty fish) can also support gut and immune health.

“It is equally important to limit highly processed foods and excess sugar, as these can negatively impact gut bacteria. Staying well hydrated, managing stress, getting adequate sleep, and maintaining regular physical activity all contribute to better gut health,” Dr. Merville said.

According to Dr. Smith, digestive health requires a multi-layered approach combining microbiome support, nutrition and lifestyle interventions.

“Prioritize fiber and polyphenol intake to support microblogs modulation and microbiome diversity with diet. Address nutrient gaps (i.e. magnesium, B vitamins) that influence motility and gut function,” Dr. Smith explained. “Use clinically validated, strain-specific probiotics combined with prebiotics substrates to sustain microbial activity. Manage stress with mindfulness, breathwork and sleep optimization because it directly alters gut motility and permeability through the gut-brain axis. And beyond this, consider probiotic yeasts during antibiotic use or digestive disruption, and use condition-specific strains for IBS, diarrhea or bloating.”

Koenig said new research is showing effective treatments of probiotics, prebiotics and healthy diet can improve digestion, metabolic diseases and mental health.

“Taking a broad-spectrum probiotic is fine, but if there is a health condition, there may be a better approach. Targeting probiotics for specific health conditions is helpful. Most don’t know this including many health care professionals,” she noted. “It’s important to find someone that knows how to work with probiotics and counsel on a healthy diet to sustain changes. It doesn’t happen overnight, but the results can be dramatic.”

“Even occasional digestive symptoms can provide insight into how patients are responding to diet, stress and lifestyle factors,” Dr. Merville concluded. “In practice, having a range of approaches, including dietary, lifestyle and product-based options, allows for more individualized support in managing these concerns. The goal is to support digestive comfort in a way that is practical and sustainable for each patient.”

References:

1 Naijar et al. “Enteric and Sympathetic Nervous System Pathways Mediate Early Life Stress Effects on Gut Motility and Pain: Mechanistic Findings with Human Correlation.” Gastroenterology 2026 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2026.02.030.

2 https://omnibioticlife.com/pages/research.

3 Moré, Margret I., and Alexander Swidsinski. “Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 Supports Regeneration of the Intestinal Microbiota after Diarrheic Dysbiosis–A Review.” Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology, 2015, pp. 237-255.

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Using Red Light Therapy to Support Digestion

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, is the use of specific wavelengths (colors) of light to create positive changes in the body.

“Within your cells, this light interacts with the mitochondria, which are the ‘energy producers’ of the cell. This helps increase energy production, reduce inflammation and support nitric oxide production, which improves blood flow and communication between cells,” said Jesse Schwartz, vice president of Hue Light USA (Rock Hill, NY).

Schwartz explained that when the correct wavelengths of light are applied to the abdominal area, they can help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

“Less inflammation allows the gut lining to function properly. This supports better digestion, improved nutrient absorption, and overall gut health,” Schwartz explained. “Research also suggests that red light therapy may positively influence the microbiome. Specifically, it may help increase beneficial, or ‘good,’ bacteria that play a key role in digestion and immune function.”

According to Schwartz, red light therapy is natural for the body and works by mimicking beneficial parts of sunlight without harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is “dosed” differently than traditional treatments like vitamins and medications.

“Instead of milligrams or grams, the ‘dose’ is based on light energy, which depends on the power of the device and the time of exposure. In simple terms, higher power and proper timing allow the light to deliver enough energy to reach deeper tissues and create a meaningful biological effect,” Schwartz explained.

Schwartz added one of the most important aspects of red light therapy is power, or how much energy the device delivers, and precision, or how accurately the light is delivered to the large tissue. Not all devices are the same—many are designed for surface-level effects like skin health while deeper biological effects require higher-powered properly calibrated systems.

“Ongoing research, including work being conducted at Hue Light, is focused on identifying the optimal settings for different conditions. As the science continues to grow, red light therapy is becoming a powerful tool for both medical and wellness applications,” Schwartz said.

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Healthy Take Aways

• The microbiome influences the function of numerous systems in the body such as metabolism, nutrition, physiology, immunity and mental health.
• A focused approach to eating and selective probiotics can support weight management and metabolic conditions.
• About 70 percent of the immune system lives in the gut.
• Altering microbiota is becoming a new area of research to treat serious neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s, ALS and Alzheimer’s.
• In a new study, data from more than 52,000 children found early stress impairs the gut-brain axis.
• A report from Lumina Intelligence showed the main reason consumers take biotics is to improve their gut microbiomes, followed by immune boosting, general well-being and digestive support.