09/30/2026
Gut Supplements: Worth It, Overhyped, or Use With Caution?
Let’s talk gut supplements — because there are a LOT of them, and not knowing what you need can make things worse for some peeps.
What helps one person may be completely wrong for another.
Saccharomyces boulardii • Beneficial yeast with solid research behind it
• Specific strains matter — CNCM I-745 is one of the best studied
• May be useful for antibiotic-associated diarrhea and other GI concerns
Colostrum • Contains immunoglobulins and bioactive compounds
• May support the intestinal barrier
• Zinc carnosine can also be useful for gut-lining support
Prebiotics • Feed beneficial organisms already living in your gut
• One of the most overlooked microbiome tools
• Type and dose matter — too much of the wrong one can increase bloating and fermentation.
Lactoferrin • Supports immune defense and iron regulation
• Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
• Can be useful depending on the individual
Betaine HCl • Supports protein digestion and nutrient absorption when stomach acid is inadequate
• NOT appropriate for everyone, especially with certain GI conditions or medications
Digestive Enzymes • Can reduce digestive workload and symptoms while we address the WHY
• Helpful support — but not necessarily the fix
Bovine Immunoglobulins • Promising research for certain GI conditions
• Can be expensive
• Not something everyone with gut issues automatically needs
USE WITH CAUTION
TUDCA, Ox Bile & Bitters • Can be helpful for the right person
• Bile acids interact with the microbiome
• More bile support isn't automatically better
Broccoli Sprout/Sulforaphane Extracts • Concentrated extracts can influence the microbiome
• Not automatically “bad,” but not automatically appropriate either — especially with significant GI symptoms
Probiotics • I use them, but strategically
• Strain and dose matter
• Many are transient — they don't simply move in and become permanent residents
• Prebiotics and diet are equally important for the long game
NOT MY FIRST CHOICE
Greens Powders • Convenient, but don't replace a varied whole-food diet, and sourced ingredients really matter here.
• I'd rather see fruits, vegetables, herbs and fiber coming from actual food
Berberine
• Has powerful antimicrobial and metabolic effects
• Can interact with medications
• I prefer targeted, appropriate use rather than taking it indefinitely because it's being marketed as “nature's Ozempic”
Oil of Oregano
• Potent antimicrobial
• May have a place when used appropriately
• Constantly trying to “kill” gut organisms isn't my idea of rebuilding a healthy microbiome
Guys, randomly stacking supplements isn't a gut protocol.
Before throwing probiotics, prebiotics, antimicrobials, enzymes, acids and bile support at someone, I want to know what we're actually trying to correct. You should too!
Your gut isn't generic.
Your nutrition shouldn't be either.
Want help figuring out your next step? I offer a 30-minute initial intake consultation. Call to get on my schedule.
219-713-4789
Dr. Jodi 🫶
Naturopathic Wellness & Nutritional Health