The American gastroenterologist has detailed the 5 spices to add to your dishes to facilitate digestion and fight inflammation of the intestine.
- Dr. Kenneth Brown, gastroenterologist, has detailed 5 spices that help restore transit and fight inflammation in the intestines.
- Turmeric and fennel help fight the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, among other things.
- Cinnamon has many digestive benefits. However, do not abuse desserts based on the spice because the sugar present is harmful to the intestines.
Constipation, flatulence, diarrhea, stomach aches…. The digestive system is a well-oiled machine that can easily jam. Simple gestures can help him to function well again: stay well hydrated, have a diet rich in fibre, exercise, fight against stress… but also put spices on his plate.
Asked by the American site Well & Goodgastroenterologist Dr Kenneth Brown has listed the 5 spices that help restore good transit and fight inflammation of the intestines.
Turmeric: the spice fights irritable bowel syndrome
Turmeric has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. This plant has, in fact, interesting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties for the body, and more particularly the digestive system.
“Some research suggests it may have benefits for gut health, including reducing inflammation and improving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)”, says Dr. Brown. A 2022 study showed that turmeric reduced the severity of IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, whether the spice was taken alone or in combination with IBS medications.
Ginger: it reduces digestive discomfort
If you have difficulty digesting or if you regularly suffer from intestinal disorders, you can also turn to ginger. “This spice is known for its digestive properties and can help reduce bloating and other digestive discomforts”says Dr. Brown. “It’s also a natural anti-inflammatory agent.”
According to works presented in 2019ginger can help reduce cramps, prevent flatulence and relieve nausea.
Faced with these many beneficial effects on digestion, do not hesitate to integrate it into your dishes or finish your meals with a ginger tea.
Coriander: the plant boosts transit
Cilantro is far from unanimous at the table. Nevertheless, “this spice is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties”, notes the doctor. The plant has many digestive benefits, “including reducing bloating and improving bowel movements”he says.
A study published in 2022 revealed that coriander works on stomach disorders “by stimulating the liver to increase the secretion of bile and other digestive enzymes”. The latter intensify the action of the digestive system, thus shortening the passage time of food through the digestive tract.
Fennel: it improves digestive function
“Fennel has a licorice flavor and is often used to aid digestion. It may help reduce bloating and improve overall digestive function”says Dr. Brown.
The plant would also help fight against irritable bowel syndrome. A 2016 randomized controlled trial found that when combined with turmeric, it significantly improved symptoms and quality of life for participants with mild to moderate IBS.
Cinnamon: the spice reduces bloating
Cinnamon also harbors many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The spice can “have benefits for gut health, and some research suggests it may help reduce bloating and improve digestion”recognizes Dr. Kenneth Brown.
However, do not throw yourself on all your favorite cinnamon-based desserts. The sugar present in these sweets is likely to put the intestines in difficulty. To reap the benefits of the spice, the expert advises instead to add a pinch or two of cinnamon powder to oatmeal or apple slices. It is also possible to benefit from its virtues by infusing a cinnamon stick in hot water for a few minutes.
