Contents
Leaky gut supplements claim to help minimize gut inflammation inflammation and promote healthy gut bacteria. They may also aid in better digestion, less bloating, and improved nutrient absorption.
A leaky gut happens when your gut lining becomes weak or damaged. The condition may contribute to digestive discomfort and immune system issues. Taking Leaky gut supplements may help address these issues and potentially help in supporting gut regularity. However, there are also some limitations to using leaky gut supplements.
In this article, we examine the 8 best leaky gut supplements, looking at their ingredients, effectiveness, benefits, features, and possible drawbacks. It will also explain how these leaky gut supplements may help repair the gut lining.
8 Best Leaky Gut Supplements
-
Terra Origin Healthy Gut Powder
According to the official site, Terra Origin Healthy Gut Powder features ingredients like L-glutamine, zinc (as PepZinGI® zinc carnosine), deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) licorice root powder, and marshmallow root powder.
L-glutamine may help repair the gut lining and support overall digestion. Zinc carnosine could assist the stomach’s natural healing process and protect against irritation. DGL licorice root powder and marshmallow root powder might help calm and soothe your digestive tract.
Aloe vera leaf extract may help support digestion by promoting healthy gut bacteria. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) might help lower inflammation in the digestive tract, which could ease bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort.
The Terra Origin Healthy Gut Powder comes in flavors, including honey lemon, mint, green apple, berry, etc. It also claims to avoid the use of fillers or harmful preservatives. You may consume it by adding 1 level scoop to 6oz of water and drinking it 1–2 times daily.
However, you may experience potential side effects from the herbal ingredients present in the Terra Origin Healthy Gut Powder. These may include flatulence, dizziness, constipation, stomach cramps, nausea, and mild headaches.
Pros
- Contains L-glutamine to support gut lining structure.
- It could help strengthen the gut barrier and reduce bloating and inflammation.
- Offers multiple flavors like Mint, Berry, and Peach Banana, and more.
- Free from dairy, gluten, preservatives, soy, and sugar.
- It may help improve energy levels and immunity.
- Comes with a 30-day return policy on orders.
Cons
- Requires consistent daily use for optimal results.
- You may experience side effects like flatulence, constipation, or gas.
- The powdered formula may not mix well in cold liquids.
-
AM/MD Leaky Gut Revive
As per the official site, Leaky Gut Revive by AM/MD claims to soothe, repair, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Each scoop (about 5.95g) contains 3 grams of L-glutamine and provides 20 calories. It also features a 2.75-gram proprietary blend of ingredients like arch arabinogalactan bark powder, slippery elm bark powder, and aloe vera leaf powder.
Larch arabinogalactan could maintain a healthy gut microbiome balance, which may help minimize digestive issues like bloating and constipation. Slippery elm and aloe vera might help soothe the digestive tract and also preserve the integrity of the gut lining. L-glutamine could help support the gut barrier, which may improve digestion.
The makers state that AM/MD Leaky Gut Revive is AIP-friendly, keto-friendly, non-GMO, and third-party tested to ensure quality. It also does not contain allergens like gluten, dairy, corn, soy, GMOs, and yeast. These features could make it suitable for various dietary needs.
You might experience mild stomach discomfort when using Leaky Gut Revive. There is also a potential chance that you may find the taste of AM/MD Leaky Gut Revive as bland or unpleasant, which could make it difficult to use daily.
Pros
- Includes extracts like marshmallow root and slippery elm to support gut health.
- Deglycyrrhizinated licorice may help avoid blood pressure concerns.
- Its light flavor could mix easily with water, juice, or smoothies.
- GMP-compliant and third-party tested for quality and safety.
- It is compatible with both keto and Paleo diets.
- You may consume it with or without food.
Cons
- Premium pricing than similar leaky gut supplements.
- The flavor might be unappealing for some users.
- Variations in results and effectiveness.
-
Revive Glutamine
Revive Glutamine claims to support gut health by maintaining a healthy gut lining and lowering inflammation in the intestines. It could also support your digestive system, boost immunity, and aid faster recovery post-exercise.
According to the official site, each scoop (10g) of Revive Glutamine provides 10 grams of L-glutamine, with 30 servings per bottle. It is also gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and soy-free, which could make it compatible for people with various dietary restrictions.
L-glutamine in Revive Glutamine could fuel the intestinal and immune cells. It may help maintain a strong barrier between your intestines and the rest of your body. Such effects may support the growth and repair of gut cells, which could promote better digestion and gut health.
Although Revive Glutamine is typically well-tolerated, you might experience side effects as a result of your body’s reaction to its glutamine content. These might include symptoms such as bloating, nausea, dizziness, heartburn, constipation, and headache.
Pros
- Provides 10g of L-glutamine per scoop to support gut health.
- It strengthens the gut lining to reduce digestive discomfort and leaky gut risk.
- It may fuel immune cells to help fight off infections.
- Does not comprise soy, gluten, or any animal-derived products.
- It might help ease muscle soreness and speed up post-workout recovery.
Cons
- It may cause mild bloating or stomach discomfort in sensitive users.
- Lacks flavor options.
-
NWIH Leaky Gut Restore
Developed by Northwest Integrated Health (NWIH), Leaky Gut Restore claims to help strengthen the gut lining, support digestion, and encourage the growth of good gut bacteria. It provides 30 servings in a single jar (174g).
According to the official site, NWIH Leaky Gut Restore contains 2g of arabinogalactan, 500mg of deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract, 100mg of aloe vera extract, and 3g of glutamine in each scoop (5.8g).
Research suggests that arabinogalactan might help increase the production of short-chain fatty acids. SCFAs are important because they help feed the cells in your gut lining. A healthy gut lining may improve digestion and reduce abdominal discomfort.
Leaky Gut Restore utilizes licorice extract, with the glycyrrhizin compound removed to lower the risk of side effects. Deglycyrrhizinated licorice may soothe the stomach and support digestion. Aloe vera extract is also carefully processed to remove compounds that may cause a laxative effect.
While NWIH Leaky Gut Restore may offer benefits, there are some limitations to consider. The product’s safety standards and allergen details are not clearly provided, which could make it potentially unsafe if you have allergies or dietary sensitivities.
Pros
- It uses processed aloe vera extract to avoid laxative effects.
- Arabinogalactan may help strengthen the gut lining and reduce bloating.
- It uses natural sweeteners like stevia leaf extract.
- Uses deglycyrrhizinated licorice extract, which might reduce the risk of side effects.
- Provides 30 servings in each jar.
Cons
- No information on third-party testing for quality assurance.
- Unclear if it is suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
- Limited information on the manufacturing process and facility standards.
-
SANE MD Viscera-3
SANE MD Viscera-3 is a postbiotic that claims to deliver postbiotic molecules directly into your lower colon, which may help support gut healing and function. It also claims to minimize bloating, tackle IBS symptoms, and reduce the risk of a leaky gut.
As per the official site, each 3-capsule serving of SANE MD Viscera-3 provides 1000mg of CoreBiome® tributyrin, 600mg of the SlimGut Garden blend, which contains pomegranate fruit and grape seed extract. It also features 110mg of magnesium and 100 mcg of chromium.
CoreBiome® tributyrin could help improve digestion by strengthening the gut lining. It reaches the lower colon, where it may help reduce bloating, discomfort, and irregular bowel movements. It might also help improve nutrient absorption and support immune function over time.
The makers state that SANE MD Viscera-3 is made in a facility that adheres to NSF and GMP safety standards, ensuring high-quality production and cleanliness. However, it may cause potential side effects like constipation, stomach cramps, flatulence, heartburn, etc.
Pros
- Contains CoreBiome Tributyrin, a patented form of butyrate, which may support gut health.
- It may help reduce gas and bloating, promoting digestive comfort.
- Made in an NSF and GMP-certified facility, ensuring quality standards.
- It contains non-GMO and gluten-free ingredients.
- Helps deliver postbiotics directly to the lower colon for optimal effectiveness.
- User reviews highlight improvements in digestive regularity and reduced bloating.
Cons
- Limited clinical studies specifically on Viscera-3’s proprietary blend.
- Personal experiences and effectiveness might differ from person to person.
- It may have a higher price point than its competition.
-
Metagenics UltraFlora Balance Probiotic
According to the official site, each capsule of Metagenics UltraFlora Balance Probiotic offers a 55 mg blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, delivering 15 billion CFU of probiotics per serving.
Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 are well-researched probiotic strains. They could strengthen your gut lining and lower the risk of a leaky gut. These probiotics may also help break down food more efficiently, making digestion smoother.
As per the makers, Metagenics UltraFlora Balance Probiotic is non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegetarian. However, you might notice temporary bloating, gas, or stomach discomfort during initial use.
The Metagenics UltraFlora Balance Probiotic comes in different serving sizes, with bottles containing 30, 60, and 120 capsules. You may consume 1–2 capsules each day with water to help support your gut health.
Pros
- Contains clinically studied probiotic strains to support gut health and digestion.
- Supports both gastrointestinal and immune health.
- Comes in bottles with 30, 60, and 120 capsules.
- It provides 15 billion CFU of probiotics per capsule.
- It claims to release beneficial gut bacteria within 30 minutes of consumption.
- Offers a non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegetarian formula.
Cons
- It may not be suitable for users with probiotic sensitivities.
- Potential for mild digestive discomfort during initial use.
-
Emma Gut Health Supplement
Developed by Enclave BioActives, Emma Gut Health Supplement claims to support bowel regularity and reduce bloating. The formula could also help lower gut inflammation and support leaky gut repair. Consistent use of Emma might also help minimize some IBS symptoms.
As per the official site, every 2-capsule serving of Emma Gut Health Supplement provides 200 mg of berberine, 100 mg of star anise seed extract, 125 mg of quercetin, and 50 mg of chicory root inulin. It also comes in different serving sizes of 60, 120, and 240 capsules.
Berberine may help balance gut bacteria and reduce gut inflammation. Quercetin could strengthen the gut lining and protect it against oxidative stress. Chicory root inulin is a prebiotic that might encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
However, Emma Gut Health Supplement might not tackle some digestive concerns, especially if factors like food intolerances, chronic conditions, or stress-related gut imbalances cause the issues.
Pros
- It claims to support bowel regularity and provide bloating and gas relief.
- Formulated to support gut health and colon cleansing.
- Available in multiple serving sizes, with 60, 120, and 240 capsules per bottle.
- It might help alleviate heartburn and indigestion.
- It could help boost metabolism and support fat loss goals.
- It comes in an easy-to-swallow capsule form.
Cons
- It might negatively interact with diabetes and blood pressure medications.
- Lacks information about safety and allergen profile.
-
Liver Medic Leaky Gut Repair
As per the official site, Liver Medic Leaky Gut Repair features 25mg of zinc and a proprietary 981.26mg “Gut Repair Blend.” The blend includes bromelain, organic marshmallow root, MSM, organic slippery elm, and other gut-supporting ingredients.
Using Liver Medic Leaky Gut Repair could help rebuild and strengthen gut wall cells. Such effects may help minimize digestive issues, such as bloating, constipation, and heartburn. It may also stimulate mucilage production, which may coat and protect the stomach and gut lining from irritation and damage.
The makers state that Liver Medic Leaky Gut Repair uses grade-A ingredients without any additives or fillers. It is also NSF-certified and made in a GMP-compliant facility, which could imply that it meets strict safety and quality standards during production.
Pros
- Contains L-glutamine, which may support gut tissue repair.
- Available in both unflavored and mint chocolate options.
- It may shield the gut lining against inflammation and oxidative damage.
- Offers a vegan, dairy-free, and non-GMO profile.
- It is made in GMP-compliant facilities and is also NSF-certified.
- Provides 10 potent ingredients to support gut health.
Cons
- The large capsule size might be difficult to swallow for some users.
- The unflavored powder may have an unpleasant taste.
How Leaky Gut Supplements Repair Gut Lining?
Your gut lining is made of tiny cells that stick together tightly, called junction proteins, which help control what enters your bloodstream. When these connections weaken, harmful particles might pass through, leading to inflammation and digestive issues.
Leaky gut supplements may help repair your gut lining by providing nutrients like L-glutamine. It could help strengthen these connections and support the healing of your gut lining. Some supplements may also reduce inflammation and balance gut bacteria. They often include zinc, collagen, and probiotics.
Zinc and collagen might help soothe irritation and protect the mucus layer in your intestines, which acts as a natural barrier. Probiotics could add beneficial bacteria to your gut, improving digestion and restricting harmful microbes from damaging the gut wall.
Some leaky gut supplements also contain herbs like licorice root and marshmallow root. They could help coat the digestive tract, easing discomfort and irritation in your gut lining. They might also help support faster healing of damaged gut tissues.
Possible Drawbacks Of Leaky Gut Supplements
-
Changes In Bowel Movements
Leaky gut supplements may affect your bowel habits by promoting gut motility, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom. Ingredients like collagen or zinc in some leaky gut supplements may slow digestion and cause constipation.
You might also notice a change in stool consistency after using leaky gut supplements. There is also a potential chance that you might experience issues like loose stools. If bowel issues persist, lowering the dosage or switching leaky gut supplements may be necessary.
-
Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Some leaky gut supplements may affect your blood sugar levels. Ingredients like berberine or chromium might lower blood sugar levels, causing fatigue or shakiness. Leaky gut supplements with added sugars or starches could also spike blood sugar levels. It is advisable to take leaky gut supplements with food to help minimize sudden changes.
-
Allergic Reactions
Some leaky gut supplements contain ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions. Collagen, for example, often comes from bovine (cow) or marine (fish) sources. If you have a fish or beef allergy, it may cause itching, swelling, or a rash.
Probiotics in leaky gut supplements contain dairy-based strains like Lactobacillus casei. If you are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, you might experience allergic reactions like nausea or skin irritation.
-
Fatigue
Leaky gut supplements may cause feelings of tiredness or weakness in some people. Glutamine in some leaky gut supplements may alter how your body uses energy. While glutamine supports gut healing, you might feel sluggish when taking it. They might also trigger fatigue temporarily as your gut microbiome adjusts. If a supplement lowers blood sugar too much, you may feel drained or lightheaded. This may happen with berberine, cinnamon, or alpha-lipoic acid.
-
Digestive Discomfort
Leaky gut supplements may trigger bloating, gas, or stomach cramps. It may happen if the supplement contains prebiotics like inulin or fructooligosaccharides (FOS). These ingredients may feed good gut bacteria, but they may also produce excess gas.
Some leaky gut supplements also have digestive enzymes like bromelain or papain. These could help break down food but might speed up digestion too much. Such effects may trigger side effects like loose stools or mild diarrhea.
How To Choose Best Leaky Gut Supplement?
-
Look for Gut-Healing Ingredients
Before choosing a leaky gut supplement, it’s important to focus on ingredients that are known to help repair and strengthen the gut lining. You should look for supplements that contain L-glutamine, which could help reduce intestinal permeability and reduce the risk of a leaky gut.
Zinc carnosine is another ingredient to look for. It could help strengthen the gut barrier by protecting the mucosal lining of your stomach and intestines. You might also want to look for marshmallow root and slippery elm in the supplement.
Marshmallow root contains mucilage, a gel-like substance that may coat the gut and protect it from irritation. Slippery elm may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the digestive tract. Leaky Gut Supplements with collagen and bone broth peptides may also support gut repair.
-
Avoid Harmful Additives
When choosing a leaky gut supplement, it’s important to avoid harmful additives that may worsen your health. Many supplements contain artificial colors, preservatives, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). These additives may irritate your gut and make inflammation worse.
It’s also important to avoid leaky gut supplements that contain gluten and dairy-based ingredients, especially if you have a leaky gut. Gluten and dairy might worsen gut inflammation and disrupt healing.
You should look for supplements that are specifically labeled as gluten-free and dairy-free to avoid such risks. These types of supplements may be gentler on your digestive system and help you tackle symptoms more effectively.
-
Third-Party Testing and Quality
It is advisable to choose a leaky gut supplement that undergoes regular third-party testing checks. Third-party testing status could help verify that the supplement contains the ingredients it claims, such as probiotics or digestive enzymes, in the correct amounts.
It may also help crosscheck that the leaky gut supplement remains free from harmful contaminants like heavy metals, toxins, or pesticides that could affect your gut health. You should look for third-party testing certifications or labels on the packaging, such as GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or NSF certification.
These labels may indicate that the leaky gut supplement has passed thorough testing for safety and potency. With this added assurance, you can make a more informed decision when selecting a leaky gut supplement for your needs.
-
Prioritize Probiotics And Prebiotics
When opting for a leaky gut supplement, you may want to focus on probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains may have a positive impact on your gut. Lactobacillus may help digest lactose and reduce bloating, while Bifidobacterium might help lower gut inflammation and improve immune function.
Research suggests that the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotic strains may help reduce symptoms of leaky gut, such as bloating and discomfort.
Besides probiotics, you should also consider leaky gut supplements with prebiotics like inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS). Inulin may help encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. FOS prebiotics might strengthen the gut barrier by supporting bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids.
-
Focus On Immune-Targeted Benefits
An overactive immune response may often cause a leaky gut, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the gut lining. Therefore, when choosing a leaky gut supplement, it’s important to focus on how it may support your immune system.
You should look for leaky gut supplements that include ingredients like immunoglobulins (IgG) or colostrum. Immunoglobulins (particularly IgG) are proteins that may bind to harmful pathogens and gut toxins, restricting them from entering the bloodstream and stimulating an immune reaction.
Colostrum may provide antibodies and growth factors that could help heal and repair the gut lining. Leaky gut supplements with these ingredients may support your body’s ability to protect and restore the gut, helping minimize the risk of a leaky gut.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What Causes Leaky Gut Syndrome?
Multiple factors like poor diet, chronic stress, excessive alcohol consumption, or an imbalance in gut bacteria may cause Leaky gut syndrome. These factors may damage the intestinal lining and contribute to the leaky gut syndrome. - Are Leaky Gut Supplements Effective Against Bloating?
Leaky gut supplements might help reduce bloating by supporting gut healing and balancing the gut microbiome. When the gut lining is repaired, and inflammation is reduced, bloating caused by digestive imbalances may improve. - Can Leaky Gut Supplements Help With Mood Swings Or Anxiety?
Leaky gut supplements may improve mood by supporting the gut-brain connection. A healthy gut might help reduce inflammation and promote the synthesis of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which may support mental health and stabilize mood. - Should I Use Leaky Gut Supplements Alongside Other Digestive Aids?
You may pair leaky gut supplements with other digestive aids, such as digestive enzymes or antacids. However, it’s important to consult with a doctor to ensure there are no harmful interactions between them.
Conclusion
Taking leaky gut supplements alongside a fiber-rich diet might help minimize some symptoms of a leaky gut, such as indigestion, bloating, diarrhea, or heartburn. Limiting alcohol consumption and refraining from greasy and fried foods may further support a healthy gut microbiome.
When selecting a leaky gut supplement, you should consider factors like its composition, targeted benefits, dosage per serving, inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics, and pricing. These factors may help you choose a suitable supplement for your needs.
Besides using leaky gut supplements, adopting a gut-friendly lifestyle is essential to support gut healing. It may include getting at least 7-8 hours of daily sleep, eating anti-inflammatory foods, and avoiding gut irritants like processed foods, gluten, and dairy.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.
Leave a Reply