The Benefit of Digestive Bitters

Digestive issues plague millions of Americans each year, ranging from nausea, belching, burping, bloating, gas, constipation to diarrhea. The use of digestive bitters has been found to strengthen and improve the GI tract. Digestive bitters are blends of herbs, botanicals, fruits, flowers and spices concentrated with alcohol or apple cider vinegar to give them a bitter taste. They promote the secretion of saliva, gastric acid, pancreatic enzymes and bile, which improves the digestive process through vagus nerve stimulation.  

Specifically, the benefits of using digestive bitters include improved nutrient absorption, decreased gas/bloating, improved constipation, less cramping, improved reflux, decreased nausea and indigestion,  lower blood sugar, improved flora, and improved liver function. Some research shows it may also help decrease appetite and boost immunity. 

 Some herbs may interact with medications or be unsafe for certain health conditions, so don’t blindly take them without looking at the specific ingredients. Children and pregnant women should avoid bitters, especially if made with alcohol.