Helpers I Trust

The digestive system is one of the most precious parts of how our body functions. It’s where nourishment is received, waste is cleared, and so much of our healing begins. When our digestion is struggling, it can affect energy, skin, immunity, and even our mood. It has been said that our gut is like our second brain. Lots can go wrong for us in the whole of our body if our digestion is not working right.

Through prayer, study, and personal experience, I’ve come to rely on a few key supplements that support my digestive and liver health. These are gentle helpers — not quick fixes — and I take them with gratitude and intention.

Betaine Hydrochloride (HCl)

This supplement supports healthy stomach acid production. Many people today suffer from too little stomach acid rather than too much. Without enough, our body struggles to digest protein and absorb minerals like zinc, magnesium, and B12.

I take Betaine HCl when I eat heavier protein meals. It helps reduce bloating and that heavy feeling after eating.

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are the body’s natural helpers for breaking down food into usable nutrients. When digestion is weak, undigested food can cause gas, bloating, and fatigue.

I use a broad-spectrum enzyme with meals, especially when eating cooked or complex meals. It helps everything go down more smoothly and leaves me feeling nourished instead of sluggish. I also follow most meals with fennel and ginger tea. Which is very helpful for digestion too!

Bile Force

Bile is a fluid made by the liver and stored in the gallbladder to help digest fats. Bile Force supports healthy bile flow, which is especially important if you’ve had your gallbladder removed or feel discomfort after fatty meals. Or meals like potlucks and buffets. There tends to be quite the variety of foods in those type meals. So it is a major go to!

This supplement has helped me better tolerate healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil, which are essential for hormone and brain health.

L-Glutamine

L-Glutamine is an amino acid that fuels the cells lining the gut. It’s especially helpful for healing a “leaky gut,” calming gut irritation, and restoring a healthy intestinal barrier.

I’ve used this one during seasons of deeper gut repair, and I’ve noticed it helps reduce digestive flare-ups.

Pau D’Arco

This is a traditional herb known for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties. It may help support a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in the gut.

I have been taking this one because I am sure that I have imbalances like candida overgrowth. Its also a good support for when I’ve had to take antibiotics. Which has been many years, thank you Lord.

How These Work Together

These supplements don’t replace whole, nourishing food — they simply help the body do its job better:

• Betaine HCl and digestive enzymes make digestion more complete and efficient.
• Bile Force ensures fats are absorbed instead of causing discomfort.
• L-Glutamine and Pau D’Arco support the gut lining and healthy flora.

A Closing Word

Digestion is more than just processing food — it’s about receiving life from what God provides. I believe He desires that our bodies be well cared for, and that includes tending to the systems that bring nourishment into our lives.

As Psalm 103:2-3 says:
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases.”

These helpers have made a big difference for me. I pray they may be a blessing to you as well.

Next in the series: “Balancing Blood Sugar Naturally.”