While many focus on daily food intake, beverages often get overlooked. However, according to California-based gastroenterologist Saurabh Sethi, drinks can profoundly affect gut health, sometimes even more significantly than food. Here are 5 beverages Dr. Sethi recommends for supporting gut health:

Black coffee

Black coffee can stimulate bowel movements and foster the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Healthline reports that moderate coffee intake is also associated with a lower risk of certain liver conditions. For those who experience heartburn or have irritable bowel syndrome, Dr. Sethi recommends cold brew coffee, as it is less acidic than hot-brewed varieties.

Green tea

Green tea is rich in EGCG, an antioxidant compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Health reports that EGCG helps protect the intestinal lining, thereby reducing inflammatory responses throughout the body. Dr. Sethi advises consuming about two cups of green tea daily to maximize its gut health benefits, a quantity frequently used in relevant health studies.

Ginger tea

Ginger tea is a traditional remedy for bloating, nausea, and indigestion. The Times of India notes that gingerol and shogaol, active compounds in ginger, can promote gastric emptying and enhance digestion. For those experiencing frequent bloating, a cup of ginger tea, brewed by steeping fresh ginger for about 10 minutes after a meal, can be beneficial.

Turmeric milk

Turmeric milk, containing curcumin, is another beneficial beverage. Curcumin possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that, according to Verywell Health, support both gut and liver health by mitigating inflammation. However, curcumin's bioavailability is low when consumed in isolation. Dr. Sethi recommends adding black pepper to turmeric milk, as the piperine in pepper significantly enhances curcumin absorption.

Plain water

Despite the array of specialized drinks, Dr. Sethi emphasizes that plain water remains the ultimate beverage for digestive health. Chronic dehydration can elevate the risk of constipation and bloating. He suggests drinking a glass of water approximately 30 minutes before a meal to stimulate digestive enzymes. However, he cautions against excessive water intake during meals, as this can potentially hinder digestion for some.

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