Gut Health: Struggling with digestive issues? Harvard doctor shares 6 drinks that can naturally heal the gut |

Suffering from digestive issues like bloating or constipation? Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist, recommends incorporating specific beverages into your diet. Kefir and buttermilk promote a healthy gut microbiome, while ginger tea aids digestion. Prune juice can relieve constipation, peppermint tea reduces bloating, coconut water helps with diarrhea, and black coffee may benefit fatty liver.

Feeling clogged up or constantly bloated? Has your bowel movement become irregular, sluggish, or uncomfortable? You’re not alone. Millions of people across the globe struggle with digestive issues. Be it bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, these digestive issues can disrupt daily life. Well, what if the relief might be as close as your kitchen? Yes, that’s right. These common digestive issues could be dealt with easily, using some kitchen staples. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford, has shared six beverages that can naturally support gut health and address common digestive complaints. Let’s take a look.

In a video shared on Instagram, Dr. Sethi has stressed the importance of a balanced gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms living in the intestines that aids digestion and overall health. He suggested adding kefir or buttermilk to the diet for a healthy gut microbiome. “The best beverage for healing your gut microbiome is kefir or buttermilk,” he said. Kefir, a fermented milk drink, and buttermilk are probiotics and contain live cultures that can help restore microbial balance, especially after antibiotic use or digestive issues. These probiotics may reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and improve digestion.

Ginger tea has been used for centuries due to its therapeutic effects. Dr. Sethi too recommends drinking ginger tea if you are struggling with sluggish digestion. Known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties, ginger stimulates the digestive enzymes and helps the body break down food more efficiently. A warm cup after meals can ease indigestion and reduce discomfort.

Millions of people suffer from constipation. A diet that lacks fiber and is filled with ultra-processed foods and sugar only accelerates it. Want a quick fix? Dr. Sethi suggests prune juice. “The best beverage for constipation is prune juice,” he says. Prune is rich in fiber and sorbitol, a natural laxative, which helps the stool to soften and promote regular bowel movements. Studies also suggest that prune juice is effective in relieving mild to moderate constipation.

Most people complain about being bloated. Dr. Sethi suggests peppermint tea as a natural remedy. “The best beverage for bloating is peppermint tea,” he says. Peppermint contains menthol, which relaxes the gastrointestinal tract and reduces gas. Clinical trials have shown peppermint oil, a key component, can alleviate symptoms of bloating and irritable bowel syndrome. It can also provide a soothing effect, especially after a heavy meal.

How to make it: Drink fresh coconut water directly from the coconut or use packaged, unsweetened coconut water.(Images: canva)

Those with diarrhea can drink coconut water, as suggested by the gastroenterologist. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, and hence, coconut water can help with rehydration. Packed with electrolytes like potassium and sodium, coconut water can help to restore hydration and also support recovery.

Fatty liver disease, especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is becoming common among people. While a nutritious diet and exercise can help the condition, Dr. Sethi suggests to also add black coffee. Coffee’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce liver fat and inflammation. However, it is important not to add sugar or cream, as this could counteract these benefits.