4.4 The Nurse’s Role in the Promotion of Gut Health
3 min read•june 18, 2024
is crucial for overall well-being, affecting everything from to . The balance of our digestive system and gut plays a key role in maintaining proper bodily functions and preventing chronic diseases.
Nurses need to understand how diet, , and various conditions impact gut health. By recognizing these factors, they can better support patients in maintaining a healthy gut and addressing related health issues.
Gut Health and the Role of Nurses
Concept of gut health homeostasis
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- Balance and stability of the digestive system and gut microbiome maintains proper digestion, absorption, and elimination of nutrients while supporting a healthy gut barrier function
- Gut health is crucial for overall well-being as it significantly influences immune system function, with 70-80% of immune cells residing in the gut and the gut microbiome helping train and regulate immune responses
- Proper gut health affects nutrient absorption and utilization, ensuring the body receives essential nutrients for optimal functioning
- Gut health impacts mental health through the , where the gut microbiome communicates with the central nervous system, and imbalances have been linked to mood disorders, anxiety, and depression
- Maintaining gut health homeostasis contributes to chronic disease prevention, including , type 2 , cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers
- The plays a crucial role in regulating gut function and communicating with the central nervous system
Dietary influences on gut microbiome
- , non-digestible plant fibers found in foods like garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, and bananas, feed beneficial gut bacteria and promote their growth and activity
- , live microorganisms found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, help restore and maintain a healthy gut microbiome balance when consumed
- Consuming a diverse range of nutrient-dense foods supports a diverse and resilient gut microbiome while providing essential nutrients for optimal digestive function
- Processed and high-sugar foods can disrupt the gut microbiome balance, promoting the growth of harmful bacteria and , and have been linked to increased ()
- A diet rich in diverse plant-based foods promotes , which is associated with better overall health outcomes
Medication effects on gut health
- can disrupt the gut microbiome balance by killing beneficial bacteria, potentially leading to and infections, but may help restore the gut microbiome after antibiotic use
- (PPIs) reduce stomach acid production, altering digestive processes, and long-term use may lead to nutrient malabsorption (vitamin B12, magnesium) and increased risk of enteric infections and C. difficile
- can cause gastrointestinal irritation, increase intestinal permeability, and may lead to ulcers, bleeding, and inflammation in the digestive tract, with risks increasing with higher doses and prolonged use
- can slow down and cause , potentially leading to intestinal blockages and bacterial overgrowth, and chronic use can result in
Gut health vs pathological conditions
- (IBD), including and , is characterized by chronic inflammation of the digestive tract and associated with gut microbiome imbalances (), and may benefit from dietary modifications and probiotic supplementation
- (IBS), a functional gastrointestinal disorder affecting bowel habits and causing abdominal pain, is linked to gut microbiome alterations and increased intestinal permeability, and may improve with a low- and stress management techniques
- , an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption, leads to damage of the small intestine lining and nutrient malabsorption, requiring strict adherence to a gluten-free diet for management
- Metabolic disorders, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, are associated with gut microbiome imbalances that may contribute to low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance, and prebiotic and probiotic interventions may help improve metabolic health
Factors affecting gut health
- influences the growth of different bacterial species and affects nutrient absorption
- is essential for protecting the gut lining from harmful substances and
- Stress can impact gut motility and alter the balance of gut bacteria, potentially leading to digestive issues
Key Terms to Review (96)
Alcohol: Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that can depress the central nervous system. It is commonly consumed in beverages and has various effects on physical and mental health depending on the amount ingested.
Alcohol use: Alcohol use refers to the consumption of beverages containing ethanol, which can affect various bodily functions. In the context of nutrition and gut health, it impacts digestive processes and overall gastrointestinal well-being.
Alzheimer’s disease: Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes. It primarily affects older adults and is the most common cause of dementia.
Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea: Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) is a common side effect that can occur when taking antibiotics. It is characterized by the development of diarrhea, often watery or loose stools, as a result of disruptions to the normal gut microbiome caused by antibiotic use. This condition is particularly relevant in the context of the nurse's role in promoting gut health.
Antibiotics: Antibiotics are medications used to treat bacterial infections by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth. They are not effective against viral or fungal infections.
Antidepressants: Antidepressants are medications that are primarily used to treat depressive disorders by altering brain chemistry. They can also impact gut health due to the gut-brain axis.
Antioxidant properties: Antioxidant properties refer to the ability of certain substances to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage. These properties play a crucial role in maintaining cellular health and preventing chronic diseases.
Bad cholesterol: Bad cholesterol, also known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), is a type of cholesterol that can accumulate in the walls of arteries. High levels of LDL cholesterol increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Bifidobacterium: Bifidobacterium is a genus of Gram-positive, anaerobic, non-spore-forming bacteria that are commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract. These bacteria are considered probiotics and play a crucial role in maintaining gut health and promoting overall wellness across the lifespan.
Biotin: Biotin is a water-soluble B-vitamin (B7) essential for various metabolic processes. It plays a critical role in converting food into energy and maintaining healthy skin, hair, and neurological function.
Bristol Stool Scale: The Bristol Stool Scale is a diagnostic tool used to classify the form and consistency of human stool. It is an important indicator of gastrointestinal health and can provide valuable insights for nurses in promoting gut health.
C. difficile: C. difficile, also known as Clostridioides difficile, is a type of bacteria that can cause severe and potentially life-threatening diarrhea and inflammation of the colon, particularly in individuals who have recently taken antibiotics or have weakened immune systems. This bacterium is a significant concern in healthcare settings and can lead to significant complications if not properly managed.
The term 'C. difficile' is particularly relevant in the context of 4.3 The Function of Digestive Organs and 4.4 The Nurse's Role in the Promotion of Gut Health, as this bacterium directly impacts the function and health of the digestive system.
Carcinogens: Carcinogens are substances or exposures that can lead to cancer by altering cellular metabolism or damaging DNA directly in cells. They can be chemical, physical, or biological agents.
Celiac Disease: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the small intestine when gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, is consumed. This leads to inflammation, damage to the intestinal lining, and impaired nutrient absorption. Celiac disease is closely tied to various aspects of nutrition and health, including minerals, supplements, digestive function, gut health, hematological wellness, and gastrointestinal conditions.
Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. It is essential for producing hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods.
Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a late-stage liver disease characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue, leading to impaired liver function. It is often caused by chronic alcohol abuse, hepatitis, and other conditions that harm the liver over time.
Clostridium difficile: Clostridium difficile is a bacterium that causes inflammation of the colon, known as colitis. It often occurs after the use of antibiotic medications that disrupt normal gut flora.
Colon cancer: Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon), part of the digestive tract. It typically starts as small, noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps that can develop into cancer over time.
Constipation: Constipation is a condition characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty in passing stools. It often results in hard, dry stools and can cause discomfort or pain.
COVID-19: COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can have systemic effects, including impacting the digestive system and gut health.
Crohn's Disease: Crohn's disease is a chronic, inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly the end of the small intestine (the ileum) and the beginning of the colon. It is characterized by periods of flare-ups and remission, and can significantly impact the body's ability to digest and absorb nutrients, leading to various nutritional and digestive complications.
Dehydration: Dehydration is a condition that occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to an imbalance in electrolytes and impaired bodily functions. It can significantly affect various systems, including neurological, pulmonary, musculoskeletal, and integumentary systems.
Diabetes: Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood glucose levels due to the body's inability to produce or effectively use insulin. It significantly impacts nutritional needs and requires careful management of diet and lifestyle.
Diarrhea: Diarrhea is the frequent passage of loose, watery stools. It can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance if not managed properly.
Drugs: Drugs are chemical substances that can alter the physiological functions of the body. They can be used for medical purposes, such as treating diseases, or recreational purposes, which may lead to addiction and health issues.
Dysbiosis: Dysbiosis is an imbalance in the gut microbiota, where harmful bacteria outnumber beneficial ones. This condition can disrupt normal digestive processes and contribute to various health issues.
Dysbiosis: Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance or disruption in the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome, the trillions of microorganisms that reside in the human digestive tract. This imbalance can have significant impacts on various aspects of health, including digestive function, immune response, and overall wellbeing.
Electrolyte disturbances: Electrolyte disturbances are imbalances in the levels of electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and calcium within the body. These imbalances can significantly affect bodily functions, including nerve signaling and muscle contractions.
Enteric Nervous System: The enteric nervous system (ENS) is the intrinsic nervous system of the gastrointestinal tract, responsible for controlling the function of the digestive organs. It is often referred to as the 'second brain' due to its complex structure and ability to operate independently of the central nervous system.
Fiber: Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. It helps regulate the body's use of sugars, keeping hunger and blood sugar in check.
Fiber: Fiber refers to the indigestible parts of plant-based foods that pass through the human digestive system without being broken down. It plays a crucial role in maintaining gut health, managing chronic conditions, and promoting overall wellness.
FODMAP Diet: The FODMAP diet is a nutritional approach that focuses on the management of gastrointestinal symptoms by limiting the intake of specific types of carbohydrates known as FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols). This diet is commonly used to help individuals with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other functional gastrointestinal disorders manage their symptoms.
Folate: Folate is a B-vitamin essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. It plays a crucial role in cell division and is particularly important during periods of rapid growth such as pregnancy and fetal development.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation. Common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing.
Gastrointestinal pH: Gastrointestinal pH refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the digestive tract, which is crucial for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. The pH levels vary throughout the different segments of the gastrointestinal system and play a vital role in the nurse's promotion of gut health.
Gut health: Gut health refers to the balance and function of microorganisms in the digestive tract. It is crucial for overall well-being as it affects digestion, immune function, and even mental health.
Gut homeostasis: Gut homeostasis is the balanced and stable state of the digestive system, maintaining optimal health and function. It involves a harmonious relationship between gut microbiota, immune responses, and digestive processes.
Gut Microbiota Diversity: Gut microbiota diversity refers to the variety and richness of the microbial communities residing within the human gastrointestinal tract. It is a crucial aspect of gut health, as a diverse gut microbiome is associated with numerous benefits for overall health and well-being.
Gut Motility: Gut motility refers to the coordinated contractions and relaxations of the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract that facilitate the movement of food, liquids, and waste through the digestive system. This process is essential for proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste elimination.
Gut-brain axis: The gut-brain axis is the bidirectional communication network linking the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. It involves multiple systems, including the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems, to regulate gut and mental health.
Gut-Brain Axis: The gut-brain axis refers to the bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. This complex network involves the interaction between the gut microbiome, the enteric nervous system, and the brain, allowing for the integration of signals that influence various physiological and behavioral processes.
Gut-liver axis: The gut-liver axis is the bidirectional relationship between the gastrointestinal tract and the liver, where they communicate through various pathways including the portal vein and bile ducts. This interaction plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic, immune, and inflammatory homeostasis.
Hepatic encephalopathy: Hepatic encephalopathy is a decline in brain function resulting from severe liver disease. Toxins that are normally removed by the liver accumulate in the bloodstream and affect the brain.
Hepatic inflammation: Hepatic inflammation is the swelling and irritation of the liver tissue. It can result from various factors such as infections, toxins, or autoimmune conditions.
High-fat diets: High-fat diets are dietary plans where a significant portion of daily caloric intake comes from fats. These diets can impact digestive health and overall metabolism.
Homeostasis: Homeostasis is the process by which biological systems maintain stability while adjusting to changing external conditions. It is crucial for the proper functioning of organisms, ensuring that internal environments remain consistent and balanced.
Homeostasis of the gut: Homeostasis of the gut is the maintenance of a stable internal environment within the gastrointestinal tract. It involves a balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria, proper nutrient absorption, and effective waste elimination.
Huntington’s disease: Huntington's disease is a genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It impacts movement, cognition, and can also affect gut motility and overall digestive health.
Hyperlipidemia: Hyperlipidemia is a condition characterized by abnormally elevated levels of lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides, in the blood. It is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke.
Hypertension: Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure levels above the normal range. It significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Immunity: Immunity is the body's ability to resist harmful microorganisms and toxins, protecting against infections and diseases. It involves complex interactions between various cells, tissues, and organs to recognize and neutralize threats.
Inflammation: Inflammation is the body's immune response to injury or harmful stimuli, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain. It is a protective mechanism aimed at removing the injurious stimuli and initiating the healing process.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic, relapsing inflammatory conditions that primarily affect the gastrointestinal tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. IBD can significantly impact an individual's nutritional status, digestive function, and overall well-being, making it an important consideration across various nursing and nutrition-related topics.
Intestinal microbiota: Intestinal microbiota refers to the diverse community of microorganisms living in the human gastrointestinal tract. These microorganisms play a crucial role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.
Intestinal Permeability: Intestinal permeability refers to the ability of the intestinal lining to selectively allow the passage of nutrients, water, and other molecules while restricting the entry of harmful substances, pathogens, and toxins. This term is crucial in understanding the nurse's role in promoting gut health, evaluating nutritional strategies to impact gastrointestinal wellness, and the impact of nutrition on gastrointestinal wellness across the lifespan and in chronic gastrointestinal illnesses.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain, discomfort, and altered bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. IBS is a complex condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life and is an important consideration in the promotion of gut health, the assessment and analysis of the impact of nutrition on the gastrointestinal system, the planning and evaluation of nutritional strategies to improve gastrointestinal wellness, and the impact of nutrition on gastrointestinal wellness across the lifespan.
Lactobacillus: Lactobacillus is a genus of bacteria that are a significant component of the human gut microbiota. They play an essential role in maintaining gastrointestinal health by producing lactic acid and inhibiting harmful bacteria growth.
Laxatives: Laxatives are substances that promote bowel movements to relieve constipation. They can work through various mechanisms including increasing stool bulk, softening stool, or stimulating intestinal muscles.
Leaky Gut: Leaky gut, also known as increased intestinal permeability, is a condition where the tight junctions between the cells lining the intestinal wall become compromised, allowing larger molecules, such as undigested food particles, bacteria, and toxins, to pass through the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream. This can trigger an inflammatory response and contribute to various health issues.
Medications: Medications are substances used to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases and conditions. They can affect nutritional status and overall health, especially in patients with digestive or pulmonary issues.
Mediterranean Diet: The Mediterranean diet is a plant-based eating pattern that emphasizes the consumption of whole, minimally processed foods commonly found in the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. This diet is characterized by a high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil, along with moderate consumption of fish, poultry, and red wine. The Mediterranean diet has been extensively studied for its numerous health benefits, including its positive impact on evidence-based practice and nutrition, gut health, neurological wellness, endocrine wellness, hematological wellness, cardiovascular wellness, pulmonary wellness, and musculoskeletal and integumentary wellness.
Mental health: Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how individuals think, feel, and act, particularly in relation to stress management and interpersonal relationships.
Metabolic syndrome: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
Metabolism: Metabolism is the set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms that convert food into energy, build and repair tissues, and manage waste. It encompasses catabolic pathways that break down molecules to produce energy, and anabolic pathways that utilize this energy to construct components of cells such as proteins and nucleic acids.
Metformin: Metformin is an oral medication primarily used to manage blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It works by decreasing hepatic glucose production and improving insulin sensitivity.
Microbial growth: Microbial growth is the increase in the number of microorganisms in a given environment. In the human gut, this can influence digestion and overall gastrointestinal health.
Microbiome: The microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, that reside within the human body, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. These microorganisms play a crucial role in various aspects of human health and nutrition.
Microbiota: Microbiota are the trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, that live in the human digestive tract. They play a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and overall health.
Mineral deficiencies: Mineral deficiencies occur when the body does not get or absorb enough essential minerals from food. These deficiencies can impact various bodily functions and overall health, particularly gut health.
Mucosal Barrier Function: The mucosal barrier function refers to the protective mechanisms of the gastrointestinal tract that prevent the entry of harmful substances, pathogens, and antigens while allowing the absorption of essential nutrients. This barrier is crucial in maintaining gut health and preventing the development of various gastrointestinal disorders.
Multiple sclerosis: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the central nervous system, where the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers. This leads to communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body, potentially resulting in permanent nerve damage or deterioration.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a class of medications that reduce inflammation, pain, and fever by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are involved in the inflammatory response. These drugs are widely used to manage a variety of conditions, including arthritis, menstrual cramps, headaches, and post-operative pain, and play an important role in the promotion of gut health.
Obesity: Obesity is a chronic condition characterized by excessive body fat that increases the risk of various health issues. It is typically defined by a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher.
Opioid-Induced Bowel Dysfunction: Opioid-induced bowel dysfunction (OIBD) refers to the gastrointestinal side effects that can occur as a result of opioid medication use. This condition can lead to constipation, delayed gastric emptying, and other digestive issues, which are particularly relevant in the context of promoting gut health.
Opioids: Opioids are a class of drugs that include both prescription pain relievers and illegal drugs like heroin. They work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain but can have significant effects on the digestive system.
Parkinson’s disease: Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can cause tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. It results from the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain's substantia nigra region.
Pathogens: Pathogens are microorganisms that can cause disease in their host. They include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Peristalsis: Peristalsis refers to the coordinated, wave-like muscular contractions that propel food and other contents through the digestive tract. This involuntary movement is essential for the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal system, facilitating the movement of food, liquids, and waste products from the esophagus to the anus.
Pharmacology: Pharmacology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the study of drugs and their effects on the human body. It encompasses the understanding, development, and use of medications for therapeutic purposes.
Prebiotics: Prebiotics are non-digestible food ingredients that selectively stimulate the growth and/or activity of beneficial gut microorganisms, promoting overall gastrointestinal health. They serve as a crucial component in the nurse's role in promoting gut health, addressing chronic neurological illnesses, implementing nutritional strategies, and supporting gastrointestinal wellness across the lifespan.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are often referred to as 'good' or 'friendly' bacteria that support gut health and overall well-being.
Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms, primarily bacteria, that when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits to the host. They are often referred to as the 'good' or 'friendly' bacteria that reside in the human gastrointestinal tract and play a crucial role in maintaining gut health and overall well-being.
Proton pump inhibitors: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a class of medications that reduce stomach acid production by blocking the enzyme in the stomach wall responsible for acid secretion. They are commonly used to treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, and other digestive disorders.
Proton Pump Inhibitors: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a class of medications that work by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcers, and other gastrointestinal disorders by inhibiting the action of the proton pump, which is responsible for the secretion of stomach acid.
Satiety: Satiety is the feeling of fullness and satisfaction after eating, which prevents further consumption. It plays a crucial role in regulating food intake and maintaining energy balance.
Saturated fat: Saturated fat is a type of dietary fat found in animal products and some plant oils. It is solid at room temperature and linked to increased levels of LDL cholesterol, which can impact cardiovascular health.
Short-Chain Fatty Acids: Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are a group of saturated fatty acids with fewer than 6 carbon atoms. They are produced primarily through the fermentation of dietary fiber by gut bacteria and play a crucial role in promoting gut health and overall gastrointestinal wellness.
Sodium: Sodium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. It is commonly consumed through salt (sodium chloride) in the diet.
Sodium intake: Sodium intake is the amount of sodium consumed through food and beverages. It plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
Statins: Statins are a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. They work by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which plays a central role in the production of cholesterol in the liver.
Stroke: A stroke is a medical emergency where blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to brain damage and impair various bodily functions depending on the area affected.
Supplements: Supplements are products taken orally that contain dietary ingredients intended to enhance or complement one's diet. They can include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, and enzymes.
Ulcerative Colitis: Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine, causing inflammation and ulceration of the innermost lining of the colon and rectum. It is characterized by periods of flare-ups and remission, and can have significant impacts on the digestive system and overall health.
Villi: Villi are small, finger-like projections that line the inner surface of the small intestine. They play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, as well as promoting overall gut health and function within the gastrointestinal system.
Vitamin K: Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for blood clotting and bone health. It exists in two main forms: K1 (phylloquinone) found in plants, and K2 (menaquinone) produced by bacteria in the human gut.
Water: Water is a vital nutrient essential for numerous bodily functions, including digestion, absorption, and temperature regulation. It makes up about 60% of the human body and is crucial for maintaining overall health.