When looking for ways to boost immunity this winter flu season, the correct diet to support gut health is vital, with Rooibos a key ingredient in every considered eating plan.
The South African Rooibos Council (SARC) affirms that drinking Rooibos tea can support gut health in numerous ways.
“The gut microbiome consists of trillions of bacteria, and viruses, many of which are really important to your health, from your immune system and heart health to weight and blood sugar levels,” noted Candice Sessions, Laager Rooibos Marketing Manager.
“For decades, Rooibos has been used by South Africans to treat a variety of stomach and gut ailments. This is because Rooibos has a range of attributes that contribute to a healthy gut, making it the perfect addition to your daily diet.”
What are the benefits of a healthy gut?
- The efficient extraction of nutrients from food.
- Assists the immune response.
- Supports the intestinal barrier function.
- Reduces intestinal inflammation.
- Improves metabolic function.
- Protects our brain health.
READ MORE | Can You Get A Rooibos Boost?
Here are 5 ways that Rooibos helps the gut
1. Rooibos has antioxidant effects
Rooibos tea contains flavonoids, as well as quercetin and phenolic acids which have antioxidant activity. A diet rich in antioxidants helps to neutralise free radicals in the body by reducing oxidative stress, contributing to overall gut health and preventing ‘leaky gut’. Antioxidant-rich diets are also known to lower the risk of certain diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
2. Rooibos has anti-inflammatory properties
Rooibos contains polyphenols such as flavonoids and dihydrochalcones, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking Rooibos tea will help reduce any inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract to minimise any digestive discomfort. Rooibos may also inhibit changes in the trace amine secretion profile caused by estrogen fluctuations which makes managing gut health easier for women who have a higher incidence of inflammatory gut health issues.
3. Rooibos has prebiotic potential
Prebiotics are a food source for your gut’s microorganisms which support gut health. Rooibos contains bio-active compounds – polyphenols – which act as prebiotics, encouraging the growth of beneficial gut bacteria while inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. Through this, Rooibos supports beneficial gut bacteria that restores and maintains the intestinal balance.
4. Rooibos has anti-spasmodic properties
Rooibos contains anti-spasmodic compounds which stimulate the body’s potassium ions to alleviate abdominal pain such as stomach cramps. Because Rooibos is caffeine-free, it normalises the release of intestinal fluids supported by the aforementioned prebiotics. Together, this is known to alleviate diarrhoea symptoms.
5. Rooibos contains no oxalic acid
Most tea blends contain oxalates or oxalate acids which, when consumed over time, can result in kidney stones and other health problems. Rooibos, however, doesn’t contain oxalic acid, reducing the risk of kidney stones and not interfering with important mineral absorption in the body.
SOURCE: The South African Rooibos Council
Author: Pedro van Gaalen
When he’s not writing about sport or health and fitness, Pedro is probably out training for his next marathon or ultra-marathon. He’s worked as a fitness professional and as a marketing and comms expert. He now combines his passions in his role as managing editor at Fitness magazine.
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