Full Capacity Living…
A simple, ancient tool to support smoother, stronger digestion
Most people hear “bitters” and think of mixology… but long before they flavored cocktails, digestive bitters were used as a natural way to strengthen and support healthy digestion. And they’re making a well-deserved comeback.
What Are Digestive Bitters?
They’re herbal extracts made from bitter-tasting plants like gentian, dandelion, burdock root, artichoke leaf, orange peel, and fennel.
These herbs activate the body’s bitter receptors—found not only on the tongue, but throughout the digestive tract. Over time we have moved away from the bitter tastes of many leafy vegetables and herbs, and developed more of a taste for sweet or non-bitter foods which has an impact on our overall digestion.
Why Bitters Help Digestion
When those receptors are stimulated, your body responds with a wave of digestive support:
- More stomach acid → better breakdown of food
- Enhanced bile flow → improved fat digestion and detoxification
- Stronger enzyme release → less bloating and heaviness
- Better motility → smoother, more regular elimination
- Regulated appetite → helpful for balanced eating and cravings
It’s like reminding your digestive system to “wake up” and do what it’s designed to do.
How to Use Them
Bitters work best when taken 10–15 minutes before meals, especially heavier ones.
Try a teaspoon or a few drops on the tongue (yes, the taste matters!), or mix into a little water. The effect is more potent when not diluted but if you must…
Who Might Benefit?
People who experience:
- bloating or fullness after meals
- slow or sluggish digestion
- low stomach acid ( a post is coming about how this can feel like too much acid as well)
- mild nausea (first thing in the morning or with supplements?)
- constipation
- PMS-related bloating
- post-holiday digestive sluggishness (so timely isn’t this?)
When to Avoid Bitters
Bitters may not be appropriate if you have ulcers, active GERD, gallstones, or are pregnant—so check with your practitioner if you’re unsure.
Two of my favorites below but you can also make your own if you are curious and clever! Here is a primer from Mountain Rose Herbs which is also a great organic clean source for herbs. https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/tummy-bitters-recipe
Link for Better Bitters on Amazon (no affiliates here!) This one you can use prior to meals.
This formulation is great if you are feeling bloated or having indigestion.
Link – https://urbanmoonshine.com/
Urban Moonshine has many options.
For those of you avoiding any alcohol you can find bitters that are denatured in vinegar as well.
Again…thank you for being here and supporting the work I love.
If this resonates with you and you think someone you know could benefit please share this email. This is how we can reach more people.
Together we can make the world a happier, healthier place.
In best health,
Karen
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