Description
Approximately 25 million Americans will suffer from GI mucosal complaints at some point in their lifetimes. While such discomfort was originally thought to arise from stress, spicy foods, alcohol consumption, gastric acid production or heredity, today it is known that common bacteria from food is often the root cause. Since almost 80% of pathogens enter the body either through mucosal tissue or stay localized on mucosal surfaces, a healthy mucosal lining is of the utmost importance for digestive health. DGL supports gastrointestinal health by accelerating the secretion rate of mucus by the gastric and esophageal mucosa, helping to protect tissues. This unique licorice extract contains only biologically active flavonoids, without glycyrrhizin, for targeted usage in the GI tract.1
Why We Love It
- We love how this product provides a unique blend of nutrients that are designed to maintain a healthy lining within the esophagus and stomach as well as maintain a normal inflammatory balance.
- The DGL (deglycyrrhized licorice root), marshmallow root, aloe vera concentrate and slippery elm bark all aid in soothing the lining of the esophagus and stomach.
- In addition to providing support for the lining of the upper GI tract (esophagus, stomach), we also always want to ask the question “why?” Why is the lining of the esophagus or stomach being irritated? Is it H. Pylori? Food sensitivities/allergies? Bacterial overgrowth? Alcohol?
- Figuring out the “why” is very important in addition to supporting the irritated lining with the ingredients that were formulated for GI Protect.
Ingredients
DGL†
The formula includes GutGard®, a clinically studied form of deglycyrrhized licorice that provides improved control of the glycyrrhized content and a rich source of flavonoids. In a clinical trial, 56% of subjects receiving GutGard® showed marked improvement compared to placebo.2 In another study of 874 patients comparing the effects of DGL and cimetidine (another known therapy), it was found that DGL was effective in relieving minor GI discomfort.3
Marshmallow Root†
Marshmallow root is a traditional soothing herb with a long history of use for coating the gastric lining. Marshmallow root contains mucilage polysaccharides, which swell when mixed with liquid, providing a soothing property to mucous membranes.5 The German Commission E has approved the use of marshmallow root for promoting a normal inflammatory process within the gastric mucosa. The nonofficial British Herbal Compendium 1st edition also indicates marshmallow root for soothing the stomach and intestinal tract.5
Aloe Vera Concentrate†
Aloe vera, like marshmallow root and slippery elm bark, is a soothing herb that has been used throughout history, and has been shown to maintain normal inflammatory balance.
Specifically, studies have shown aloe vera is beneficial to the gastric mucosa due in part by its ability to balance stomach acid levels and promote healthy mucus production.6-8 An animal study examining the effects of aloe vera on gastric acid secretion and gastric mucosal health found aloe vera balanced gastric acid secretion and was found to balance minor changes in gastric acid secretion and at low doses protected mucosa from temporary influxes of excess gastric acid.9
Slippery Elm Bark†
Slippery elm bark is a traditional soothing herb that has been used for centuries. Slippery elm bark is rich in mucilage, which helps maintain normal inflammatory balance.10
References
† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- https://nccam.nih.gov/health/licoriceroot
- Raveendra et al. An extract of Glycyrhiza glabra (GutGard®) alleviates symptoms of functional dyspepsia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2011.
- Kassir, Z. A. Endoscopic controlled trial of four drug regimens in the treatment of chronic duodenal ulceration. Ir Med J. 1985; 78(6):153-156.
- Integrative Medicine Communications. Integrative Medicine Access. Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 2000.
- Engels, G. Marshmallow. HerbalGram. 2007;(75):1-5.
- Blitz, J.J., Smith, J.W. et al. Aloe vera gel in peptic ulcer therapy: preliminary report. J Am Osteopath Assoc. 1963; 62:731-735.
- Rajendran A, Sobiya G et al. Study on the Effective Supplemenation of Aloe vera Gel Antacid to Peptic Ulcer Patients. Res J Medicine & Med Sci. 2008; 3(2):132-134.
- Gawron-Gzella, A., Witkowska-Banaszczak, E. et al. [Herbs and herbal preparations applied in the treatment of gastric hyperacidity, gastric and duodenal ulcer in cigarette smokers]. Przegl Lek. 2005; 62(10):1185-1187.
- Yusuf, S., Agunu, A. et al. The effect of Aloe vera A. Berger (Liliaceae) on gastric acid secretion and acute gastric mucosal injury in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2004; 93(1):33-37.
- https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/slippery-elm
Warnings
Always be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new nutritional supplement when pregnant or nursing. For children, we recommend speaking with your child's pediatrician regarding proper dosing. Store away from children.
Reviews