Eric First, M.D., FAIS and Matthew Roberts, Ph.D.

When it comes to gut health, most of us think about probiotics, the beneficial bacteria that live in our digestive tract. But did you know that prebiotics are just as important for maintaining a healthy microbiome? Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that feeds the good bacteria in our gut, helping them grow and thrive. In this article, we'll explore the importance of prebiotic support for a healthy microbiome and highlight the benefits of mushrooms as a fiber source due to their high beta-glucan content. We'll also introduce you to a prebiotic supplement that can help you support your gut health: R3SET Stressed Gut.

What Are Prebiotics, and Why Are They Important?

Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that can't be digested by the human body. Instead, they pass through the digestive tract mostly undigested, reaching the colon where they become food for the good bacteria in our gut. Prebiotics help the good bacteria grow and reproduce, which can have a wide range of benefits for our health.

Research has shown that a healthy microbiome can help support our immune system, reduce inflammation, and even improve our mental health. Prebiotics have been shown to help increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, including Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species. These bacteria can help break down food, produce vitamins and short-chain fatty acids (such as butyrate), and protect against harmful bacteria and pathogens.

Mushrooms as a Prebiotic Fiber Source

Mushrooms are both delicious and nutritious. They are an excellent source of prebiotic fiber, specifically beta-glucans. These complex carbohydrates, found in the cell walls of many types of mushrooms, have been shown to have prebiotic effects in the gut.

Research has shown that beta-glucans can increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, including Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species. They can also reduce inflammation in the gut and improve gut barrier function. Additionally, beta-glucans have immune-modulating effects that help boost the immune system and protect against infections.

Mushrooms are known for their numerous health benefits. They are an excellent source of selenium, vitamin D, B vitamins, ergothioneine, copper, potassium and beta glucans. They are low in calories and free of fat, cholesterol and gluten. They are also very low in sodium. In addition to their prebiotic effects discussed earlier, Beta-glucans offer a wide range of health benefits such as broad support for the immune system, protection against brain degeneration and reduced stress.

Mushrooms are also rich in protein and fiber. Their fiber, potassium and vitamin C content may contribute to cardiovascular health as well as mitigate the risk of developing serious health conditions such as dementia, heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

R3SET Stressed Gut: A Prebiotic Supplement for Gut Health

If you're looking for a convenient and effective way to support your gut health with prebiotics, consider trying R3SET Stressed Gut. This prebiotic supplement is specifically formulated to support gut health and reduce stress-related digestive issues (think: bloating, indigestion, gas, abdominal fullness). R3SET Stressed Gut is the first all-in-one natural gut health daily supplement solution that works in two ways: 

1. Supports a healthy gut lining and microbiome: It contains OrMiu Gut Health Mushroom Blend™, grown in Northern California. This certified organic blend of functional mushrooms (Chaga, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Reishi) selected for their high amount of beta-glucans which supply the microbiome prebiotic fibers, as well as supporting a healthy immune response. These fibers serve as food for the good bacteria in the gut, helping to maintain a healthy balance, as well as produce products that help maintain a healthy gut lining.
2. Helps relieve gastrointestinal digestive symptoms like heartburn, indigestion, bloating, gas, abdominal discomfort. R3SET Stressed Gut uses a unique blend of natural herbs and botanicals including: GutGard® Licorice Root which has been shown in a number of clinical studies to help reduce GI symptoms. Additionally, it contains peppermint oil to soothe and ginger to calm. And since we always address stress, the root cause of many GI issues, there is Ashwagandha, Valerian root and Black Pepper (beta caryophyllene). The supplement comes in easy-to-take capsules and is vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free.

Maintaining a healthy microbiome is essential for overall health and well-being. Prebiotics, including beta-glucans from mushrooms, can help support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can have a wide range of health benefits. If you're looking for a convenient and effective way to support your gut health, consider trying R3SET Stressed Gut, a prebiotic supplement that contains a blend of prebiotic fibers and adaptogenic herbs. With the right prebiotic support, you can help keep your gut healthy and happy for years to come.