Srinagar, Aug 23: Our everyday drinks play essential roles in our overall wellbeing. Experts at AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford, shared valuable insights on which drink is good for everyday consumption, and which should be avoided.
“I’m a gut doctor. And here are 9 things I refuse to gatekeep about everyday drinks,” wrote Dr Saurabh Sethi, board-certified gastroenterologist, hepatologist, and interventional endoscopist trained at AIIMS on Instagram. Here are 9 things that he suggested:
1. Warm water > ice cold
Cold drinks can slow digestion temporarily. Start your day with warm or room temp water to support gut motility.
2. Coffee is a gut stimulant
Use it wisely. It helps with bowel movements and focus. But too much (especially on an empty stomach) can cause reflux, urgency, and anxiety.
3. Green tea is underrated
It’s anti-inflammatory, supports metabolism, and balances gut bacteria. Plus, L-theanine keeps your brain calm while caffeine keeps it alert.
4. Skip the juice, eat the fruit
Juices can lead to sugar spike with no fiber. Whole fruits are loaded with fibre and antioxidants that your gut microbes actually use.
5. Kombucha isn’t always a health drink
Some brands are packed with sugar. Look for ones with <5g sugar per serving or go for plain kefir or yogurt drinks.
6. Herbal teas are functional medicine
Turmeric, ginger, and fennel aren’t just cozy. They reduce bloat, ease inflammation, and support gut lining repair.
7. Chia or basil seed drinks support digestion
They absorb water, form a gut-friendly gel, and feed your good bacteria. Great for regularity and fiber on the go.
8. Alcohol damages your gut
Even small amounts disrupt gut bacteria, increase permeability (leaky gut), and mess with sleep. Hydrate well and limit intake if you drink.
9. Leafy herbs are small but mighty for gut health
Mint, cilantro, parsley, and basil contain polyphenols that support digestion and feed good bacteria. Raw herbs are more nutritious than when cooked.
