How native Indian herbs and ingredients help in the growth and development of gut microbiota

Preclinical and clinical studies have solidly shown that early-life nutrition may greatly alter gut microbiota and significantly affect brain development and functioning. However, there is a lack of studies that specifically have investigated whether specific nutrients or nutritional supplements, known to promote brain development, indeed also influence the gut microbiota.
Taken together, our understanding of the relationship comes from pre-clinical studies, the gut is often referred to as the body’s second brain, given its profound influence on physical, cognitive, and immune development. For growing adults and children, in a critical phase of growth, nurturing a healthy gut microbiota is particularly essential.
Not only is the gut microbiota programming the gut, it also has multidimensional effects on remote organs, where its longer-term programming effects are little understood.
Native Indian herbs and ingredients, celebrated for their nutritional richness and Ayurvedic significance, are uniquely suited to foster gut health, especially in growing adults and children.
Native Indian Ingredients — Why Are They So Good?
India’s culinary and medicinal traditions are replete with gut-friendly ingredients that cultivate microbial diversity.
India has a rich tradition of using foods in its culinary as well as medicinal practices that promotes a healthy and diverse gut microbiome.
Ragi (Finger Millet): Ragi is a rich source of calcium and iron and contains a high amount of dietary fiber which is also essential for proper functioning of the gut and for the growth of the beneficial gut bacteria. It is easy to digest and this is why it is given to children.
Amaranth: Being rich in protein, Amaranth also contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation and improves the numbers of normal microbiota in the gut.
Moringa: Moringa is known to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects hence it enhances the immune system as well as the good bacteria in the gut.
Flax Seeds: Flax Seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber which helps in peristalsis and increases the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Herby Angel is a organic brand which offers premium quality organic baby and kids products that encompasses the pure essence of Ayurveda and authenticity in nutrition and personal care. They blend traditional Ayurvedic Indian wisdom with modern scientific accuracy to meet the changing demands of today – using the potency of precious oils, pure herbs, natural extracts that nourish your baby with the true gift of nourishment. Herby Angel have range of nutritional mixes for your kids which are specially made for the Indian gut and for your kid’s development.
Formulated for an Indian gut, these ingredients allow easy digestion and absorption of nutrients and help with establishing the immune system over the long term. According to Dr. Swathi, Head of Research & Product Development at Herbal Chakra, “Native Indian ingredients are precisely aligned with the nutritional requirements of Indian children that not only helps in the establishment of a healthy microbiome at an early age but also prevents chronic disorders from developing during adulthood.”
From Digestion to Development: Why Gut Health Matters
Food mixes of this type, such as Herby Angel, typically include a range of wholegrains, lentils, vegetables and fruit, fortified with herbs including Amla and Brahmi, so you don’t miss out on any key nutrients. These range from macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to essential micronutrients like DHA, Choline, and Vitamin C.
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) – An omega-3 fatty acid, DHA is essential for the development of the brain and helps in the formation of healthy neurons and also enhances cognitive functions including memory and learning.
Choline: It is essential for the development and functioning of the brain and is required for the synthesis of acetylcholine which is a neurotransmitter that is linked with mood, memory and movement.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is popular for boosting the formation absorption immune of and system; blood breakdown however, vessels of it that nutrients also supply is helps the well in brain realized. the with formation nutrients.
These micronutrients all work together to support both physical and cognitive growth & a balanced microbiome that helps in:
Digestive Efficiency : Ensuring effective breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
Immune Function: Supporting the development of a robust immune system.
Cognitive Development: Aids in the maintenance of the well-being of the brain and cognitive function through the formation of the essential neurotransmitters.
Herbal Chakra’s organic blends are designed to facilitate these functions by including extra ingredients like:
Dates and Pea Protein: Enhances the immune system as well as the bones and muscles.
Guava and Chikoo: These fiber- and antioxidant-rich fruits enhance gut health and overall growth.
Pumpkin Seeds and Almonds: These little nuggets of healthy fats and proteins give growth to the brain and energy.
Amla and Brahmi: Ayurvedic herbs that enhance memory, immunity, and digestion.
The Importance of Organic, Gut-Friendly Foods
Rounding up organic food mixes with no toxic additives such as stabilizers, preservatives, or even synthetic flavours contributes to the perfect habitat for gut microbiota development. They help children ease gut irritation and fight gut inflammation, making it easy for the child to digest the food without any hassle or impairing body nutrients. For modern parents with their endless loop of responsibilities, ensuring their children get a proper diet is challenging. Which is why these mixes make meal planning easier, getting you more than one way to supply balanced, wholesome nutrition without compromising on quality.
“Our mixes are ready to support parents in setting up their children’s health to be able to fit in with their busy lives,” adds Dr Swathi. “Focusing on gut health via native Indian herbs and ingredients, we empower parents to put wellness on their priority list without stress”.
By nurturing a flourishing gut microbiota, they set the stage for a child’s physical, cognitive and immune development.
Authored by: Dr. Swathi, Head of Research & Product Development, Herbal Chakra