An NHS doctor is urging people to make a drink at home that may relieve bloating, improve gut health, and reduce inflammation. Dr Karan Rajan is a surgeon, author and social media personality – also known as “Dr Raj”.
The medical expert frequently shares valuable health information with his millions of followers, as well as explaining whether claims made by other users on Instagram and TikTok have any truth to them. In a new post, Dr Raj wants people to “stop buying” certain wellness drinks, and make their own instead.
People should, he said: “Start with lemons and oranges, as these both contain a soluble fibre called pectin, which acts as a prebiotic to feed your gut bacteria.” Dr Raj further explained: “Both these citrus fruits are rich in flavonoids, which reduce inflammation and contain high amounts of vitamin C, which is key to maintaining the gut lining.”
He then added a “cheeky bit of ginger for those gingerols”, which he said help to increase gastric emptying, “reducing the chances of bloating, nausea and discomfort”. Black pepper and turmeric were next on his list of ingredients, with the surgeon explaining these spices “work synergistically as the anti-inflammatory compound piperine in black pepper enhances the absorption or cucurmin found in turmeric”.
Olive oil went in next because “all the active compounds I’ve mentioned so far are fat soluble, therefore more easily absorbed with a source of dietary fat – not to mention olive oil is rich in polyphenols which itself is a prebiotic for your gut bugs”.
Dr Raj said that “most of the commercial wellness shots are devoid of fibre” because the “most important bit” – the pith and the pulp – are “filtered out and discarded” after juicing. Returning to his own recipe, he concluded with: “All the fibre and acidity could so far could add some bitterness, which is why I add some honey to the mix and has some prebiotic properties too.
“And add some mint for that menthol which relaxes the muscles of the intestine, and helps relieve abdominal discomfort. Mix it all up and add some water as desired, depending on how chunky you want it.”