When we talk about getting the most out of our food, we’re really talking about nutrient absorption. It’s the process that transforms the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in our food into the fuel our bodies need to thrive.
But what if you’re missing out on nutrients despite eating well?
Why You May Be Falling Short On Nutrient AbsorptionImagine eating a colorful, balanced meal but missing out on all the nutrition it offers—this can happen if our bodies are not absorbing nutrients properly. Several factors affect nutrient absorption, including diet, stress levels, and, most importantly, gut health.
Nutrients need a healthy environment to travel through, which is why a strong and balanced gut microbiome is essential for absorbing all those beneficial vitamins and minerals.
Nutrient absorption is more than just a digestive function; it’s a vital step in keeping us energetic, supporting mental clarity, and helping the body repair and build.
Our gut is home to trillions of microbes—both beneficial and potentially harmful—that interact within our digestive system. When beneficial bacteria dominate, they aid digestion, support nutrient absorption, and keep harmful bacteria in check, promoting a healthy balance.
This microbial environment, known as the gut microbiome, is complex and constantly adapting based on our diet, lifestyle, and even our stress levels.
When our gut is balanced and diverse, the beneficial bacteria flourish, promoting efficient nutrient absorption. These “good” bacteria help break down complex foods, allowing essential vitamins and minerals to be absorbed through the walls of our intestines and delivered to the rest of the body.
However, when there’s an imbalance in our gut microbiome, known as dysbiosis, problems can arise. Dysbiosis occurs when harmful bacteria outweigh beneficial ones, which can be triggered by factors like processed foods and artificial sweeteners, antibiotic use, chronic stress, or lack of dietary fiber.
When this imbalance occurs, our gut lining may become inflamed, limiting its ability to effectively absorb nutrients. In fact, research has shown that dysbiosis can compromise the absorption of vitamins (like B12 and K), minerals (such as magnesium and calcium), and other essential nutrients. In other words, even if we’re eating a balanced diet, an unhealthy gut may prevent us from fully benefiting from the nutrients in our food.
Dysbiosis can also lead to more pronounced digestive discomforts, such as bloating, gas, and even more significant issues over time, like increased gut permeability (often referred to as “leaky gut”), which allows partially digested food particles to pass into the bloodstream. This can further strain our immune system, impacting overall health and nutrient assimilation.
Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is key to preventing digestive issues and getting the most nutrients from our food for optimal health.
Prebiotic fibers are a special type of soluble fiber that selectively “feed” the beneficial bacteria in the gut. Unlike regular fiber, which primarily aids digestion by adding bulk and regulating bowel movements, prebiotic fiber is a fuel source for specific bacteria, including those that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate. SCFAs are essential because they help keep the gut lining healthy, reduce inflammation, and support a more resilient microbiome—all critical for nutrient absorption.
Adding prebiotic fiber to your meal planning can make a significant impact on the diversity and balance of your gut microbiome. By promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, prebiotics help heal (and prevent) dysbiosis and keep the gut barrier strong, which can enhance the body's ability to absorb vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.
Studies show that people who regularly consume prebiotics experience better mineral absorption (especially calcium, zinc, iron, and magnesium), improved immune function, lower cholesterol levels, and more balanced blood sugars.
Importantly, prebiotics also support the gut-brain connection, which links gut health to cognitive function and mood. By maintaining a balanced microbiome, prebiotic fiber contributes to better mental clarity and stable energy levels.
For those seeking to improve both gut health and nutrient absorption, including prebiotic fiber is a natural approach that is simple to sustain.
How just better.® Prebiotic Fiber Supports Nutrient Absorption
just better.® Prebiotic Fiber is a gentle but powerful addition to your healthy living routine. By supporting gut health, it helps your body absorb nutrients more effectively.
Unlike other fibers, which often cause gas or bloating, just better.® is gentle on the digestive system, providing a smooth pathway for nutrients to make their way through. This means you can enjoy the benefits of improved nutrient absorption without any digestive discomfort or unpleasant grittiness of other brands.
Add just better.® to everything! Sip, cook, and bake with just better.® prebiotic fiber.
Enhancing nutrient absorption does not have to be complicated. Here are some simple tweaks that can make a difference:
Combine Nutrients Wisely: Pair fat-soluble vitamins (like A, D, E, and K) with healthy fats to boost absorption.
Stay Hydrated: Water plays a significant role in nutrient transport within the body. Sip water steadily throughout the day.
Eat Fiber-Rich Foods: Soluble fiber, especially prebiotic fiber, nurtures a balanced gut environment, which is essential for optimal absorption.
Add Prebiotics Daily: A scoop (or stick pack) or two of just better.® Prebiotic Fiber each day goes a long way in creating the ideal gut environment for nutrient absorption.
A Little Fiber for a Big Impact
Taking care of your gut is a proactive way to support nutrient absorption, and just better.® Prebiotic Fiber is a vital tool in this journey. Because it dissolves completely, you can mix it into any food or drink without changing the taste or texture. Plus, its impact on gut health means your body is primed to absorb more of the good stuff—like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants!
Ready to Support Your Gut?
Small changes can yield big results when it comes to nutrient absorption. Start by adding just better.® Prebiotic Fiber to your day, and give your body the gift of better gut health and optimal nutrient absorption.
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