Maintaining a healthy gut can be compared to playing the teeter-totter at the playground. There are ups and downs. This doesn’t happen because the digestive system has moods. It happens because there are so many factors that affect gut health. The attempt to improve digestive health has proven to be more of a challenge to most.
Table of Contents
Before we go further, there are certain terms you must familiarize yourself with.
- The gut microbiome refers to the body of microbes that live in your intestines. These microbes act as an organ that would affect several aspects of health. This is also sometimes referred to as the gut microbiota.
- Good bacteria are those that assist the human body with several functions like nutrient absorption, immunity, digestion, etc.
- The bad bacteria are those that spread infection and cause digestive health to deteriorate.
- Dysbiosis is the absence of a healthy balance that needs to be maintained in the gut for overall and digestive health.
- The gut lining, also known as the intestinal or stomach lining refers to the porous wall that acts as a gateway between the intestine and the bloodstream. This is the seat of all the action.
A Short Lesson in Biology
This will be short and painless. In the gut, there live healthy bacteria that are both good and harmful. You have a healthy gut when the number of good bacteria outnumbers the bad ones. All is well in the digestive tract and the body is healthy and inflammation free. Because of unhealthy diet choices, lack of sleep, absence of exercise, and/or stress, the balance in the gut is disturbed. The bad bacteria take over and dysbiosis ensues. If left unchecked, the harmful bacteria begin to spread causing diarrhea, gas, bloating, constipation, and stomach aches. If this situation lasts longer, the bad bacteria are free to do a lot more damage. The bacteria release endotoxins which begin to interact with the intestinal lining. The spaces in the gut lining that initially were tight enough to let only water and nutrients through would now widen to let bacteria, toxins, undigested food, and other unpleasant substances into the bloodstream which reaches all the corners of your body. Thus, widespread inflammation begins affecting joint health, skin, hair, bone, digestion, immune system health, and mental health. This condition is known as Leaky Gut Syndrome.
What Can Be Done?
Certain steps can be taken to ensure that leaky gut syndrome does not darken your doorstep. Most of these involve changes that need to be made to your lifestyle. Diet is key. What you eat is what you are. A healthy microbiome needs food that keeps it healthy.
Prebiotic fiber is what the helpful bacteria need to survive and function. Fiber cannot be processed by the human digestive system so it is sent to the intestines where it becomes food for the bacteria. To replenish the numbers and diversity of the good bacteria, you must eat probiotic foods like kimchi, kombucha, tempeh, yogurt, or sauerkraut. A diverse healthy diet that includes whole grains, lean meats, and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables keeps gut health. Certain habits like not getting enough sleep, excessive alcohol intake, smoking, high-stress situations, and a sedentary lifestyle all negatively affect the gut and digestive system. But making these changes and having them affect gut health takes time.
If you are looking for an easier, quicker, and more effective way to correct digestive issues, you need supplements. Leaky gut supplements work by restoring balance to the gut microbiome, replenishing the probiotics in the gut, and providing nutrition to keep the probiotics healthy. You will find several dietary supplements claiming to fulfill these criteria but some of them do not deliver the said results.
Consequently, to help you find a leaky gut supplement that suits you, here is a comparison of two popular leaky gut supplement brands – Gundry MD Total Restore and KARAMD Vital Restore. Let’s check to see if either gut supplement is worth the interest, money, and time you invest into it.
KARAMD Vital Restore Vs Total Restore by Gundry MD
Gundry MD Total Restore is a gut supplement that claims to promote a strong and healthy gut lining. A compromised gut lining is what gives rise to leaky gut syndrome leading to gut inflammation, fatigue, weight issues, digestive issues, and a weakened immune system. Total Restore claims to use natural ingredients that could help with digestive issues and protect the intestinal lining from damage. The dosage is 3 capsules a day with water and the dietary supplement would do the rest.
KARAMD Vital Restore promotes gut repair and aids in the prevention of leaky gut syndrome. Vital Restore claims to help with the cognitive issues and energy deficiency that accompany gut permeability. This leaky gut supplement claims to balance the gut microbiome and promotes gut repair by using clinically tested vegan-friendly ingredients. The recommended dosage is 3 veggie capsules a day with water.
What Can You Expect from these Leaky Gut Supplements?
Gundry MD Total Restore and KARAMD Vital Restore, both come from brands that have several supplements. This means that they are veterans in the business and know what sells – results. Both have their own set of benefits that they claim their respective products can deliver.
| Gundry MD Total Restore | KARAMD Vital Restore |
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Total Restore and Vital Restore use natural ingredients to bring about these benefits. To understand how each leaky gut supplement works, we need to take a closer look and what goes into the making of these supplements.
How Do They Work?
Like most leaky gut supplements, Total Restore and Vital Restore have used natural ingredients that have clinically been proven to support gut health. Natural ingredients whether herbs, botanicals, or minerals have several health benefits, so you would be looking at more than just healthy microbiome balance.
The two supplements share the following ingredients to aid leaky gut repair.
- Berberine
Berberine maintains the mucous lining in the gut wall and can reduce the severity of leaky gut symptoms like gas, bloating, and improper digestion. It can improve nutrient absorption and help with digestive issues. Berberine is believed to influence gut microbiome composition and function.
- Glutamine
This is an amino acid that aids protein synthesis in the body. The amino acid aids to reduce the severity of IBS symptoms. Glutamine is used by the intestines to function and maintain the mucous lining that protects the gut wall. It has been found to reduce leaky gut syndrome symptoms as it reduces intestinal permeability.
- Zinc
This is a trace mineral required by the body for several chemical functions. Zinc is needed for smell and taste and in the right amounts, zinc can promote intestinal health, a healthy gut composition, and regulate bowel movements. A zinc deficiency has been linked to a greater propensity to contract bacterial infections.
Ingredients Exclusive to Total Restore
- Magnesium Beta-Hydroxybutyrate
A ketone body produced during the metabolism of fat cells, beta-hydroxybutyrate is water-soluble and can raise energy levels when the body does not have enough cab intake. They can be used as energy reserves for the body. As far as influence on the gut flora, this has none. - N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine
Derived from the shells of shellfish, n-acetyl d-glucosamine is believed to block lectins from damaging the digestive tract. It can aid joint maintenance and improves the integrity of the gut wall, reducing intestinal permeability and starting the gut healing process. It is usually given to those who suffer from IBS, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and ulcerative colitis. - Grape Seed Oil
Potent in polyphenols and antioxidants, grape seed oil can help reduce oxidative stress on the gut wall and may even inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. It is also good for high blood pressure, kidney function, and bone strength and is also believed to help with brain fog. - Licorice Root
Licorice root is an alternative remedy for digestion issues, heartburn, acidity, and infections. Licorice root can also help with peptic ulcers caused by bacteria. It does have several other health benefits but its application to gut health is rather limited. - Wormwood
Wormwood is an herb native to Europe and is rich in thujone which excites the brain and improves mental function. Traditionally used for pain relief and to stop inflammation, wormwood can help with joint pain. Though for leaky gut syndrome or gut health in general, wormwood does not seem to have much effect. - Cinnamon Powder
Cinnamon is an adaptogen that can create a healthy environment in the stomach and intestines for the gut bacteria. It can also be used to relieve gastrointestinal issues like gas and aches. Cinnamon can help with retarding the growth and multiplication of harmful bacteria and fungi, helping with infections as well. Moreover, cinnamon can positively affect blood sugar levels. - Maitake Mushrooms
A rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, maitake mushrooms still feature in traditional Japanese medicine. Maitake mushrooms may be able to influence the composition of the gut flora and reduce the permeability of the gut walls. It also aids in the healing of lesions and cuts. - Cloves
For gut health, cloves can help with peptic ulcers, dyspepsia, flatulence, gas, and bloating. Cloves can even increase the production and release of enzymes which eases the digestive process and is a great antioxidant as well. It also improves bone health and keeps them strong. - Black Pepper
This spice stimulates the hydrochloric acid in the stomach which influences better digestion and nutrient absorption. Pepper is also attributed with gas-eliminating properties and possibly eases stomach cramps that are a result of bad digestion. It also helps to keep the intestine clear and can also ease constipation. - Grape Fruit
The extract of grapefruit seeds can eliminate H.Pylori – the bacterium that causes inflammation and ulcers in the stomach. It can even eliminate fungal pathogens that live in the digestive tract. Studies proved that grapefruit can help with IBS symptoms, reduce constipation and flatulence, and abdominal discomfort. - VitaBerry®
This proprietary fruit blend is rich in plant chemicals that benefit overall health. It does provide a little fiber content that can act as nutrition for healthy gut bacteria and has also shown promise to support colon health. Used in several supplements meant for hair, skin, and weight management, VitaBerry can help with curbing food cravings. - Marshmallow Root Extract
Marshmallow root extracts can be used to coat and soothe the mucous lining that coats the inside of the gut wall. It can help repair the gut lining and reduce complaints like inflammation, coughs, colds, and skin troubles and support heart health. It can also be used as an alternative remedy for heartburn, stomach ulcers, constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion. Moreover, a daily dose of it can act as a preventive for gut issues. - Zinc L-Carnosine
Zinc L-Carnosine has demonstrated promising potential in improving gastrointestinal health. Specifically, it has been shown to support the maintenance of a healthy gastrointestinal lining, reduce inflammation and discomfort of the digestive system, protect against certain pathogens and help modulate gut microbiota. Studies have further indicated that Zinc L-Carnosine may be beneficial in supporting digestive healing by providing antioxidant activity and stimulating the body’s natural healing processes.
Ingredients Exclusive to Vital Restore
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent and this can aid digestive well-being. It could help with gut inflammation, intestinal permeability, and digestive efficiency and maintain healthy microbial composition in the gut. It is the curcumin content in the turmeric that does this. - Slippery Elm
The bark of this tree is demulcent and can help soothe the lining of the stomach and intestines. The mucoprotective agent cannot be digested by the human system and this aids in the healing of leaky gut syndrome. This also helps with digestive issues and bowel movements.
However, if you take a good look at the list of components that both products use, you may have noticed a major drawback of both products. For a leaky gut supplement to be in any way effective, it would need to restore the balance of healthy and harmful bacteria. That can be done only with probiotics. Neither of these products contains probiotics or prebiotics, for that matter, to nourish the bacteria that are in the gut. Visit here to learn the importance and difference between Prebiotics and Probiotics.
In short, a probiotic supplement would help to introduce healthy beneficial microbes that could aid in the reduction of digestive problems and support gut health in the long run. On this count, both supplements, fall short of Pre and Probiotic content and this is a chief disadvantage for both Total Restore and Vital Restore.
Are There Better Options?
Herbs and botanicals have their advantages but as far as gut health is concerned, a probiotic supplement is crucial. Recall the biology lesson from before? The root cause of Leaky Gut Syndrome is dysbiosis. For setting this balance right, quickly, and effectively, probiotics and prebiotics are needed. Many leaky gut supplements in the market include probiotics and prebiotics in their formulae that can alleviate leaky gut symptoms and prevent leaky gut in the future.
One such gut supplement is Gut+ from YourBiology.
- Gut+ uses quality beneficial bacteria that can help to correct the imbalances in the gut and is mostly targeted to settle a woman’s gut health.
- This gut health supplement introduces 4 live potent strains that deliver 40 billion CFUs – colony-forming units help to reduce gut inflammation and can in the long run:
- Boost healthy gut bacteria,
- Promote a good mood,
- Support immune function,
- Help lose weight,
- Promote healthy digestion,
- Aid better nutrient absorption and
- Eliminate bloat.
- To do this, Gut+ uses Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. Plantarum, L. paracasei, and Bifidobacterium lactis to restore the gut lining and also adds Fructooligosaccharides that provide nutrition for the bacteria once they reach the gut.
- Gut+ goes a step further and includes the use of Maktrek® marine polysaccharide complex which ensures that the payload in each capsule is safely delivered to your intestines and not destroyed by digestive enzymes.
- All you have to do is take 1 capsule during the day and 1 before bed.
Tap now to learn more about Gut+ Supplement!
Another leaky gut supplement is Biotics 8 from Bauer Nutrition.
- This male-centric gut booster works to promote digestive health.
- This gut supplement is designed exclusively for men.
- Like Gut+, the supplement uses a combination of probiotics, prebiotics, vitamins, and digestive enzymes that helps to support immune health, eliminate bloating and gas, and calm the digestive system.
- As an outcome of this, you would see elevations in energy levels, better concentration, and focus, and a lessened tendency to feel fatigued.
- Biotics 8 achieves this by adding 20 billion CFUs of Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus casei, L. rhamnosus, L.plantarum, L. acidophilus, L. paracasei, L. fermentum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, B. breve, and B. longum.
- Added to this are digestive enzymes like protease, lipase, and amylase to ease digestive issues, vitamin D for testosterone, immune function, and mood, and chicory root that acts as prebiotic fiber.
- The recommended dosage is 3 capsules with water first thing in the morning.
Tap now to learn more about Biotics 8 Formula!
If you were to compare Total Restore and Vital Restore with the Gut+ and Biotics 8, you will see a fairly large difference in approach to digestive health. Total Restore and Vital Restore fall short on so many counts, it almost seems unfair.
Where Can You Find These Gut Health Supplements?
The best place to buy any supplement is from the official website. This would mean that you get the original product and if needed, refunds become a simpler matter. Also, most supplement websites offer discounts and savings on bulk purchases.
| Total Restore | Vital Restore | Gut+ | Biotics 8 | |
| Per bottle cost | $69.95 | $34.95 | $59.99 | $59.99 |
| Bulk Purchase Packs | 3 bottles for $191.85 6 bottles for $317.70 | Buy 3 for 10% off + free shipping Buy 4 for 20% off + free shipping | Buy 3 for $179.99 + 2 bottles free | Buy 3 for $179.99 + 2 bottles free |
| Refund Policy | 90-day money-back guarantee | 90-day money-back guarantee | 60-day money-back guarantee | 60-day money-back guarantee |
| Shipping | Free shipping for orders over $49.00 | Shipping is free on the purchase of 2 bottles or more | Free shipping | Fast & free shipping |
| Website | Visit Amazon, Walmart, GNC to Buy. | Visit Amazon, Walmart, GNC to Buy. | Click here to Buy Gut+ from the YourBiology Official Website. | Click here to Buy Biotics 8 from the Bauer Nutrition Official Website |
FAQs
Q1. Are these products habit-forming?
Ans.: All these products have been made using, safe, legal, and natural ingredients. You can stop the use of them whenever you wish. They are not habit-forming.
Q2. Are these products vegan-friendly?
Ans.: Gut+ and Biotics 8 cannot be vegan-free as they constitute live bacterial strains. Total Restore uses crustacean shellfish. KARAMD Vital Restore is the only vegan-friendly product.
Q3. How soon can you expect results?
Ans.: Total Restore reviews mention a window of a month before any change is visible. The same is true for Vital Restore. Gut+ and Biotics 8 users have seen positive changes as early as 2 weeks.
Q4. For how long must the products be used?
Ans.: This is a tricky question as results depend on the degree of damage to the intestinal lining, the state of gut flora, and one’s own health condition. To experience the best results, the use of a probiotic supplement should be approximately 3 months.
A Quick Recap
There is a lot of data to digest and we want to make the process of choosing the best leaky gut supplements for yourself easier. To do that, here is a precise and concise recap of all the information we have to offer.
| Total Restore | Vital Restore | Gut+ | Biotics 8 | |
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| Cons |
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| Daily Dose | 3 capsules per day | 3 capsules per day | 2 capsules per day | 3 capsules per day |
| Probiotic Content | None | None | Yes | Yes |
| Prebiotic Content | Negligible | None | Yes | Yes |
| CFUs | None | None | 40 billion | 20 billion |
| Audience | Healthy adults over the age of 18 looking to improve digestive health | Healthy adults over the age of 18 looking to improve digestive health | Healthy adults (mostly women) over the age of 18 looking to improve digestive health | Healthy men over the age of 18 looking to improve digestive health |
| What’s Unique? | Uses crustacean shellfish as an ingredient that may cause allergic reactions in users. | Is vegan-friendly | Uses Maktrek® to ensure that the probiotics reach the intestines | Formulated for men |
A problem-free gut is what everyone is looking for and for that to be a reality we have to make certain changes to the way we treat ourselves. A poor diet, lack of sleep or exercise, and bad lifestyle choices all contribute to leaky gut syndrome. Along with these changes, we could also add the use of supplements that could speed up the process of healing.
Gundry MD Total Restore and KARAMD Vital Restore are two dietary supplements that claim to heal and protect the digestive system, curb food cravings, aid weight loss, and protect against gas, bloating, and other leaky gut symptoms. Unfortunately, when looked at closely, neither supplement seems to be able to do so. Neither do they have probiotic or prebiotic content which is the quickest way to correct gut irregularities. Total Restore and Vital Restore are not probiotic supplements but are gut health supplements that could maintain gut health, but would find it difficult to correct issues like leaky gut syndrome and its symptoms.
As an alternative to these dietary supplements, we recommend Gut+ from YourBiology and Biotics 8 from Bauer Nutrition. These probiotic and prebiotic-rich products can help to correct and maintain the gut microbiota which is the start of gut health.
- Gut+ includes a fool-proof delivery system that ensures that the probiotics reach the intestines.
- While Biotic 8 is a formula designed particularly for men.
Either way, these two are the better choices if you are looking for leaky gut supplements that actually work and work well.