๐งพ Dr. Luka Kovaฤโs IBS Support Protocol
“The gut is not just the second brain โ it is the battlefield of your immune system and your peace of mind.”
โ Dr. Luka Kovaฤ
๐ด 1. Coconut Oil
- Why: Anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial; contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are easily digestible.
- How to Use: 1โ2 tbsp daily in cooking or smoothies.
๐ 2. Apple Cider Vinegar
- Why: Supports digestion, balances stomach acid, and has probiotic qualities if raw/unfiltered.
- How to Use: 1 tbsp in warm water before meals. Avoid overuse as it may irritate some guts.
๐ฆ 3. Probiotics
- Why: Restore healthy gut flora, improve bowel regularity, reduce bloating and gas.
- Types to Look For:
- Lactobacillus plantarum (great for IBS)
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Saccharomyces boulardii (yeast-based, good for diarrhea-dominant IBS)
- Note: Start low-dose; symptoms may flare before improving.
๐ฟ 4. Aloe Vera Juice
- Why: Soothing to the intestinal lining, reduces inflammation.
- How to Use: 2โ4 oz per day. Make sure it’s decolorized and purified (no aloin).
๐ฑ 5. Peppermint Oil & Tea
- Why: Relaxant for intestinal smooth muscle; reduces cramps and bloating.
- How to Use:
- Tea: 1โ2 cups daily
- Capsules: Enteric-coated capsules (180โ200 mg) 2โ3x/day before meals
๐ฟ 6. Olive Leaf Extract
- Why: Anti-microbial, supports immune health, may balance gut flora.
- How to Use: Capsules or tincture; follow dosing instructions.
๐ซ 7. Gluten-Free Diet
- Why: Many IBS patients have non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Gluten can trigger inflammation and symptoms.
- Note: Try 4โ6 weeks gluten-free, then reintroduce cautiously.
๐พ 8. Herbal Fibre (e.g., Psyllium Husk, Slippery Elm, Marshmallow Root)
- Why: Helps regulate bowel movements (esp. for constipation). Slippery elm and marshmallow soothe the gut lining.
- Caution: Insoluble fibers (like bran) may worsen symptoms. Focus on soluble fiber.
๐ฟ 9. Wheatgrass
- Why: Rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, enzymes. May aid in detoxification and reduce inflammation.
- How to Use: 1 oz shot daily, increase slowly.
๐ฅฌ 10. Cabbage & Cabbage Juice
- Why: Natural source of Vitamin U (S-methylmethionine), known to help heal gastric ulcers and may soothe gut lining.
- Warning: May cause bloating/gas in some IBS patients โ introduce slowly or ferment it (sauerkraut).
๐งช 11. Vitamin U (S-Methylmethionine)
- Why: “Unknown Vitamin” found in cabbage juice, supports mucosal healing.
- Use: Often in juiced cabbage or supplements labeled โVitamin U.โ
๐ Other Supplements That May Be Added
- L-Glutamine โ Amino acid that supports gut lining integrity
- Magnesium Glycinate โ For constipation relief and calming nerves
- Digestive Enzymes โ Assist in breaking down food
- Vitamin D โ Low levels are correlated with worse IBS
- Zinc Carnosine โ Supports mucosal repair
๐ซ What to Avoid
- Artificial sweeteners (sorbitol, mannitol)
- Excess caffeine
- Alcohol
- Dairy (for lactose intolerant)
- FODMAP-rich foods (onions, garlic, etc.) if you’re sensitive
๐งโโ๏ธ Dr. Lukaโs Lifestyle Tip:
“No food or vitamin can heal what stress destroys. A calm mind is the foundation of a healthy gut.”
Incorporate yoga, meditation, or prayer. Practice slow eating and gratitude.