2 min read

We know that to remain as healthy as possible, eating the right diet plays a major role. A balanced diet is one rich in vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants and other micronutrients from fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s also filled with our energy supplying macronutrients (protein, carbs, and fats) from lean meats, oily fish, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and pulses.
 
But making sure we eat these micro- and macronutrients is just one part of the story. These nutrients then need to be absorbed by the gut in order to enter our bloodstream and be transported to the brain, organs and other parts of the body that need them.
 
Without efficient nutrient absorption, our body won’t function properly leaving us susceptible to deficiencies and disease.

How Are Nutrients Absorbed?


Most of the nutrients from our food are absorbed whilst partially digested food slowly moves through the small intestine. The inner lining of the small intestine is covered with millions of tiny hair-like structures called villi and even smaller structures called microvilli.

These structures increase the surface area of the small intestine over which nutrients can be absorbed.

Once nutrients have been transported across the membranes of the villi and microvilli, they reach tiny blood vessels called capillaries. The nutrients are then taken by the capillaries to the larger blood vessels for transportation around the body.

But how are nutrients absorbed by the villi and microvilli?

The Role of Transporter Molecules in Nutrient Absorption


Some nutrients, such as certain, simple fatty acids and alcohol simply diffuse passively across the membranes of receptors of the microvilli. Others, particularly water and sugars from fruit juices, travel into the bloodstream by osmosis.

But other nutrients including glucose, amino acids, certain minerals, and more complex fatty acids require energy and active transporter molecules to assist in their absorption.

AstraGin® and Nutrient Absorption


Our pioneering ingredient AstraGin® is a nutraceutical specially developed to help gut health and nutrient absorption.

AstraGin® is patented for use as a method of enhancing nutrient absorption. It’s shown in independent scientific studies that it can help with the absorption of amino acids, peptides, fatty acids, certain vitamins, and phytonutrients.

It does this by upregulating the activity of specific transporter molecules required for nutrient absorption, allowing for an increased amount of nutrients that are absorbed.

AstraGin® also helps to provide a favorable environment for the growth of gut-friendly bacteria which contribute to a healthy microbiome. A thriving microbiome can help to support a healthy gut and consequently a healthy immune system.

Eating a healthy diet does not guarantee you are getting the most from these nutrients. If you suffer from poor gut health, absorption rates can also suffer.

Adding AstraGin® to your daily supplement, however, may increase the chances of effective nutrient absorption. Discover more on how AstraGin® can benefit gut health by visiting our dedicated AstraGin® page complete with links to scientific research.