From the Guidelines
I would not recommend Gundry's Total Restore supplement as there is insufficient scientific evidence supporting its claimed benefits. Total Restore contains ingredients like L-glutamine, N-acetyl D-glucosamine, magnesium, and various plant extracts that Dr. Steven Gundry claims help repair the gut lining, reduce leaky gut syndrome, and improve digestive health. However, while some individual ingredients have limited research behind them, the specific formulation lacks rigorous clinical trials demonstrating effectiveness, as seen in studies on polyphenols and their impact on gut health 1.
The benefits of polyphenols on gut health are well-documented, with studies showing that they can alter the gut microbiota, encourage the growth of healthy microorganisms, and even influence the Firmicutes to Bacteroides ratio, which has been linked to body weight 1. However, these benefits can be achieved through a balanced diet rich in fruits, whole grains, vegetables, legumes, seeds, and nuts, which are naturally high in polyphenols.
In contrast, the supplement is also relatively expensive (approximately $70-80 per month) compared to more established digestive health options. If you're experiencing digestive issues, better approaches include:
- Consulting with a healthcare provider
- Focusing on a balanced diet rich in fiber and fermented foods
- Staying hydrated
- Managing stress
- Considering evidence-based probiotics if recommended by your doctor, as seen in studies on the Mediterranean diet and its effects on gut microbiota and NAFLD 1.
Many of the claimed benefits of Total Restore could potentially be achieved through lifestyle modifications and targeted interventions based on your specific health needs rather than this all-in-one supplement. A balanced diet and lifestyle changes are a more effective and evidence-based approach to improving digestive health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
From the Research
Effects of Gundry's Total Restore (Polyphenol Supplement) Dietary Supplement
The effects of Gundry's Total Restore, a polyphenol supplement, are not directly addressed in the provided studies. However, the studies do discuss the effects of various dietary supplements and their impact on gut health and overall well-being.
Gut Health and Polyphenols
- The study 2 found that the combination of ω-3 PUFAs and proanthocyanidins (a type of polyphenol) maintained the health-promoting bacteria in the gut at levels similar to those of the control group.
- The study 3 found that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation resulted in significant increases in certain beneficial bacteria, such as Coprococcus spp. and Bacteroides spp.
- The study 4 discussed the potential benefits of lactic acid bacteria as probiotics, including their ability to produce antimicrobial substances and compete with pathogenic bacteria for cell surface and mucin binding sites.
Safety and Regulation of Dietary Supplements
- The study 5 noted that many dietary supplements, including those for weight loss, have uncertain efficacy and safety profiles.
- The study 6 highlighted the lack of stringent regulations for dietary supplements, which can lead to adverse events and harm to consumers. The study found that between 2004 and 2021, there were 79,071 reported adverse events related to dietary supplement use, including cases of organ failure, hepatic, renal, and cardiac toxicity, and death.
Key Findings
- The combination of ω-3 PUFAs and proanthocyanidins may have beneficial effects on gut health 2.
- Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation may alter the gut microbiome composition and have prebiotic effects 3.
- Lactic acid bacteria may have potential benefits as probiotics, including antimicrobial and competitive effects against pathogenic bacteria 4.
- Dietary supplements, including those for weight loss, may have uncertain efficacy and safety profiles 5.
- The lack of stringent regulations for dietary supplements can lead to adverse events and harm to consumers 6.