"Digestive bitters influence gut-organ axes including the gut-brain axis, gut-liver axis, gut-heart axis, and gut-kidney axis by activating bitter taste receptors that are found in the gut, triggering the vagus nerve to stimulate a rush of saliva, stomach acid, bile, and digestive enzymes, improving nutrient absorption and gut motility.

"They also affect the microbiota, promote Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) production, and influence gut barrier integrity.

"Bitters, as research shows, impact metabolism and immunity that help to keep your body's functions in sync.

They also trigger vagus nerve signaling through a direct brain-gut connection, regulating not only digestion, but mood and stress responses.

And that's just for starters. Bitters stimulate hormone signaling that affects appetite, satiety, and glucose and detoxification.

Bitter compounds (like saponins) increase beneficial bacteria that benefit the liver, especially fatty liver.

Bitters boost microbes that strengthen the gut barrier, reduce inflammation, and improve immune responses. Some bitters have antimicrobial properties, balancing gut flora.

"Back in the day, old-time herbalists and wise grannies alike warned that life—and death—begin in the colon. Science is proving them to have been right. There are serious researchers today who will tell you that Alzheimer's disease,and all cancers, and heart disease begin in the gut.

"I take my bitters several times a day without fail. A few drops on the tongue is all it takes. I feel the difference and tell people every day, 'Be good to your colon and you're colon will be good to you,' Sure, it sounds silly. But the good news is, it's true."