How Vitamin C Supports Gut Microbiota and Immune Balance in LPCVS

September 2, 2025

LPCVS According to research, Vitamin C can regulate the gut microbiota, notably increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

This effect is significant as it highlights the role of Vitamin C not only in immune function but also in promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall health and immune defence.

Source

T. Otten, A., Bourgonje, A. R., Peters, V., Alizadeh, B. Z., Dijkstra, G., & Harmsen, H. J. M. (2021, August). Vitamin C Supplementation in Healthy Individuals Leads to Shifts of Bacterial Populations in the Gut—A Pilot Study. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/. Retrieved July 15, 2024, from Here

Detoxifying the liver and kidneys can help improve their function and overall health. Various herbs and natural substances are traditionally used for these purposes.

However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or detox regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. Here are some commonly recommended herbs and natural binders for detoxifying the liver and kidneys:

Herbs for Liver Detox

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Benefits: Milk thistle is well-known for its liver-protective effects. It contains silymarin, a compound that helps protect the liver from toxins and supports liver cell regeneration.

Usage: Often taken as a supplement in capsule or liquid extract form.

Dandelion Root

Benefits: Dandelion root is traditionally used to support liver detoxification. It promotes bile production and helps the liver process and flush out toxins.

Usage: Can be consumed as tea, capsules, or tinctures.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Benefits: Turmeric and its active component curcumin have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that support liver health.

Usage: Can be added to food, taken as a supplement, or drunk as tea.

Herbs for Kidney Detox

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Benefits: Nettle is diuretic and helps cleanse the kidneys by promoting increased urine production and excretion of metabolic waste.

Usage: Typically consumed as tea or in capsule form.

Chanca Piedra

Benefits: Known as “the stone breaker,” chanca piedra is used traditionally to help dissolve kidney stones and support kidney health.

Usage: Available as capsules, teas, or liquid extracts.

Cranberry

Benefits: Cranberries can help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by preventing bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract walls, which is beneficial for kidney health.

Usage: Often consumed as juice (unsweetened is best) or in supplement form.

Natural Binders

Activated Charcoal

Benefits: Activated charcoal is known for its toxin-binding properties. It can bind to toxins in the gut, preventing their absorption.

Usage: Taken as capsules or tablets. It's important not to take it within two hours of medications or other supplements, as it can interfere with their absorption.

Chlorella

Benefits: Chlorella is a type of freshwater algae that has strong detoxification properties, particularly in binding heavy metals and supporting their elimination from the body.

Usage: Available in tablet, capsule, or powder form.