If you’re looking to improve gut health, incorporating polyphenol-rich foods like Haskapa into your diet can be a delicious and effective strategy. It’s one of my favourite smoothie additions right now; simple, vibrant and packed with benefits. The key polyphenols found in haskap berries are not only great for your gut but can support your immune system, reduce fatigue, and promote overall well-being.
What Are Polyphenols and Why Do They Matter for Gut Health?
Polyphenols are natural compounds found in plants that act as antioxidants. But their magic goes beyond free-radical fighting. These colourful compounds also play a significant role in gut health by:
- Feeding beneficial gut bacteria – Polyphenols act as prebiotics, helping to nourish the friendly bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium that live in your gut.
Read the study on polyphenols and gut bacteria (ScienceDirect, 2020) - Reducing harmful bacteria – They can help inhibit the growth of less desirable microbes, keeping the ecosystem in balance.
See the study on polyphenols reducing harmful bacteria (PubMed, 2015) - Supporting gut barrier integrity – Polyphenols help stimulate the production of short-chain fatty acids (like butyrate), which strengthen the gut lining and reduce inflammation.
Check out this article on gut permeability and polyphenols (PMC, 2022)
Haskapa: A Polyphenol Powerhouse for Gut Health
Haskapa is made from freeze-dried haskap berries (Lonicera caerulea), which are incredibly rich in anthocyanins, a type of polyphenol responsible for their deep purple colour. In fact, haskap berries contain four times the anthocyanins of blueberries, making them one of the most concentrated natural sources out there.
They’re also a great source of vitamin C, which contributes to a healthy immune system and helps reduce tiredness and fatigue, ideal if you’re looking for more energy and resilience day to day.
Animal studies have shown haskap berry extracts to be anti-inflammatory and protective for the gut, with one study highlighting its ability to reduce colitis symptoms.
Read more in this recent research (PMC, 2024)
Why I Love Food-First Superfoods for Gut Health
I love using easy to add superfood powders like this to upgrade recipes I already make, like my morning smoothie, without overcomplicating things. It’s a food-first approach that makes me feel like I’m truly nourishing my body, without needing to take another supplement. Plus, let’s be honest, it’s far more delicious!
Gut-Friendly Berry Smoothie Recipe
This is my current go-to smoothie recipe. It’s packed with polyphenols for gut health, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- 2 scoops vanilla Nuzest Clean Lean Protein (complete with all 9 essential amino acids + easy on the gut)
- 1 tsp Haskapa organic powder
- 1 tbsp chia and flax seeds
- A handful of blueberries and blackberries
- Favourite milk to blend
- Optional: a handful of spinach or kale, if I’ve got some in the fridge
Whizz until smooth and enjoy. This blend supports my digestion, keeps me satisfied, and helps my gut stay happy on the move.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating colourful, polyphenol-rich foods like Haskapa into your daily routine is a beautiful way to support your gut health, naturally. Whether you’re blending up a smoothie, stirring into porridge, or getting creative with baking, this little purple powder packs a mighty nutritional punch.
Polyphenols like those in Haskapa help improve your gut’s microbiome by promoting good bacteria, reducing harmful bacteria, and supporting gut lining integrity. It’s a natural and delicious way to boost digestion, immunity, and overall vitality. If you try it, I’d love to hear how you get on – tag me in your creations or drop me a message!
Ready to give your gut some love? If you’d like personalised guidance on how to nourish your gut and feel your best, why not book a free discovery call with me? We can chat about your health goals and how simple tweaks, like adding polyphenol-rich foods, can make a real difference.