How Digestive Bitters Transformed My Digestion and How I Feel In My Body
The little drops that made a big difference
For years, I have struggled with gut/digestive issues. I’ve been to multiple gastroenterologists and naturopaths, where I was often dismissed with a bunch of “diagnoses” based on symptoms I didn’t even have, or spending thousands on tests and supplements with no results. I know I’m not alone in this, so if you have experienced something similar, you know how frustrating it can be. Feeling like there is an endless cycle of going nowhere, but you are still left living day-to-day, feeling gross in your body. For me, this is basically 24/7, 365, and somehow, I guess you get used to it. There have been periods where I’ve given up for a bit, but I’m determined to feel better in my body. So I’ve been at it again, the search for something, anything that could make a difference.
One thing I’ve struggled with for years is slow, uncomfortable digestion. That heavy, sluggish feeling after meals. The bloating. The sense that my body was working harder than it needed to break things down.
So I started paying closer attention…again.
How I ate.
How I felt afterward.
What seemed to support me, and what didn’t.
And that’s when I discovered digestive bitters. Maybe some of you have heard of them before. No fancy supplements, no complicated protocol, just a small amount of bitters before a meal.
I wasn’t expecting much after I’d tried so many things, but within a couple of weeks, I noticed something shift.
My body feels lighter. More supported. More in sync with itself.
Meals didn’t sit so heavily.
I wasn’t as bloated.
I actually got the hunger sensation back. And I felt comfortable in my body in a way I hadn’t felt in a long time.
It reminded me that our bodies often respond beautifully to small, supportive rituals, especially the ones we tend to overlook.
If you’re curious about trying digestive bitters yourself, or if you’re exploring ways to gently support your digestion, I’m sharing exactly how I use them, what’s worked for me, and how to build a mindful digestive ritual that helps your body feel nourished, grounded, and more at ease.
My Personal Digestive Bitters Ritual
Here’s the simple, supportive routine that has been helping my digestion and overall comfort in my body:
1. When I Take Bitters
I take a small amount 10–15 minutes before eating.
This gives my body time to respond, supports natural digestive secretions, and helps everything move more smoothly.
2. How Much I Use
I’ve been taking 1 mL (about 30 drops) in a small amount of water. So far, I’ve been finding that the lower dose recommended on the bottle is working well. I’ve only been using it for bigger meals, and the interesting part is that it seems to be working even when I don’t take it for smaller meals in the morning.
3. The Brand I’m Currently Using
St. Francis Canadian Bitters (Tincture)
I’ve only tried the one so far, and since it seems to be working well, I will probably stick with it.
4. A Small Mindful Moment I Pair With It
Before eating, I take my bitters and take 3 slow, deep breaths.
This small pause brings me back into my body and sets the stage for relaxed, easier digestion. This is especially important if you are coming from any task that might be stressful (e.g., going from work to eating lunch).
5. What I Noticed After a Few Weeks
Less bloating
More ease after meals
A sense of feeling lighter in my body
More connection to what foods work for me (i.e., I’ve relearned that gluten and dairy don’t necessarily work with my system)
6. What to Watch For When You Start
Start low and slow, you can always build up
Pay attention to how your body responds
Take note of any pattern: timing, foods, sensations
Don’t mix with digestive supplements at first, give your body space to show you what’s helping
Final Thoughts
Digestive bitters aren’t a magic fix for everything, but they can be a gentle, powerful support tool for reconnecting to your body and helping digestion feel smoother and more natural.
And sometimes that’s all we need — a small, intentional step toward feeling better from the inside out.
With love,
Courtenay—Sacred Wave Wellness
Disclaimer: This post is for educational and informational purposes only and reflects my own personal experience. I’m not a medical professional and cannot diagnose, treat, or offer medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine, especially if you have underlying conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medication.
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