Increasingly, research demonstrates that the gut plays a pivotal role in numerous aspects of health. From the risk of diabetes to mental well-being, the state of the trillions of microbes residing in our digestive system seems to exert profound influence. Whether beneficial or detrimental, this intricate network of microorganisms, known as the gut microbiome, wields significant control over our overall health. Recognizing this underscores the importance of nurturing our gut health through practices such as consuming fermented foods, prioritizing adequate sleep, and managing stress levels effectively.
However, there are occasions when we may encounter an imbalance in gut bacteria, termed dysbiosis within scientific circles. While this imbalance typically manifests in digestive symptoms, it can also manifest in various other ways.
Keep an eye out for these 10 warning signs that your gut health may be compromised—and consult with your doctor if any of them persist.
1) You're constipated.
It's no surprise that when your gut health is compromised, you may experience a decrease in bowel movement frequency.
Research published in the journal Nutrients in 2022 highlights the direct impact of the microbiome on gut motility. Fortunately, while microbial imbalance can contribute to constipation, restoring balance can help alleviate it. The study's researchers concluded that specific probiotics can positively affect the immune and nervous systems, thereby enhancing intestinal function. Consulting with your healthcare provider can assist you in identifying the appropriate probiotic strain to help regulate bowel movements.
2) You're having diarrhea.
Not all gut imbalances lead to constipation; in fact, quite the opposite may occur more frequently. Diarrhea is a common indicator of dysbiosis. When your gut microbiota population isn't flourishing, its ability to effectively combat invading pathogens, such as harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses that trigger diarrhea, is compromised.
The reassuring news is that studies have demonstrated the potential for treating both chronic and acute diarrhea with appropriate probiotics.
3) You're having heartburn.
When issues arise in your lower gut, they can extend to your upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Heartburn could indicate compromised intestinal health. A 2021 study found that patients referred for anti-reflux surgery exhibited an alarmingly high prevalence of gut dysbiosis, reaching 60.6%! Additionally, other research suggests that individuals with acid reflux often have elevated levels of gram-negative bacteria in the esophagus.
4) You're having skin problems.
Can gut issues manifest on your skin? Absolutely. The "gut-skin axis" describes the relationship between gut and skin health. Recent research published in Microorganisms in 2021 suggests that an imbalanced microbiome is linked to a disrupted immune response, which can lead to various skin conditions including acne, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, dandruff, and even skin cancer.
5) You've developed food sensitivities or intolerances.
Experiencing difficulty tolerating certain foods that you once enjoyed? Your gut health may be the underlying issue. The intricate relationship between food sensitivities and the microbiome is believed to involve the immune response, according to researchers. While some sensitivities or intolerances may persist indefinitely, others, such as lactose intolerance, could potentially be alleviated with probiotic treatments.
6) You're fatigued.
Studies have consistently suggested a potential connection between chronic fatigue conditions and compromised gut health. However, even young and physically fit adults may experience fatigue if their gut health is compromised, as indicated by a 2022 study published in Nutrients. Nonetheless, further research is necessary to precisely elucidate the relationship between fatigue and the microbiome.
7) You're having stomach pain.
Pain is often the telltale sign associated with gut issues. While abdominal pain can stem from various factors, it frequently signals an encroachment of harmful bacteria in the gut. Individuals with functional gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional dyspepsia (FD) commonly report stomach pain—and an imbalanced microbiome may be a contributing factor.
8) You're gaining weight.
While the precise mechanisms linking an imbalanced gut to weight gain remain incompletely understood, it's evident that the bacteria residing in our digestive system play a role in determining our weight. According to a 2020 study published in Preventive Nutrition and Food Science, the microbiome affects nutrient metabolism and energy expenditure, both significant factors in weight management. Conversely, a robust and diverse gut microbiome is linked with weight loss.
9) You're bloated.
While flatulence is a natural occurrence in a healthy gastrointestinal tract, persistent discomfort from bloating is not typical. Excessive bloating might indicate conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If you frequently experience a consistently bloated abdomen, it's advisable to consult your doctor to address your gut health.
10) You're sleeping badly.
Poor sleep and gut health can become entangled in a vicious cycle. Sleep disturbances can adversely affect the microbiome, leading to further sleep deprivation. However, the reverse is also true: individuals who enjoy better sleep tend to exhibit greater diversity in their microbiome. Establishing a healthy sleep hygiene routine may not only improve your quality of sleep but also enhance your gut health.