When was the last time you considered your gut health? How familiar are you with your gut’s microbiome and its role in your overall well-being? An unhealthy gut can weaken your immune system, make detoxifying your body challenging, and trigger joint pain, stomach issues, and even brain fog. This might be news to many and could explain why some don’t feel their best.
Paying attention to your gut health can improve your general well-being, so let’s explore four signs of an unhealthy gut and how to address them.
A frequent upset stomach is one of the most common indicators of gut problems. Though it can stem from various causes, examining your gut health is worthwhile. Stomach troubles such as diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating, and heartburn can be very uncomfortable and frustrating.
Your gut health can also impact your weight, causing unexpected weight gain or loss without changes in your lifestyle. Issues with nutrient absorption can lead to unexpected weight loss or fat storage.
Did you know your skin is also linked to your gut health? People with dry skin or chronic issues like psoriasis may trace these problems to an imbalance of gut bacteria. Achieving a balanced gut can help improve skin conditions.
Proper and uninterrupted sleep is crucial for overall health, yet many struggle with it. If you wake up frequently, find it hard to fall asleep, or feel tired despite enough rest, your gut could be the culprit.
To address an unhealthy gut, change your diet to include a balanced intake that supports gut health. Probiotics and prebiotics are often mentioned as solutions, but they are not the same and may or may not be suitable for everyone.
Probiotics are live organisms found in fermented dairy products like yogurt, as well as kombucha, kefir, and kimchi. They can help with conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhea, and constipation but might not be beneficial for everyone, especially those with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, weakened immune systems, or other chronic diseases.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are the food for those live organisms. They exist in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, helping balance blood sugar, reduce intestinal inflammation, lower disease risk, curb hunger, and improve nutrient absorption. However, some individuals, particularly those with IBS, might find prebiotics worsen their symptoms.
If your goal is to boost your overall health in 2023, prioritizing your gut health is a fantastic start. A healthy gut supports both your mind and body in numerous ways and shouldn’t be ignored.
