Four Signs You Have an Unhealthy Gut and How to Fix It
You know to eat healthy, exercise, and rest an appropriate amount when it comes to taking care of your body. But have you ever considered how your lifestyle might be affecting your gut health? Further, do you have any idea how it could be? It’s simple: your gut microbiome has connections to other aspects of your health. It’s been linked to everything from digestive function to mental health, your skin and more. In some cases, researchers are trying to pin down whether an unhealthy gut microbiome is one cause of a symptom or health condition or a reaction to one. But one thing is certain: a healthy gut often means a healthier body overall.
Read more: Best Healthy Meal Delivery Services of 2024
The microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms (also called microbes) living in your body, such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. The gut microbiome, specifically, references the microbes in your intestines — notably the large intestine. This helps you metabolize the food you can’t digest, boost your immune function and control inflammation. These microbes also generate metabolites (substances that your body uses to break down food), including vitamins, enzymes and hormones, according to Gail Cresci, a microbiome researcher and registered dietician with Cleveland Clinic’s pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition department.
You should think of your gut microbiome as “little pets living inside your intestinal tract,” Cresci told CNET in 2023. What we eat feeds them, and our internal environment dictates how well they thrive.
As we learn more about the gut microbiome, there are a few basic tips you can use to keep it as healthy as you can.
Read more: 12 Probiotic Foods That Can Improve Your Gut Health
Signs of an unhealthy gut
“If you’re bloated or you have lots of gas, you may have a disrupted composition and function of the gut microbiome,” Cresci said, adding that the only way to know for sure is to have it measured.
Other signs of an unhealthy gut may include vomiting or stomach upset, fatigue, trouble sleeping, food intolerance and other symptoms. Skin irritation or problems may be one particularly visible sign, as some research links skin issues like acne and psoriasis to the gut.
Researchers are also looking into how it impacts reproductive health and hormone levels.
Read more: The ABCs of Apple Cider Vinegar: Benefits, Precautions and Proper Dosage
How to help your gut
It’s important to see a doctor to get to the root cause of your health concern and rule out other conditions. Making changes to your diet or routine that may improve your gut, and your overall health is a good first step.
It’s also important to keep in mind that there’s no exact standard for the perfectly healthy gut microbiome, Cresci said, since everyone’s composition is so different. Bearing that in mind, here are four things you can do to help keep it on the right track.