Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for overall well-being. Many ignore symptoms of their poor gut condition.
Symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation may signal an imbalance in gut bacteria, also known as dysbiosis. Poor dietary habits, low fibre intake, or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome often cause these issues. Increase the fibre in your diet, add fermented foods like yoghurt or kimchi, and consult a gastroenterologist if needed, suggests National Institutes of Health.
Unexpected weight gain or loss could be signs of poor gut health. An unhealthy gut affects your ability to absorb nutrients, regulate blood sugar and store fat. Try to include foods rich in fibre, prebiotics (non-digestible fibre like resistant starch) and probiotics to nurture and support healthy bacteria and avoid processed foods that promote bad bacteria growth in the gut, states Harvard Health.
The gut produces serotonin, a hormone that helps regulate mood and sleep. Imbalances in the gut microbiome can lead to disrupted serotonin production, causing fatigue and sleep disturbances. Opt for foods rich in tryptophan (like eggs or turkey), avoid caffeine before bed, manage stress with relaxation techniques, says Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Skin conditions like eczema, acne or rosacea can be linked to poor gut health. When the gut lining becomes compromised, it can trigger inflammation that affects the skin. Avoid inflammatory foods like sugar and processed products, states the American Academy of Dermatology.
'Research indicates that food intolerances, like lactose intolerance, may be caused by poor quality of bacteria in the gut', says Healthline.