Your gut, often referred to as your “second brain,” plays a significant role in your overall well-being. It affects not only your digestive system but also your immune system, mood, and more. Maintaining a healthy gut is crucial, and recognizing the signs of deteriorating gut health is the first step in addressing potential issues.
Here are six common signs that your gut health might be in trouble and what you can do about it.
Persistent Digestive Issues
Your gut’s primary job is to digest food and absorb nutrients. If you’re experiencing frequent digestive problems like bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhoea, or heartburn, it could be a sign that your gut isn’t functioning optimally. If you have constant digestive system issues, your physician will perform a colonoscopy procedure to correctly diagnose your condition.
Unexplained Weight Changes
Unexpected weight loss or gain without a clear cause can be linked to gut health. Gut bacteria play a role in regulating your metabolism and how your body stores fat. An unhealthy gut can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to weight fluctuations.
Chronic Fatigue
Feeling constantly fatigued, even after a full night’s sleep, can be a sign of gut health issues. A poorly functioning gut may affect your body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients, leading to a lack of energy.
Skin Problems
Believe it or not, your skin’s condition is often linked to your gut health. Conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis may be exacerbated or even triggered by gut imbalances. Inflammation in the gut can lead to systemic inflammation, affecting your skin.
Weakened Immune System
A significant portion of your immune system is located in your gut. If you find yourself frequently falling ill or having difficulty recovering from illnesses, it might be a sign of a compromised gut. A healthy gut microbiome is vital for a robust immune response. An experienced urologist can help evaluate your gut health by examining your excretory samples.
What You Can Do to Improve Your Gut Health
Recognizing the signs of deteriorating gut health is crucial, but so is taking action to improve it. Here are some steps you can take to promote a healthier gut:
Eat a Diverse Diet
A variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide your gut with a wide range of nutrients. This diversity can help foster a more balanced and thriving gut microbiome.
Prebiotics are Important
Prebiotic foods, such as garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus, act as food for your beneficial gut bacteria. They can encourage the growth of these helpful microbes.
Minimize Antibiotic Use
While antibiotics are sometimes necessary, their overuse can harm the balance of your gut microbiome. If prescribed antibiotics, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions, and consider probiotics to help replenish your gut bacteria afterward.
Manage Stress
Stress can have a significant impact on your gut health. Practices like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress and promote a healthier gut environment.
Consider Probiotic Supplements
If you’re experiencing severe gut issues or have been on antibiotics, you might benefit from probiotic supplements. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine which probiotics are right for you.