Is your gut out of balance? Recent research has found that the effect of gut health reaches through every system of the body. So a healthy gut makes a healthy body.
But how can you tell if your gut is in need of some TLC? Let’s look at 7 signs your gut health needs some support.
This is obvious, but digestive symptoms suggest that there is something going on within the gut. However, where people go wrong with this one is that they think it has to be crippling and debilitating to warrant investigation. But even subtle gut symptoms can be a sign of a problem.
You might experience:
If any of these pop up for you, it’s worth further investigation.
The skin is a reflection of what is going on internally. So if you’re struggling with your skin, the answer may be in your gut.
There are several links between your skin and your gut. Your skin requires several key nutrients to be healthy, calm and clear, so any gut issues can reduce the intake of these nutrients. The skin is also vulnerable to inflammation that often stems from the gut.
Finally, the skin and gut are both part of the body’s natural detoxification and elimination system. If one isn’t working optimally, the other has to pick up the slack.
Skin issues that are influenced by gut health include:
Do you struggle with hormonal imbalances? If so, it’s worth looking at your gut health.
Studies have found complex relationships between the gut and sex hormones. One of the most interesting findings is that the gut microbes can influence levels of sex hormones.
The gut also plays a role in the elimination of excess hormones. If gut health is not optimal, it can lead to a build-up of some hormones.
Your imbalances may include:
Have you tested low for any nutrient more than once? It may not be how much you’re consuming, but how much you’re absorbing.
Chronic nutrient deficiencies are often due at least in part to poor absorption. This can lead to a host of other symptoms including low energy, unhealthy skin, poor immunity and pain.
Common nutrient deficiencies caused by poor digestive function include:
Do you pick up every bug that goes around the office? Your gut might be to blame.
A significant percentage of the immune system resides in the gut, so there are many close links between the two. We also know that the microbes in the gut play a crucial role in supporting your immune response.
This may show up as:
Do you wake up fatigued or struggle to make it through the day without a coffee? Your low energy levels could stem back to the gut.
The gut is responsible for absorbing key energy nutrients such as iron, B12 and magnesium. It also produces brain chemicals that support energy levels such as dopamine. Your gut issues could also interfere with deep rest, leaving you even more exhausted!
To learn more about the link between fatigue and gut health, click here
Do you experience any kind of regular pain or discomfort? If so, your gut may be contributing.
Inflammation from any gut issues or symptoms can lead to widespread inflammation. This can exacerbate or even cause aches and pains. It can also trigger a flare in pre-existing pain conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.
The gut also affects the nervous system and the production of brain chemicals. If your gut is not producing the right balance of chemicals or sending danger signals to the brain, it could increase the perception of pain.
Are you experiencing one or more of these symptoms? Concerned that your gut health might be playing a role?
Our naturopath Trish is here to support you. As a qualified health practitioner, Trish can arrange any relevant testing and create a tailored treatment plan to optimise your energy levels and support your gut health.
To book an appointment with Trish at our Bundaberg clinic, call us on (07) 41522372 or book online here.