The gut is the body’s second brain. This isn’t just a fun saying to cement how important gut health is. It’s because a lesser-known nervous system called the enteric nervous system lives in our gut and communicates with the brain. A healthy gut is essential to maintaining general health and well-being. To make sure your two brains are in safe hands, check out the possible signs of an unhealthy gut below.
Upset stomach
Stomach disturbances, like gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn, can all be signs of an unhealthy gut. If you find yourself unable to enjoy your favorite foods or the majority of your meals lead to gastrointestinal issues, you may need to consider a gut detox.
A high-sugar diet
A diet high in processed foods and added sugars can decrease the amount of good bacteria in your gut. This imbalance can cause increased sugar cravings, which can damage your gut further. What are good bacteria? Probiotics! Probiotics are live bacteria and yeast that aid in digestion and keep the gut healthy.
Unintentional weight changes
If you’re unintentionally gaining or losing weight, this could be because of an unhealthy gut. An imbalanced gut can impair your body’s ability to absorb nutrients, regulate blood sugar, and store fat.
Sleep disturbances or constant fatigue
An unhealthy gut may contribute to sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or poor sleep, and lead to chronic fatigue. About 95% of the body’s serotonin, a hormone that affects mood and sleep, is produced in the gut. Not only does serotonin affect sleep, but influences both your mood and GI tract, which is a series of hollow organs that includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
Skin irritation
You may not believe us, but skin conditions like eczema may be related to a damaged gut. Inflammation in the gut caused by a poor diet or food allergies may cause increased “leaking” of certain proteins into the body, which can, in turn, irritate the skin and cause conditions such as eczema.
Autoimmune conditions
Around 70% of your immune system is within the gut lining. An unhealthy gut may increase systemic inflammation and alter the proper function of the immune system.
Any imbalances you have in your microbiome can contribute to the development of an autoimmune disease.
Food intolerances
Food intolerances may be caused by poor quality of bacteria in the gut. This can lead to difficulty digesting the trigger foods and unpleasant symptoms, such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea.
If you’re looking for relief from some of the gut health issues listed above, you may want to consider the Pure 21 Wellness Challenge Program. It’s designed to help reset your gut health, make real change in your life, and refocus what your body needs to live a healthier, happier, and longer life.
