We know the gut is the second brain, and there are a number of ways an unhealthy gut can manifest itself. Here are 5 causes or signs of an unhealthy gut:
1. Upset Stomach & Constipation
Often times things like gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn are signs of an unhealthy gut or unbalanced diet. Having a balanced gut will give you less difficulty processing food and eliminating waste.
2. Skin Irritation
Skin conditions such as acne or eczema may be related to a damaged gut. In fact, inflammation in your gut caused by a poor diet or food allergies can cause “leaking” of certain proteins out into the body. In turn, this can irritate the skin and cause conditions such as eczema or acne.
3. High Sugar Diets
A healthy amount of sugar is normal, and if you're not sure what the maximum amount of sugar you should be having daily, here it is;
Most men shouldn't have more than 9 teaspoons or (36 grams or 150 calories) of sugar per day. For us women, the number is much lower: 6 teaspoons (25 grams or 100 calories) per day.
So, when consuming a high amount of processed foods and added sugars you decrease the amount of good bacteria in your gut. This imbalance will cause increased sugar cravings, which will only damage your gut more. Also, high amounts of refined sugars such as, high-fructose corn syrup, are linked to increased inflammation in the body. Inflammation in the body is a precursor to numerous diseases, and often times, cancers. High sugar levels also cause skin irritation and inflammation of the skin. Going back to the point made above, a high sugar diet with cause acne.
4. Fluctuating Weight
Sometimes, gaining or losing weight without making changes to your diet or exercise habits is a sign of an unhealthy gut. Having an imbalanced gut can impair your body’s ability to absorb nutrients, regulate blood sugar, and store fat.
5. Insomnia
Since our gut produces the majority of serotonin (the chemical that affects mood & sleep). An imbalanced gut will prevent the production of these chemicals, and change your ability to get solid rest. This can often lead to body fatigue and insomnia.
If you're struggling with any of these side effects, and you think you may have a gut imbalance. I recommend adding a few vitamins to your daily routine & if that doesn't help, go see your gastroenterologist to do a fecal test.