Is Your Gut Trying to Tell You Something? 6 Signs It Needs More Support
/The gut is often referred to as the foundation of health, and for good reason. Whether you are facing specific digestive concerns or simply aiming to feel your best, supporting gut health is an important first step. That is because nearly 70% of the immune system lives in the gut, and it also plays a key role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and even mental health.
When your gut is thriving, you are more likely to feel energized and balanced. But when is it not? Your body will likely send signals that it needs a little extra care.
Here are six signs your gut may need some TLC and what to do about it:
1. Digestive Issues
If you are experiencing bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort, your gut may be struggling. These symptoms can signal impaired digestion, an imbalance in gut flora, and even a weakened or permeable gut lining.
What to do:
Focus on easily digestible, nourishing foods like cooked meats, steamed vegetables, and blended soups (what I like to call “pre-digested” meals). These are gentler on the digestive system, giving your gut a chance to rest and repair.
Sipping bone broth is another favorite. It is rich in amino acids and supports a strong gut lining. You may also benefit from incorporating digestive enzymes and fermented foods, such as sauerkraut or kimchi, into your meals. This helps break down food and introduces beneficial bacteria to your system.
2. Nutrient Deficiencies
Eating a healthy diet, but still feeling low energy or showing signs of deficiencies? The issue might be absorption. When the gut lining is damaged, often referred to as “leaky gut”, your body can’t efficiently absorb nutrients, even from the best foods.
What to do:
Support and repair the gut lining with healing foods, such as bone broth and fermented vegetables. A healthcare provider can also help identify specific nutrient gaps and guide targeted support.
3. Frequent Cravings
Constantly reaching for sugar, bread, or processed snacks? It might not just be willpower; it could be your gut bacteria. Pathogenic microbes can influence cravings to fuel their growth.
What to do:
Balance your microbiome by reducing your intake of sugar and processed foods, and increasing your consumption of fiber-rich options, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. These feed the good bacteria and help crowd out the bad.
4. Weakened Immune System
If you often fall ill or struggle to recover quickly, your immune system may be compromised, and your gut could be to blame. A healthy gut is essential for immune resilience.
What to do:
Incorporate probiotics and prebiotic fiber into your diet. While probiotic supplements are helpful, they’re only effective if you’re also feeding your gut flora with fiber. Hydration and reducing your intake of processed foods can also give your immune system a much-needed boost.
5. Food Sensitivities
Experiencing unexplained sensitivities or reactions to foods you used to tolerate? A damaged gut lining can allow undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation and immune responses.
What to do:
Focus on repairing the gut lining. Bone broth is my go-to! It is full of collagen and amino acids that help soothe inflammation and strengthen the gut wall. Try sipping it as is or using it in soups, stews, or when cooking grains like rice.
6. Skin Issues
Conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea often trace back to the gut. That’s because your skin and gut microbiomes are closely connected, and an imbalanced gut can lead to skin flare-ups.
What to do:
Think of your gut as the mother microbiome: it influences all others, including the skin. Heal it with probiotics and gut-supportive foods, and choose gentle skincare products that won’t disrupt your skin’s delicate ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Your gut health influences nearly every system in your body. If you are noticing signs like digestive discomfort, food cravings, or skin issues, it may be time to prioritize gut healing. With the right foods, supplements, and lifestyle choices, you can nourish your gut and pave the way to vibrant, long-term health.
Your body is always speaking to you, don’t forget to listen to your gut.
Need more assistance? Check out my FREE 3-Day Gut Reset to help get everything back on track. If you require further help, feel free to contact me directly so we can work together.