Do you experience frequent stomach aches, abnormal bowel movements, or other gut-related health issues? There are a number of health conditions that can affect the gut, which is why it is important to be able to identify the signs of an unhealthy gut. At Washington Health and Drug, we work hard to help all of our patients optimize their personal health and wellbeing. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful guide regarding the signs of an unhealthy gut:
1. Frequent Stomach Aches
One of the most evident signs of an unhealthy gut can be experiencing frequent stomach aches. If you regularly find yourself feeling uncomfortable after meals due to bloating or cramping, it’s possible that this is an indication that your gut health might be suffering. By paying close attention to when these stomach aches occur and consulting a healthcare professional, you can pinpoint the cause of your frequent stomach aches and take steps to address the issue.
2. Unintentional Weight Loss or Gain
If you experience unexpected fluctuations in weight, whether you lose or gain weight, it may be a sign of gut health issues. If your gut bacteria are not properly balanced, your body can struggle to absorb nutrients and metabolize food, leading to a variety of weight-related issues. If you notice unexpected weight changes, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider to rule out potential concerns.
3. Abnormal Bowel Movements
Another indicator of potential gut issues is irregular bowel movements. Abnormalities in the frequency, consistency, and color of stools can be signs of an unhealthy gut. For example, constipation can indicate a slow digestive system, while diarrhea is often linked to inflammation. If you are experiencing abnormal bowel movements, try keeping track of them in a journal and share updates regularly with your healthcare provider.
4. Extreme Food Cravings
Do you experience frequent and intense food cravings? This could indicate an imbalanced gut! Gut bacteria help the brain to know when we should feel hungry or not, but when these bacteria are imbalanced, our bodies can get confused. Incorporating fiber-rich foods or taking a fiber supplement, taking probiotic supplements, and making an effort to eat healthy foods can help to improve gut health, but make sure to talk to a healthcare professional if you continue to experience intense unexplained food cravings.
5. Difficulty Sleeping
Did you know that difficulty sleeping can be one of the signs of an unhealthy gut? The gut and the brain are connected in many ways, leading to potential disruption of sleep by an unhealthy gut. Additionally, if you are uncomfortable with issues like stomachaches while trying to sleep, that can make it more difficult to fall and stay asleep, impacting your overall energy levels. If you think that your gut health might be affecting your sleep, reach out to a healthcare provider today!
Your gut health is an important part of your overall wellbeing, which is why it is important to be able to recognize the signs of an unhealthy gut. If you notice these signs in yourself, make sure to reach out to a healthcare professional to get the help you need. And if you’re looking for a partner in your health journey, look no further than Washington Health and Drug! We offer a wide selection of products that can help improve your gut health, such as Berberine and Thorne’s Metabolic Health supplement. Additionally, our committed team is here to answer any questions you might have, so reach out to us today and get on track for better gut health.
