The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to its significant impact on overall well-being. Let's explore the subtle and not-so-subtle signs that may indicate poor gut health.

The gut is often referred to as the "second brain" due to its significant impact on overall well-being. When your gut health is compromised, it can manifest in various ways that extend beyond digestive discomfort. In this blog post, we'll explore the subtle and not-so-subtle signs that may indicate poor gut health. Recognising these signs is crucial for taking proactive steps towards restoring balance in your digestive system and nurturing your gut microbiome.

Common Signs of Poor Gut Health:

Digestive discomfort

Digestive discomfort can include bloating, gas, constipation, which could be a sign that there is an imbalance in your gut microbiome. These body cues are often indicative of challenges within the digestive process. Paying attention to these signals is crucial as they can be early indicators of potential disruptions in your gut. If you find yourself grappling with these issues regularly, it's worth considering proactive measures such as lifestyle adjustments, dietary changes, or seeking guidance from a healthcare professional to restore balance to your gut health. Addressing these concerns early on is key to fostering a healthy and harmonious digestive system.

Skin Troubles

Your skin often serves as a mirror reflecting the state of your gut. If you observe signs of irritation such as redness, swelling, or general discomfort, it could be a sign of an underlying issue in your gut. The connection between your skin and gut is more than skin-deep, and these external manifestations may be indicative of an internal imbalance.

Low energy levels

A flourishing gut is not just vital for digestion; it plays a key role in nutrient absorption and energy production. If you find yourself with low energy levels, even after sufficient sleep, and proper nutrition, it could be that the root cause could lie the gut impacting the absorption of essential nutrients. The intricate connection between a healthy gut and overall vitality underscores the importance of maintaining digestive well-being to ensure optimal nutrient utilisation and sustained energy levels. Addressing potential gut health issues might be the key to unlocking newfound energy and vitality in your daily life.

Food Intolerance

If you've recently developed unexpected intolerances to foods that were once easily digestible, it could be a signal of disruptions in your gut lining or microbiome. Our bodies are adept at adapting to dietary changes, and sudden sensitivities may suggest an imbalance in the delicate ecosystem of your gut.

Craving sugary foods

Experiencing food cravings, particularly for sugar, may indicate an imbalance in your gut microbiome. Consuming excessive sugar can foster the proliferation of "bad" bacteria in the gut. Recognising the connection between sugar intake and gut health is essential for making informed dietary choices and promoting overall well-being.

Immune defences are down

A weakened immune system often shows through gut-related signs. Persistent digestive issues like bloating, irregular bowel patterns, or increased susceptibility to pathogens may indicate compromised immunity. The gut, a central hub for immune activity, can signal immune distress through imbalances in its microbiome. Recognising these gut-related cues is key to promoting proactive steps to restore balance and strengthen the body's defence mechanisms.

The best foods to nurture your gut:

Fostering good gut health involves incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods that promote a balanced and diverse microbiome. Here's a list of foods that can nurture your gut microbiome in a positive way:

1. Probiotic-Rich Foods:

Yoghurt
Kefir
Sauerkraut
Kimchi
Kombucha
Super Greens + Reds (contains our award-winning probiotic BC30® (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6068)
Thriving Family Proteins (contains our award-winning probiotic BC30® (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6068)

2. Prebiotic rich-Foods:

Garlic
Onions
Leeks
Asparagus
Jerusalem artichokes
Super Tummy (contains 5 different prebiotic fibres - the more the merrier - which can feed the good gut bacteria, creating a flourishing gut microbiome)
Super Greens + Reds (contains 3 prebiotic fibres)

Left Recipe: Morning Multi Smoothie | Right Recipe: Immunity Rainbow Salad

3. Fibre-Rich Foods:

Whole grains
Legumes
Fruits
Vegetables

4. Amino-Acid Rich Foods

Broth: Contains collagen, key amino acids and minerals that support gut wellbeing. Luckily for that we have an entire range with 15 different broth varieties where you can choose from: beef, chicken and even veggie! We’ve GUT you covered.

Collagen: Beauty, Body or Build contain the building blocks (collagen amino acids) that our body needs to support the gut from the inside out

5. Colourful fruits and vegetables containing antioxidants (polyphenols):

Berries
Spinach
Kale
Bell peppers contain polyphenols with potential benefits for gut health.
Green Tea or Matcha
Acai Berry Blend, which contains a variety of antioxidants coming from wholefoods

6. Filtered Water:

As you embark on your journey toward holistic health, don't underestimate the significance of staying well-hydrated. Prioritise the consumption of filtered water to support your digestive processes and keep your body operating at its best!

Plus 8 more Lifestyle changes for gut health

Embarking on a journey toward better gut health involves more than just tweaking your diet; it requires holistic lifestyle changes that resonate with your body's intricate ecosystem. We'll explore adjustments you can make to nurture your gut and optimise your digestive wellness.

Mindful Eating: The practice of being fully present, consciously paying attention to each aspect of the eating experience, from the taste and texture of food to the thoughts and emotions associated with the act of eating. This practice not only fosters a healthier relationship with food but also aids in proper digestion.
Prioritise Sleep: Quality sleep is a cornerstone of overall well-being, including digestive health. Establishing a consistent sleep routine supports the body's natural repair and renewal processes, contributing to a balanced gut environment.
Manage Stress: Stress can wreak havoc on your digestive system. Incorporate stress-management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga to create a more harmonious balance between mind and gut connection.
Regular Exercise: Physical activity not only promotes overall health but also supports a diverse and robust gut microbiome. Aim for a mix of aerobic exercises and strength training to keep your digestive system in top form.
Stay Hydrated: Adequate water intake is fundamental to optimal digestion. Make a conscious effort to drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day, ensuring your body has the hydration it needs for smooth digestive processes.
Include Fermented Foods: Incorporate a variety of fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi into your diet. These foods are rich in probiotics, fostering a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut.
Limit Processed Foods and Sugar: Processed foods and excess sugar can disrupt the delicate balance of your gut microbiome. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods and minimise added sugars to create an environment that supports gut health.
Pause & Listen to Your Body: Listening to your body is a skill that involves tuning into its subtle cues and signals, acknowledging both its physical and emotional needs. It begins with cultivating a heightened awareness of sensations like hunger, fullness, and satisfaction during meals. Pay attention to how different foods make you feel and any reactions your body might have. Regular self-check-ins help identify patterns and provide insights into your body's unique responses to various activities, foods, and stressors. Practising mindfulness, whether through activities like meditation or simply being present in the moment, can further enhance your ability to listen to and honour what your body is telling you. The key is to foster a compassionate and intuitive connection with your body, recognising that it communicates its needs and preferences in ways that deserve attention and respect.