Your gut plays a crucial role in your overall health. It doesn’t just affect digestion – it impacts immunity, energy levels, and even how your body absorbs nutrients. A compromised gut can quietly cause a range of health issues. While eating fibre-rich foods, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and including prebiotic and probiotic foods in your diet are all recommended, sometimes these habits may not be enough.
Dr Saurabh Sethi (a gastroenterologist and hepatologist trained at AIIMS, Stanford, and Harvard) recently highlighted the early signs of an unhealthy gut. According to him, recognising these signs early can help you take steps before your gut issues worsen.
5 Warning Signs Of Poor Gut Health
1. Frequent Bloating
Feeling gassy or bloated after meals is more than just uncomfortable – it may indicate an imbalance in your gut bacteria. Dr Sethi explains that frequent bloating can be your gut signalling trouble, and it’s often linked to what and how you eat.
2. Irregular Bowel Movements
Chronic constipation or diarrhoea is another red flag. Irregular bowel habits often suggest that your gut isn’t functioning properly. Dr Sethi says, “Chronic constipation or diarrhoea is often your gut’s way of signalling trouble.”
3. Unexplained Fatigue
Even if you’re sleeping well, feeling constantly tired may point to poor nutrient absorption caused by an unhealthy gut. When your gut can’t absorb essential vitamins and minerals, your energy levels naturally drop, leaving you fatigued throughout the day.
4. Food Intolerances
If certain foods consistently make you feel unwell, it could be your gut microbiome struggling to process them. Common triggers like dairy, gluten or spicy foods may cause bloating, cramps or discomfort when your gut health is compromised.
5. Weakened Immunity
A surprising fact is that around 70 percent of your immune system resides in your gut. Frequent colds, infections, or slow recovery may indicate that your gut needs attention. Dr Sethi emphasises, “Frequent colds or infections can mean your gut needs attention.”
Taking Care of Your Gut
Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for overall well-being. Focus on including fermented foods, high-fibre fruits and vegetables, and staying hydrated. Regular exercise and stress management also support a balanced gut microbiome.
By recognising these early signs, you can take proactive steps to improve your gut health and, in turn, boost your energy, immunity and overall quality of life.
