6 Signs of Gut Inflammation You Shouldn’t Overlook

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Gut health has been a hot topic in the wellness world for quite some time now, with many touting the benefits of a healthy microbiome for overall well-being. But how do you know if your gut is actually in need of some TLC? While digestive distress is a common indicator of gut inflammation, there are other subtle signs to watch out for.

To shed light on these sneaky symptoms of gut inflammation, we turned to Kenneth Brown, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist based in Plano, Texas. According to Dr. Brown, here are six signs that may indicate your gut is inflamed and in need of attention:

1. Digestive issues: Gas and bloating are common signs of gut inflammation, often caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the upper GI tract. This can lead to digestive discomfort, constipation, and diarrhea. In more severe cases, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may be present if you experience bloody stools along with these symptoms.

2. Skin flare-ups: Inflammation in the gut can manifest as skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea. An imbalanced gut microbiome can affect the skin barrier’s integrity, leading to dryness and flakiness.

3. Sugar cravings: A diet high in processed foods and sugar can fuel gut inflammation and trigger more cravings. Giving your microbiome what it needs, like fiber and polyphenols, can help silence the sugar-craving bacteria and restore balance.

4. Undesired weight loss: Unintentional weight loss due to digestive dysfunction can be a red flag for gut inflammation. Conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and SIBO can cause weight loss, as can malabsorption issues.

5. Mood imbalances and brain fog: Gut inflammation can impact mood and behavior through the gut-brain axis, affecting neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Low serotonin levels due to gut issues can contribute to depression, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.

6. Fatigue and insomnia: Gut inflammation can disrupt circadian rhythms and melatonin production, leading to fatigue and sleep disturbances. Boosting melatonin levels through diet and lifestyle changes can help restore balance.

To address gut inflammation, Dr. Brown recommends focusing on a diet rich in fiber, polyphenols, prebiotics, and probiotics, along with regular exercise and stress management. By prioritizing these gut-healthy habits, you can support your microbiome and improve your overall well-being.

In conclusion, paying attention to these subtle signs of gut inflammation can help you take proactive steps to improve your gut health and overall wellness. By listening to your body and addressing any symptoms of inflammation, you can work towards a healthier gut and a happier you.