Talking about Gut health can be uncomfortable for many people, however understanding just how crucial our digestive system is in the scope of overall health and well-being can be life-changing and, for some, life-saving!

Here are 10 warning signs you may have an unhealthy gut.

1. Frequent discomfort, gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn may indicate an upset stomach due to difficulty in processing food and eliminating waste.
2. You may have gut imbalances and experience chronic fatigue. Studies show that almost half of people with fatigue also have IBS.
3. An unhealthy gut often causes poor sleep. Serotonin affects mood and sleep and is mainly produced in the gut. Harmful bacteria or inflammation in the gut can also affect your sleep.
4. You have an intolerance to certain foods. This could be due to a poor quality of bacteria in your gut. If you struggle to digest certain foods, you may have a food intolerance. Some common symptoms of food intolerance include bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal pain.
5. Excessive sugar consumption leads to harmful gut bacteria and inflammation, which may cause various diseases.
6. You may unintentionally gain or lose weight due to imbalanced gut bacteria. This can affect nutrient absorption, fat storage, and blood sugar regulation.
7. You may have skin irritations such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis which could be related to gut problems.
8. You may experience a connection between gut health and headaches, particularly if you suffer from nausea or vomiting during migraines. Frequent headaches could be related to gastrointestinal disorders.
9. You may develop autoimmune conditions like thyroid issues, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, and Type 1 Diabetes due to certain "bad" gut bacteria.
10. You experience frequent mood changes. Gut issues may result in inflammation in the nervous system, which can lead to anxiety and depression.

       Understanding the importance of proper gut health should be one of the first steps on your journey to good health! Take the time to learn about the best foods and herbal products for overall gut health!   

       You only have one body and one digestive system! Care for it as if your health depends on it- because it does!

       Here's to a gut-healthy 2024!