Is Your Gut Unhealthy? 10 Symptoms to Watch for And How to Heal

Have you ever had a “gut feeling” that something wasn’t quite right—literally? Your gut plays a vital role in how you feel every day, from digestion and energy to mood and immunity. Yet, it’s often overlooked until something goes wrong. 

This article explores the 10 signs of an unhealthy gut and offers practical tips that may support better digestive balance. Whether you're dealing with bloating or feeling unusually fatigued, your gut could be trying to tell you something. 

Let’s get real about what that looks like. 

The 10 Signs of an Unhealthy Gut 

Your gut houses trillions of microbes that influence digestion, immunity, mood, and more. When that balance goes off, y ou may notice the following 

1. You’re Always Bloated and Struggling with Gas 

A little gas is totally normal—it may happen when you swallow air. But if you’re feeling bloated after every meal, or the gas just won’t quit, it could mean your gut is having trouble keeping things balanced or digesting certain foods properly. 

Myth Buster: Bloating isn't always about "eating too much." It can also be due to how your gut processes carbs and fibers. 

2. Bathroom Habits Are... All Over the Place 

Are you going too often? Not going at all. Diarrhea, constipation, or irregular bowel movements could point to poor digestion or a disrupted gut microbiome (the good and bad bugs living in your gut).  

Fun Fact: A healthy gut usually means 2–3 smooth, easy-to-pass bowel movements a day. Graphic? Maybe. But important? Definitely. 

3. You Get Sick More Than Most 

Over 70% of your immune system lives in your gut. If you're catching every cold that goes around, your gut may not be pulling its weight in defending your body. 

Studies suggest that gut microbiota plays a key role in immune balance and response. 

4. You Constantly Crave Sugar 

Certain gut bacteria thrive on sugar—and they can actually influence your cravings to get more of it. When you consume a lot of sugar or sweeteners, it alters the balance of microbes in your gut, sometimes encouraging the growth of less-friendly bacteria that push you to reach for that next sweet treat. 

5. You’re Always Tired (Even After 8 Hours of Sleep) 

Poor nutrient absorption or inflammation in the gut can make you feel drained. Your body’s not getting what it needs from food—even if your diet seems “healthy.” 

Fun Fact: Nearly half of the people with gut issues report feeling unusually tired, even with proper sleep. 

6. Your Skin's Breaking Out More Than Usual 

Acne, eczema, or rosacea flare-ups? These can sometimes reflect internal inflammation. Gut and skin health are surprisingly linked. 

Fun Fact: This connection is called the gut-skin axis—and some research supports the link between gut imbalances and skin issues. 

7. You're Feeling More Anxious or Moody 

The gut is often called the “second brain” because it produces over 90% of your serotonin—that’s your mood-stabilizing chemical. 

Myth Buster! 

Myth : The only reason for my anxiety are my thoughts? 

Reality check: Feeling anxious doesn't always start in the brain. It can start in the belly. 

8. You Have Trouble Sleeping 

A troubled gut can affect the production of melatonin (your sleep-regulating hormone). If you’re wide awake at 3 a.m. thinking about laundry or life’s big questions, your gut could be playing a part. 

Fun Fact: About 400 times more melatonin is produced in your gut than in your brain, according to a study. 

9. Your Breath is… Not So Great 

If your breath stays bad even after brushing, your gut might be behind it. Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)—where stomach acid moves back up—can cause chronic bad breath alongside other tummy troubles. 

Do You Know? 

There’s even a medical term for gut-related bad breath—halitosis linked to “oral-gut axis” issues. (Yes, your mouth and gut are on speaking terms!) 

10. You React to Foods You Used to Love 

Remember when cheese was your best friend and bread your soulmate? If they now leave you bloated or uncomfortable, your gut might be out of sync. Research suggests that gut imbalances—possibly from repeated infections early in life—may increase food sensitivities over time, even in people without strong genetic predispositions. 

Myth Buster! 

Myth: Are food sensitivities always caused by food allergies? 

Truth: Food sensitivities don’t always mean an allergy. They can be a sign that your gut lining is irritated or your bacterial balance is off. 

What Can You Do? 5 Gut-Friendly Habits to Start Today 

You don’t need a complete lifestyle overhaul. Small changes add up! 

1. Eat More Fiber 

Fiber feeds your good gut bacteria. Think: leafy greens, oats, chia seeds, lentils. (Yes, your grandma was right about veggies). A review study shows that high-fiber diets may support gut microbial diversity and function. 

2. Add a Probiotic 

Research suggests probiotics may help maintain healthy digestion by supporting microbial diversity. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition. 

Also Read: How Colostrum Supports and Balances the Gut Microbiome

3. Cut the Sugar and Processed Food (Just a Bit) 

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(Accessed May 27, 2025) 

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