Gut Health and Dysbiosis.
- Aug 10, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 7, 2024
There are over 50 trillion microorganisms in your body containing between 500-10,000 different species, most live within your gut and make up your gut microbiome. It is the balance of these various types of gut microorganisms that influences your health and well-being
Various things can disrupt this balance and create what is known as gut dysbiosis. This includes:
Eating too many processed foods, or too much sugar and artificial sweetener.
Some medications, antibiotics or antacids when used in excess.
A lack of fiber or variety in your overall diet.
Some environmental toxins such as particular herbicides and pesticides.
Not getting enough or poor quality sleep.
Too much stress or anxiety
One of the most important things that the gut microbiome does is keep the immune system healthy and in balance. One of the ways it does this is by producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) from fiber and butyrate. The gut microbiome also plays a role in the following:
Overall health.
Good digestion and absorption of vitamins and minerals.
Production of essential nutrients such as vitamin K.
Managing our appetite and body weight.
Helping produce & balance hormones, like serotonin, thyroid hormones, and melatonin.
Supporting our cognitive health, mood, and motivation.
Keeping inflammation low.
Gut dysbiosis has been linked to many and varying health conditions. These include: autoimmunity, allergies and asthma, autism, brain disorders and cognitive decline, cancer, celiac disease, diabetes, eczema, fatigue and joint pain, heart issues, infertility, learning issues, mood disorders, and obesity just to name a few.
Signs and symptoms of gut dysbiosis or imbalance include:
Digestive issues, like constipation and diarrhea, bloating, excess gas, frequent burping, heartburn, acid reflux, pain, and nausea.
Low energy levels and fatigue.
Issues with concentration or memory.
Frequent colds, flu’s or other infections.
Anxiety or depression.
Skin inflammation issues including acne, mild rashes, and dermatitis.
Food sensitivities.
Allergies, stuffy nose, and post-nasal drip.
Muscular pain and/or achy joints.
Hippocrates said ‘All disease begins in the gut’ and I have found this is the case in my clinic. So ensuring our gut biome is in balance protects our overall health and wellbeing. When our gut is functioning at its best it is a powerhouse for improving our vitality, immune system, hormonal balance, cognitive health and so much more.
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