When we think of poor gut health, things like bloating, irregular bowel movements and abdominal pain may come to mind as obvious symptoms. But what are some of the lesser-known symptoms of an unhealthy gut? Gastroenterologist Will Bulsiewicz, M.D., just revealed some signs that you may be overlooking.
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“Classically, we think of a damaged gut microbiome, termed dysbiosis, as manifesting with gut symptoms,” the doctor andcookbook authorwrote in arecent Instagram video. “Bloating would be the classic one, but of course there are many.”
Want to know what these symptoms are? Read on to find out—as well as the science behind the gut’s connection to them.
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1. You Experience Frequent Headaches
If you’re unsure of what’s causing your headaches, it could be your gut health. Bulsiewicz linked to a 2020 study published inThe Journal of Headache and Painthat migraines can be associated with gastrointestinal disorders (like IBS) and gut inflammation. The study also shows that headaches or migraines can be improved through “dietary approaches with beneficial effects on gut microbiota” like including enough fiber in your eating pattern. High-fiberfruitsandvegetablesare great places to start.
2. You Constantly Feel Tired
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3. You Have Eczema
4. You Have Increased Stress or Anxiety
With 95% of our body’s serotonin being produced in our gut, according to an article inFrontiers in Psychiatry,it’s no wonder that stress levels and gut health are connected. Bulsiewicz referenced a 2019 study from theJournal of Neuroscience Researchthat explored the relationship between gut inflammation and anxiety and depression risk, and the study showed the gut microbiome playing a huge role in stress response. AtEatingWell, we have been covering this connection for quite some time, and to help with this, we curated a list of thetop anti-inflammatory foods for relieving anxietyfor you to try adding to your diet.
The Bottom Line
“So when you are dealing with migraines, eczema, anxiety and fatigue, be sure to recognize the common connection to the gut and incorporate that into your diet and lifestyle strategy,” Bulsiewicz concluded. Talk to your health care provider for a personalized plan if you think these symptoms are related to an unhealthy gut. Addinggut-healthy foodsinto your eating pattern can help relieve these symptoms, so check out this30-day anti-inflammatory, gut-healthy dinner plan.
Up next:I’m a Food Writer & This Easy, High-Protein & High-Fiber Breakfast is My Morning Staple
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