What is Gut Dysbiosis?
Gut dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the composition of the microorganisms living in our gut. While many of these bacteria and microbes coexist with us in a mutually beneficial relationship, an imbalance can lead to problems.
Our digestive tract is home to trillions of microbes, a vast community of microorganisms that play a significant role in maintaining various bodily functions. These microbes are constantly interacting with our body, often influencing cravings and behaviors as a way to ensure their own survival.
Bacteria in our digestive tract can influence our cravings for certain foods – especially sweets. They can also influence our moods. Serotonin and dopamine, which are key neurotransmitters linked to our mood are produced in higher amounts in our digestive system than by our brain. Low levels of these neurotransmitters can affect both mental and physical health.
Additionally, the health of our gut has a strong connection to our immune system. A balanced gut microbiome supports immune function and helps regulate stress responses.
What Causes Gut Dysbiosis?
Overconsumption of sugar, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and artificial additives, along with overeating in general, contributes significantly to the rise of dysbiosis.
Another contributing factor is cold food and drinks. Healthy gut bacteria thrive in a warm environment. When we consume cold food and drinks, this allows unhealth bacteria to thrive which throws our digestive system into inbalance. Cold food and drinks also alters our stomach Ph level and slows peristalsis.
Medications such as Ibuprofen and Acetominofen can also disrupt the gut’s lining, contributing to issues like leaky gut syndrome, where undigested food particles pass through the gut lining and trigger immune responses. This, in turn, can contribute to autoimmune conditions and other health problems.
Symptoms of Dysbiosis
Gut dysbiosis can manifest in several ways, many of which may seem unrelated to digestion at first. Symptoms might include a persistent feverish feeling, especially in the evening, a sensation often experienced by those with fibromyalgia. A telltale sign of gut imbalance is a dry mouth with only a mild thirst, combined with morning fatigue that makes it hard to get moving.
Dysbiosis can also interfere with cellular processes, leading to symptoms such as:
- Chronic fatigue, particularly worse in the morning
- A feeling of heaviness or pain in the limbs
- Swelling in the joints and legs
- Excessive mucus production
- Brain fog and poor concentration
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort
- Skin issues, such as rashes or pimples in the groin or underarms
Many people with gut dysbiosis also experience irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Addressing this imbalance by supporting healthy digestion and restoring the microbial balance is essential to alleviating these symptoms.
How to Improve Digestive Health
In the effort to restore a healthy gut environment, several natural strategies can be helpful. The use of plant-based remedies that reduce excess phlegm, promote proper digestion, and reduce gut inflammation is often beneficial.
One of the simplest ways to support digestion is by avoiding cold (also raw or uncooked) food and drinks. Also thoroughly chewing food is crucial for proper digestion. Using a variety of herbs and spices when cooking can also be helpful. Spices such as ginger, oregano, thyme, and allspice are known for their digestive benefits.
Avoiding trendy health foods like green smoothies is also a good idea and they may not always be as beneficial as they seem. It may not be a good idea to conume large amounts of fruit for example, simply because they contain a lot of vitamins. Such drinks can spike blood sugar levels and lead to further problems for some people with existing digestive problems.
By paying closer attention to dietary habits and supporting the gut’s natural balance, it’s possible to promote healthier digestion and overall well-being.