Doctor reveals the most common signs of an unhealthy gut – from bloating to bad breath

If you’re feeling bloated or suffering from bad breath, it might not just be down to eating too much or not brushing your teeth, but bad gut health.

Not only can gut health issues make us feel fatigued and foggy, but they can also lead to major health issues including diabetes down the track. 

Leading GP and founder of Whole Medicine Dr Michelle Woolhouse, from Victoria, has revealed the six signs you have poor gut health – and what to do about it. 

1. Digestive issues

The first signal that shows something is up with your gut is digestive issues.

Speaking to Bed Threads, Dr Woolhouse said that your stool should be easy to pass and should happen between one and three times each day.

‘Infrequent and/or hard to pass stools can be a sign of an unhealthy gut and should be carefully monitored,’ she said. 

If this becomes an issue and goes on for a while, you may wish to consult your GP.

2. Bloating

Bloating is common for many people, who find that they are sensitive to different foods.

Dr Woolhouse explained that bloating is caused by excessive gas production in the intestines.

This can be caused by several things, including an intolerance to certain foods, stress and digestive issues.

Keep an eye on how your stomach reacts to different foods like spice – and eliminate them if they’re causing problems.

3. Abdominal pain

A stomach ache could mean you’re run down.

But if you’re experiencing pain regularly – especially in your abdomen area – Dr Woolhouse said this is a clear sign your gut needs some attention.

The easiest way to deal with this is consult your GP, who will take a look and prescribe you with the relevant advice or medicines needed to cut the stomach aches from your life.

Bloating and abdominal pain are uncomfortable – and could be signs your digestion isn’t functioning as it should (stock image)

4. Reflux and heartburn

If you’re someone who suffers from reflux or heartburn, you’ll know how uncomfortable the burning feeling in our chest is.

Dr Woolhouse said there are a range of causes for this condition, but one of them is an unhealthy gut. 

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* Eat foods that are rich in prebiotics and probiotics.

* A shot of lemon juice before every meal can help with digestion.

* Eat smaller meals and chew your food slowly so it liquefies before you swallow.

* Limit acidity by eating alkalising foods like green, leafy vegetables.

* Soak or ferment your grains to make them easier to digest.

* Limit dairy, gluten and animal protein – unless it’s in soups or stews, which are kinder on the digestion.

* Load up with steamed or sautéed vegetables instead of raw.

* Try not to eat when you are angry or stressed. 

5. Bad breath  

Like heartburn, bad breath can signal all sorts of issues – including teeth and mouth infections.

But it can also be a warning that your gut isn’t functioning as it should.

The GP recommends you see a dentist if it’s a problem, while Be Well advocates that you try oil pulling or tongue scraping to get rid of it. 

6. Poor appetite 

Lastly, if your appetite has changed recently and you’re not sure why, it might be a good idea to look towards your gut. 

Dr Woolhouse said this could be a signal that your digestive system isn’t properly processing the food you’re eating – and you need to do something about it.

Try keeping a food diary and visit your GP with this information. 

The Beauty Chef’s founder Carla Oates also recommends you include pre and probiotics in your wellness regime to increase healthy gut bacteria.  

For more information about Whole Medicine, please click here.