Uncovering the Causes of Poor Gut Health

We’ve all experienced an upset stomach at some point in our lives. But for some, this can become a daily reality due to poor gut health. There are many factors that cause poor gut health and today we will dive into the hidden causes that could be impacting your digestion.

Stress and Anxiety
It is no secret that stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on your overall health, but it can also impact your digestive system as well. Stress and anxiety release hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline which interfere with the functioning of the digestive system. This can lead to pain, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, nausea, vomiting and even acid reflux. It is important to find ways to reduce stress such as yoga or meditation in order to improve your gut health.

Nutrient Deficiencies
Not getting enough nutrients can lead to poor gut health because these key vitamins and minerals are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Not getting enough calcium, iron or magnesium can cause abdominal pain, constipation and other issues related to digestion. Vitamin deficiencies including vitamin B12, D and A may also cause difficulty digesting food which leads to poor gut health as well.

Food Intolerances/Allergies
Having a food intolerance or allergy means your body has difficulty digesting certain foods which can lead to poor gut health symptoms like bloating or cramping after eating them. The most common type of food allergies are dairy (lactose intolerance) and gluten (celiac disease). If you think you may have a food intolerance or allergy it is best to speak with your doctor about being tested so you know what foods you need to avoid in order to ensure optimal gut health.

Poor gut health can have serious consequences on our bodies if left untreated so it is important that we figure out what’s causing it in order get back on track towards better digestion. While there are many known causes such as stress, nutrient deficiencies and food intolerances/allergies; sometimes uncovering them requires going beyond the surface level assessment by speaking with a healthcare professional who specializes in digestive disorders. Taking proactive steps now towards better gut health will ensure that your body remains healthy in the long run!