10 Signs of an Unhealthy Gut

10 Signs of an Unhealthy Gut You Should Never Ignore

Your gut is more than just where food is processed. It is often referred to as the “second brain,” because of its impact on just about everything in your life, from digestion and metabolism to immune function and mood. If your gut is off the balance, your body will send poor gut health warning signals. Understanding the signs of an unhealthy gut is essential for anyone motivated to be on the right track in managing their health.

Read the blog and explore 10 signs that may indicate if your gut needs some attention:

Chronic Digestive Discomfort

    If you persistently experience gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea, this could be a sign that your gut microbiome is off the balance. A healthy gut should facilitate smooth digestion and nutrient absorption. When there is an imbalance in gut bacteria – perhaps from poor diet, stress, or antibiotics—this digestive discomfort sets in. (According to the Harvard Health Blog)

    Chronic Fatigue & Poor Sleep

    A poor gut health symptom can also lead to chronic fatigue, even if you’re getting enough sleep. There is evidence that there is a big interrelationship between gut health and the production of serotonin – the hormone that regulates mood and sleep – so a disruption can leave you feeling tired.

    Gut bacteria also regulate sleeping patterns. One such study showed that gut microbiota affects the sleep cycle.  Poor sleep cycle automatically opens the door to several health problems, again bringing the gut as a central hub for maintaining overall health.

    Unexplained Weight Fluctuations

    Sudden weight loss or gain without major dietary or activity changes could also be an unhealthy gut symptom. When the gut is not healthy, metabolism and nutrient absorption are affected, leading to changes in body weight. The microbiome influences all aspects of how we process and store fat, as well as how we regulate hunger hormones.

    A study reported, “The greater the diversity of the gut microbiome, the healthier the weight tends to be.” That means a healthy gut itself is all one needs to maintain weight in a healthy manner.

    Skin Irritations and Conditions

    As surprising as it may sound, skin health is closely related to gut health. Acne, eczema, and psoriasis are skin conditions usually associated with mechanisms of gut inflammation and dysbiosis. The gut-skin connection suggests that what happens in your gut can manifest on your skin.

    A review in Frontiers in Microbiology sheds light on how gut health influences skin conditions. Thus, the mitigation of gut disturbances may be an important step toward the mitigation of dermatological symptoms.

    Food Intolerances and Sensitivities 

    New unexplained food sensitivities, such as dairy or gluten intolerance, are the gut health symptoms you need not ignore. When the gut health is off the balance, digestion can be poor, and an inability to break down certain foods properly can lead to reactions including bloating and abdominal pain.

    Cravings for Sugar and Processed Foods 

    Do you find yourself constantly craving sugar or processed foods? It may be due to an imbalanced, unhealthy gut symptom. Even research has established that an imbalance in the gut bacteria can trigger unhealthy cravings, especially for foods that contain sugar and carbs. The overgrowth of bad bacteria thrives on sugar, leading to a vicious cycle where the more you consume, the more you crave.

    Leaving this unchecked, can take a toll on your overall health. Break the cycle by addressing gut health through targeted treatments including a balanced diet rich in pre- and pro-biotics.

    Mood Swings and Other Mental Health Disorders

    Your gut and brain are closely linked through the gut-brain axis. If your gut is off the balance, you might notice mood swings, anxiety, or even depression.  Gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters like serotonin, so an imbalance can lead to mental health struggles.

    A study published in Psychosomatic Medicine showed that individuals with more diversity in their gut microbiota showed better mental health outcomes. Such an understanding of this connection underlines the need to keep the gut healthy for emotional well-being.

    Autoimmune Conditions 

    An unhealthy gut can increase systemic inflammation and affect how your immune system operates.

    When the gut lining is compromised, toxins and partially digested food can leak into the bloodstream, potentially triggering chronic inflammation. In individuals who are predisposed, this can lead to autoimmune responses, causing the body to attack its own tissues.

    Frequent Infections and Poor Immunity

    Since a significant portion of your immune system resides in your gut, it’s no surprise that an unhealthy gut weakens your immune response. If you frequently catch cold, flu, or other infections, it could be a sign of gut imbalance, or dysbiosis.

    There is evidence from studies that a well-balanced and diverse gut microbiome can ensure a healthily functioning immune system that resists infection. A review article from Frontiers in Immunology discusses interactions between gut commensals with immune cells in the context of antimicrobial immunity.

    Bad Breath and Oral Health Concerns

      Bad gut health can be associated with bad breath, too, or even oral health due to imbalanced bacteria within the gut, which causes digestive conditions and then affects oral hygiene.

      Studies indicate that oral health can prevail by maintaining the gut microbiome in its healthy state, thus potentially reducing bad breath and other associated issues. The *Journal of Clinical Periodontology* says, “A new study in the journal points to a close link between health in the mouth and the gut, underlining the importance of both for general well-being.”

      Conclusion: Signs of an Unhealthy Gut

      Recognizing the symptoms of an unhealthy gut is crucial for improving your overall well-being. From persistent digestive problems and fatigue to mood changes and skin issues, the impact of gut health extends across many areas of your body.

      If you find yourself reading this list and marking off a few symptoms, it may be time to visit your doctor and adopt some lifestyle modifications that will help right the ship of your gut health. Pay attention to your gut, not only for physical health but also for emotional and mental well-being.

      Reference Links

      1. Harvard Health Blog on gut microbiome and digestive issues: Harvard Health Blog
      2. Nature Communications on gut microbiota and sleep: Nature Communications
      3. Obesity journal on gut microbiome and weight: Obesity Journal
      4. Frontiers in Microbiology on gut-skin connection: Frontiers in Microbiology
      5. National Institutes of Health on food intolerances and gut health: NIH Study
      6. Psychosomatic Medicine on gut health and mental health: Psychosomatic Medicine
      7. Autoimmunity Research Foundation on leaky gut and autoimmune conditions: Autoimmunity Research Foundation
      8. Frontiers in Immunology on gut health and immunity: Frontiers in Immunology
      9. Journal of Clinical Periodontology on oral and gut health connection: Journal of Clinical Periodontology

      Robotic Gastric Sleeve: Advanced Precision for Effective Weight Management

      Robotic Gastric Sleeve: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Weight Management

      Weight Management is quickly growing into a significant global concern, transcending borders and cultures. Whether due to a sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary habits, or genetic or environmental factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important than ever.

      Among the options for effective weight loss solutions, bariatric surgery has become the most effective option, and among the various surgery procedures, Robotic Gastric Sleeve also known as ‘Robotic Sleeve Gastrectomy‘ has emerged as the most common and advanced technique for those seeking long-term weight loss, improved health outcomes, and a better quality of life.

      What is a Robotic Gastric Sleeve?

      Robotic gastric sleeve is a type of bariatric surgery that helps in significant weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach.

      During the procedure, around 75-80% of the stomach is removed, leaving behind a sleeve-shaped stomach, roughly the size of a banana, incapable of holding a lot of food. This, of course, brings about hormonal changes favourable for weight loss.

      This highly effective option for surgery is performed using robotic technology that enhances the surgeon’s ability to make precise movements through small incisions better than traditional laparoscopic or open surgery methods.

      Why is the Robotic Gastric Sleeve gaining popularity?

      Those who receive the traditional approach might experience greater postoperative pain, longer hospital stays, and a delayed return to daily activities. But with this advanced robotic approach, they typically experience:

      • Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions and reduced trauma to surrounding tissues leading to lesser pain and faster recovery, unlike traditional methods.
      • Improved Precision: Robotic surgery systems offer surgeons an HD 3D view of the operating area.
      • Faster Recovery: Many patients are seen resuming their normal daily activities within a week.
      • Reduced Risk of Complications: It reduces the risk of infection and other complications since the surgery is minimally invasive.
      • Shorter Hospital Stay: With faster recovery times, many patients are able to go home within 24 hours after surgery.

      Benefits of Robotic Gastric Sleeve Beyond Weight Loss

      • Improved Metabolic Health: This leads to improvement of conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
      • Enhanced Mobility: Losing excess weight often reduces joint pain and improves physical mobility, leading to a more active lifestyle.
      • Better Quality of Life: As patients lose weight, many experience a boost in self-esteem, confidence, and mental health. The ability to participate in activities they may have previously avoided due to weight-related limitations can lead to a more fulfilling life.
      • Reduced Risk of Obesity-Related Diseases: As patients achieve and maintain a healthier weight, their risk for heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and other obesity-related conditions reduces.

      Life-Changing Impact

      A remarkable 95% of patients reported a significant enhancement in quality of life following bariatric surgery, while mortality rates decreased by a substantial 89% within five years. 

      • Migraines – 57% resolved?
      • Depression – 55% resolved?
      • Pseudotumor cerebri – 96% resolved?
      • Obstructive sleep apnea – 74-98% resolved?
      • Dyslipidemia hypercholesterolemia – 63% resolved?
      • Asthma – 82% improved or resolved?
      • Cardiovascular disease – 82% risk reduction?
      • Hypertension – 52-92% resolved?
      • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – 90% improved steatosis; 37% resolution of inflammation; 20% resolution of fibrosis?
      • GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) – 72-98% resolved?
      • Metabolic syndrome – 80% resolved?
      • Type II diabetes mellitus – 83% resolved?
      • Stress urinary incontinence – 44-88% resolved?
      • Polycystic ovarian syndrome – 79% resolution of hirsuitism; 100% resolution of menstrual dysfunction?
      • Degenerative joint disease – 41-76% resolved?
      • Venous stasis disease – 95% resolved?

      Who is a Candidate for Robotic Gastric Sleeve?

      Robotic gastric sleeve is typically recommended for people who have been unable to achieve sustained weight loss through traditional methods such as diet, exercise, or medication. This surgical approach is often considered for people with:

      • BMI above 32.5 kg/m2 with obesity-related co-morbidities
      • BMI above 37.5 kg/m2 even without co-morbidities.
      • BMI > 30 kg/m2 with life-threatening obesity-related disorders like uncontrolled diabetes, cardiovascular disease/cardiomyopathy, and severe obstructive sleep apnea.

      Bariatric surgery offers potential benefits, but it’s essential to weigh these against individual risks. Your weight, age, and medical history play a crucial role in determining your suitability for surgery. To make an informed decision, careful consideration of specific guidelines and patient factors is necessary.

      • Patients motivated to lose weight and committed to long-term follow-up
      • Patient should have attempted conservative methods of weight loss and failed in the past
      • Bariatric Surgery is to be considered only between the ages of 18 – 65 years
      • Bariatric surgery may be considered in patients more than 65 years old in the presence of severe obesity-related co-morbidities / disability

      Bariatric Surgery may be considered in patients < 18 years in special situations after pediatrician/endocrinology certification, or after attainment of puberty or completion of skeletal maturity

      Understanding the stages of Post-Surgery Recovery Process

      • Initial Recovery: Most of the patients stay at the hospital for one or two days. During this time, the pain is managed, and hydration is ensured, along with the gradual introduction of liquids.
      • Dietary Changes: The patient starts with a liquid diet and then progresses to soft food, ending with solid food over a period of weeks. The prescribed diet must be followed for faster results.
      • Follow-up Care: An important factor that enables your health professional to understand any improvement in you and change your diet or medicine accordingly.

      The Essential Lifestyle Factors for Long-Term Success

      • Balanced Diet: Emphasize high-protein, low-carb foods, plenty of vegetables, and plenty of fluids.
      • Regular Exercise: Incorporate cardio, strength training, or both in your workout session.
      • Support Systems: participating in support groups or professional counseling can help maintain motivation and accountability in your actions.

      Follow-up Care by Top Bariatric Surgeon in Delhi

      Bariatric surgery is a transformative journey for many people struggling with obesity. While the surgery itself is a critical step towards weight loss and improved health, follow-up care is equally essential to ensure lasting outcomes.

      Your choice of clinic and surgical team plays a crucial role in the success of your sleeve gastrectomy. Here’s why top bariatric surgery centres can make all the difference:  

      • Expertise at Every Step: A renowned bariatric surgeon runs a comprehensive bariatric program. They’ll guide you through pre-operative evaluation, ensure you have access to state-of-the-art surgical facilities, and offer extensive support post-surgery.?  
      • A Team You Can Trust: To run a comprehensive bariatric program, it is essential that the team comprises a Bariatric Surgeon, Bariatric Nurse, Bariatric Dietician, Program Managers, and Coordinators.  

      Before deciding, take some time to research renowned bariatric surgeons. Here are some key factors to consider:?  

      • Accreditation: Look out for clinics and surgeons accredited by recognized healthcare organizations, ensuring they meet the highest safety standards.?  
      • Surgeon Qualifications: Research the surgeon’s experience and qualifications in performing sleeve gastrectomy. ?  
      • Success Rates: Inquire about the surgeon’s success rates for the procedure.?  
      • Patient Testimonials: Reading real patient experiences can offer valuable insights into the surgeon’s approach and patient care.?  

      Consult with the best bariatric surgeon in Delhi for the finest possible care. And before you go somewhere else, why not read about us and rest assured that you are in safe hands?

      Conclusion

      Robotic gastric sleeve is a new revolutionary trend towards obesity management. The approach is recommendable for its minimally invasive nature, coupled with increased precision, and effective solution to fight obesity with less recovery time.

      After you have opted for weight loss surgery, please consult a competent healthcare professional so that the Robotic gastric sleeve may become your first step toward transforming your life.

      References

      1. American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
      2. National Institutes of Health – Bariatric Surgery
      3. Bariatric Surgery: Benefits and Risks
      4. Obesity Action Coalition
      5. https://www.theossi.com/