The trillions of microbes that live in your gut are likened to "little pets living inside your intestinal tract." Or at least, that's how Gail Cresci, a microbiome expert at the Cleveland Clinic, describes it. But they do far more than help digest food. They also support your immune system, regulate inflammation, and produce essential compounds like vitamins and hormones that keep your body running smoothly.
Because your gut plays such a big role in your overall health, it's important to recognize when it might be struggling. Changes in digestion, immunity, or even mood can sometimes be tied back to imbalances in your microbiome. The good news is that there are ways to get those microbes back on track.
According to Cresci, simple lifestyle adjustments can restore your gut health and strengthen your microbiome. Here's how to spot the warning signs and what you can do to give your gut the support it needs.
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Signs of an unhealthy gut to watch out for
"If you're bloated or you have lots of gas, you may have a disrupted composition and function of the gut microbiome," Cresci said, adding that the only way to know for sure is to have it measured.
Other signs of an unhealthy gut may include:
Vomiting or an upset stomach
Fatigue
Trouble sleeping
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