Signs Your Intestine Isn't As Strong As It Should Be

The intestines play such a crucial role in the digestion process. Any problems with this portion of your body will become apparent to you quickly – just look out for these warning signs.

There are billions of bacteria in the gastrointestinal system, and we now know that they play an important role in not just digestion but also homeostasis and general health.

Here are five warning signals your digestive system is weak, as identified by medical professionals.

Stomach Ache

If you're experiencing abdominal discomfort, you should see your doctor in case you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a condition that impacts the large intestine. Discomfort in the upper abdomen and nausea are more indicative of an upset stomach, whereas lower abdominal pain and alterations in bathroom habits are more indicative of IBS.

Mood Swings

Many professionals believe that the condition of one's digestive tract has a direct impact on one's mental well-being. The connections between mental health and gut health, including sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion, have been fascinating to see. Although the gut microbiome is not the only determinant of mood disorders, it is a significant one.

Bloating

The presence of excess bacteria in the small intestine may cause symptoms of abdominal distension for no apparent reason. Sometimes, when stomach acid production is reduced, more colonic bacteria than usual will colonise the upper digestive system. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth is the medical term for this issue. The onset of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when colon bacteria invade the small intestine. Sugars are fermented in the gut, producing hydrogen gas and occasionally methane gas. Upper abdominal bloating, nausea, and discomfort are all symptoms associated with an increase in gas (around the stomach).

Cravings for Sweets

Intense sugar cravings often mean there are harmful microbes in the intestines. Sugar cravings in the form of yearning for sweets, bread, fruit, or dairy, are a common symptom of a compromised digestive system. Consuming excessive amounts of sugar promotes dysbiosis, or an abundance of "bad" bacteria in the stomach, which in turn promotes inflammation throughout the body.

The body is better equipped to absorb and eliminate any external harmful substances in order to prevent nutritional insufficiency when the gut is in a condition of equilibrium, which allows the good bacteria to flourish and manage inflammation and bad bacteria overgrowth.

Fatigue

An indication of digestive problems is chronic tiredness. Fatigue is brought on by inflammation because it disrupts the production of certain stress hormones. Numerous studies have shown that tiredness is a prevalent symptom of gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, leaky gut, and other GI symptoms.