Bloating, bathroom troubles, low energy? Your gut could be trying to tell you something important
We’ve all felt it, that uncomfortable bloating after a meal, the sudden urgency to find a bathroom, or the nagging sluggishness that no amount of sleep seems to fix. When your gut isn’t happy, neither are you.
As a doctor, I’ve seen how often women dismiss these symptoms as “normal” or “just stress,” when in fact, they can be signs of a gut that's out of balance. Let’s unpack what might be going on, and what you can do to feel better.
What You Need to Know
Your gut does far more than digest food. It’s home to trillions of bacteria (the gut microbiome) that influence everything from your mood to your metabolism.
Common signs your gut might be off-balance:
-
Gas and bloating
-
Irregular bowel movements
-
Food sensitivities
-
Low energy or brain fog
-
Skin issues
-
Frequent colds or infections
Even if you’re not experiencing all of these, a few can signal that your digestion could use some support.
Why It Matters
An unhealthy gut isn’t just uncomfortable, it can affect your entire wellbeing.
Poor digestion means you may not absorb nutrients properly, no matter how healthy your diet is. Inflammation in the gut can also affect hormones, immune response, and even your mood.
I often tell my patients: “Heal the gut first, and the rest will follow.”
What You Can Do Today
You don’t need a complete overhaul, just start small and stay consistent.
Five gut-friendly habits I recommend in practice:
-
Simplify your meals. Lightly cooked vegetables, lean proteins, and fermented foods.
-
Start a high-quality probiotic. Look for one with multiple strains.
-
Use activated charcoal mindfully. Ideal for gas and bloating after meals.
-
Add soluble fibre gradually. Psyllium husk, chia seeds, or oats (always with enough water).
-
Calm your nervous system. Breathing exercises, gentle movement, and magnesium can help restore balance.
Doctor’s Insight
Many women push through digestive discomfort, assuming it’s just stress or something they ate. But your gut is your second brain, when it’s off, everything else can feel off too.
In my own routine, I’ve found that small rituals, a mindful breakfast, a quiet walk, a probiotic before bed, have more lasting impact than big, dramatic detoxes.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
References:
-
NIH Human Microbiome Project: https://commonfund.nih.gov/hmp
-
Harvard Health – The Gut-Brain Connection: https://www.health.harvard.edu
-
Mayo Clinic – Probiotics: What You Need to Know: https://www.mayoclinic.org
-
British Journal of Nutrition (2014). Impact of the gut microbiota on human health and disease
-
World Journal of Gastroenterology (2015). Irritable bowel syndrome: a gut microbiota-related disorder?