WHY IS A GUT BECOMING UNHEALTHY

An unhealthy gut, or gut dysbiosis, occurs when there is an imbalance in the gut microbiome, typically with too few beneficial bacteria and an overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This imbalance can lead to digestive issues, inflammation, immune system dysfunction, and even mental health disturbances. Here are some common reasons why a gut becomes unhealthy:

 1.   Poor Diet: Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can feed harmful bacteria, causing an imbalance. Low fiber intake limits the growth of beneficial bacteria, as fiber is their primary food source.

 2.  Overuse of Antibiotics: While antibiotics are necessary for fighting infections, they can also kill off beneficial gut bacteria, leading to an imbalance. Frequent or long-term use increases the risk of gut issues.

 3.  Chronic Stress: Stress affects gut motility, increases inflammation, and disrupts the gut lining and microbiome. Chronic stress is closely linked to conditions like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome).

 4.  Lack of Physical Activity: Regular exercise supports a diverse gut microbiome, while a sedentary lifestyle is associated with lower diversity and less favourable gut bacteria.

 5.  Poor Sleep: Sleep deprivation disrupts the body's natural rhythms, impacting the gut microbiome. Poor sleep has been linked to increased inflammation and gut permeability, also known as "leaky gut."

 6.  Excessive Alcohol Intake: Alcohol disrupts the gut lining and encourages the growth of harmful bacteria, leading to inflammation and gut permeability.

 7. Exposure to Toxins: Environmental toxins, chemicals in foods (like preservatives and artificial sweeteners), and pollution can negatively impact gut bacteria and cause inflammation.

 8.  Infections and Illnesses: Gut infections, food poisoning, and other illnesses can cause short- and long-term disruptions in the gut microbiome.

 9.  Aging: The gut microbiome naturally changes with age, often with a decline in beneficial bacteria, which can impact digestion and immunity.

 10. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal shifts, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menstruation, and menopause, can affect gut function and bacterial balance.

 These factors can lead to symptoms like bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, fatigue, and more.