5 Signs Your Gut Health Needs Some Love (And What to Do About It)

Gut health. It's one of those things you don't really think about—until it starts acting up.

Imagine this…you're trying to enjoy your favorite meal, but bloating, sluggishness, or something else entirely is ruining the vibe. Sound familiar? If so, your gut might be trying to tell you something.

Here are five signs your gut health needs a little TLC and what you can do to get it back on track.

1. YOU FEEL BLOATED AFTER ALMOST EVERYTHING YOU EAT

That constant "stuffed balloon" feeling isn’t normal, no matter how many carbs you’ve just devoured. Bloating is often a sign your gut is struggling to break down food properly. It could be related to food sensitivities, lack of enzymes, or even an imbalance in your gut bacteria. Left unchecked, chronic bloating can make meals something you dread instead of enjoy.

What to Do: Start a food diary to track what’s triggering your bloating. Keep an eye out for patterns—common culprits include dairy, gluten, or highly processed foods. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, or fermented veggies to help balance your gut flora. Need something extra? Consider adding a high-quality digestive enzyme to your routine, especially if certain meals feel particularly heavy.

2. YOUR ENERGY LEVELS ARE IN THE TANK

Feeling sluggish all day, no matter how much coffee you’ve had? Your gut might not be absorbing nutrients effectively, leaving you running on empty. The foods you eat might be full of vitamins and minerals, but if your gut isn’t in top shape, those nutrients might not be making it into your bloodstream.

What to Do: Focus on whole foods that are easy to digest and nutrient-dense, like bone broth, leafy greens, and sweet potatoes. If you’re looking for something simple, consider IsaLean Protein Shake. It’s derived entirely from whole foods and contains the full vitamin profile of those foods, as well as digestive enzymes, making it a convenient, gut-friendly option for boosting energy levels.
(Prefer a vegan protein shake? Check out this one.)

Curious about the science behind it? Check out this article on vitamers to learn more about why whole-food-derived nutrients matter.

3. YOU’RE CONSTANTLY DEALING WITH SKIN ISSUES

Breakouts, rashes, or even eczema can be linked to poor gut health. When your gut isn’t happy, inflammation can show up on your skin. This connection is often referred to as the gut-skin axis, and it’s no joke. If you’ve been cycling through skincare products with little success, your gut might be the culprit.

What to Do: Ditch processed foods and eat more anti-inflammatory options like salmon, turmeric, and walnuts. Drinking plenty of water is key, and for an added boost, try this delicious drink mix my family and I love, Hydrate with Hyaluronic Acid. Not only does it keep you hydrated, but it also supports skin health by locking in moisture. On the outside, probiotic skincare products can complement your gut-healing efforts by calming inflammation and balancing your skin microbiome.

4. YOUR MOOD IS ALL OVER THE PLACE

Ever heard of the gut-brain connection? Your gut is like your second brain. If it’s out of whack, you might notice anxiety, mood swings, or even brain fog. This happens because your gut produces a significant portion of your body’s serotonin—the “happy hormone”—and communicates directly with your brain via the vagus nerve.

What to Do: Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga to calm both your mind and your gut. Adding fermented foods like kimchi or kefir to your diet can also help regulate your gut-brain axis by boosting the good bacteria in your gut. Bonus tip: magnesium is a superstar supplement that supports mood, relaxation, and digestion—a triple win for gut health. Here are the 2 forms of magnesium I have found that provide the best results: Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Glycinate.

5. YOU’RE HITTING THE BATHROOM WAY TOO OFTEN (OR NOT ENOUGH)

Gut issues often show up as irregular bowel movements—either you’re always running to the bathroom, or you’re feeling backed up. Neither extreme is normal, and ignoring these signs can lead to bigger issues over time.

What to Do: Gradually increase your fiber intake with foods like oats, flaxseeds, and berries to help regulate your digestion. Drinking plenty of water and staying active can also make a big difference. Need inspiration? Here’s a helpful resource on top healthy foods with fiber to get you started. If irregularity persists, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider for tailored advice.

Need a simple way to add a boost of fiber to your foods? Try this one that contains six different sources of plant fiber and various probiotics to effectively restore the balance of healthy gut bacteria.

WRAPPING IT ALL UP…

Your gut plays a bigger role in your overall health than you might think. If any of these signs are hitting close to home, don’t ignore them. A few simple changes to your diet, lifestyle, and supplement routine can make all the difference.

Remember, gut health is a journey, not a destination. Start small, listen to your body, and give your gut the love it deserves. Trust me, your body will thank you!

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P.S. A few of the products I’ve shared here are ones I personally use and adore. If you decide to purchase through the links, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for helping me keep this blog thriving!