10 Warning Signs of Gut Health Issues
know about the warning signs given by your gut and what to do, like useful tips to overcome it, and more.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan MBBS
Last updated on 24th Jul, 2025
Introduction
Your gut is often called your "second brain" because it plays a crucial role in your overall health. A healthy gut helps with digestion, immunity, and even mental well-being. But when something goes wrong, your body sends warning signals. Recognising these signs early can help you take action before minor issues become serious.
Here are 10 warning signs of gut health issues that you should never ignore.
1. Frequent Digestive Problems
If you often experience bloating, gas, diarrhoea, or constipation, your gut might be struggling. While occasional digestive discomfort is normal, persistent issues could indicate an imbalance in gut bacteria (dysbiosis), food intolerances, or conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
What to do:
- Keep a food diary to identify trigger foods.
- Increase fibre intake gradually (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
- Stay hydrated and consider probiotics.
2. Unexplained Weight Changes
Sudden weight loss or gain without changes in diet or exercise could be linked to gut health. Poor gut health can affect nutrient absorption, leading to weight loss. Conversely, an imbalanced gut microbiome may contribute to weight gain by altering metabolism.
What to do:
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fibre.
- Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar.
- Consult a doctor if weight changes are unexplained.
Consult a Top gastroenterologist for the best advice
3. Constant Fatigue or Sleep Issues
Your gut produces serotonin, a hormone that affects mood and sleep. An unhealthy gut can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to fatigue, insomnia, or poor sleep quality.
What to do:
- Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
- Reduce caffeine and sugar intake before bedtime.
- Consider gut-friendly foods like yoghurt, kefir, and fermented foods.
4. Skin Problems (Acne, Eczema, Rashes)
Skin conditions like acne, eczema, or rosacea may be linked to gut inflammation. A "leaky gut" (intestinal permeability) allows toxins to enter the bloodstream, triggering skin reactions.
What to do:
- Eat anti-inflammatory foods (berries, leafy greens, nuts).
- Stay hydrated and avoid excessive dairy or sugar.
- Consult a dermatologist if skin issues persist.
5. Food Intolerances
If certain foods (like dairy, gluten, or FODMAPs) cause bloating, cramps, or nausea, you may have a food intolerance. Unlike allergies, intolerances occur when your gut struggles to digest certain foods.
What to do:
- Try an elimination diet to identify triggers.
- Consider digestive enzymes if needed.
- Consult a nutritionist for personalised advice.
6. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Persistent bad breath, even with good oral hygiene, may indicate gut issues. An overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the gut can produce foul-smelling gases that affect breath.
What to do:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Chew sugar-free gum or fennel seeds.
- Improve gut health with probiotics.
7. Frequent Mood Swings or Anxiety
The gut-brain connection is strong; poor gut health can contribute to anxiety, depression, or mood swings. An imbalanced gut microbiome affects neurotransmitter production.
What to do:
- Eat probiotic-rich foods (yoghurt, kimchi, sauerkraut).
- Practice stress-reducing activities (yoga, meditation).
- Seek professional help if mood issues persist.
8. Autoimmune Conditions
An unhealthy gut may trigger autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Leaky gut allows harmful substances to enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation.
What to do:
- Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet.
- Avoid processed foods and excess sugar.
- Work with a healthcare provider for proper management.
9. Sugar Cravings
Craving sugar excessively? Harmful gut bacteria thrive on sugar, leading to more cravings. This creates a vicious cycle of poor gut health.
What to do:
- Reduce refined sugar intake.
- Opt for natural sweeteners (honey, fruits).
- Eat protein and fibre-rich foods to curb cravings.
10. Frequent Infections or Weak Immunity
Since 70% of your immune system is in your gut, frequent colds, infections, or slow healing may indicate poor gut health.
What to do:
- Eat immune-boosting foods (ginger, garlic, citrus fruits).
- Get enough sleep and exercise.
- Consider probiotics and vitamin supplements if needed.
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience persistent gut issues, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider. Conditions like IBS, Crohn’s disease, or celiac disease need proper diagnosis and treatment.
Final Thoughts
Your gut health impacts your entire body. By paying attention to these warning signs, like IBS, crohns disease or celiac disease and making simple lifestyle changes like eating proper foods, being stress-free and doing exercise, you can improve digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.
Consult a Top gastroenterologist for the best advice
Consult a Top gastroenterologist for the best advice
Dr Rohit Sureka
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS, DNB General Medicine, DNB Gastroenterology
Jaipur
Apollo 247 virtual - Rajasthan, Jaipur
Dr Harish K C
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Bangalore
Manipal Hospital, Bangalore
Dr. Paramesh K N
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MS ( General Surgery), DNB ( Surgical Gastroenterology)
Hyderabad
Sprint Diagnostics Centre, Hyderabad
Dr. Gorantla Sarath Chandra
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MD, DM (Gastro)
Hyderabad
Star Hospital, Financial District, Hyderabad
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Vijay Rai
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
19 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,MD GASTROENTOLOGY
Kolkata
Livgastro, Kolkata
Consult a Top gastroenterologist for the best advice
Dr Rohit Sureka
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS, DNB General Medicine, DNB Gastroenterology
Jaipur
Apollo 247 virtual - Rajasthan, Jaipur
Dr Harish K C
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MBBS MD DM MRCP(UK) (SCE-Gastroenterology and Hepatology)
Bangalore
Manipal Hospital, Bangalore
Dr. Paramesh K N
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
16 Years • MBBS, MS ( General Surgery), DNB ( Surgical Gastroenterology)
Hyderabad
Sprint Diagnostics Centre, Hyderabad
Dr. Gorantla Sarath Chandra
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
15 Years • MD, DM (Gastro)
Hyderabad
Star Hospital, Financial District, Hyderabad
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Vijay Rai
Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist
19 Years • MBBS,MD General Medicine,MD GASTROENTOLOGY
Kolkata
Livgastro, Kolkata
