Gut dysbiosis is an imbalance in the gut microbiome, which is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes. An optimal gut microbiome is key for digestion, immunity, and overall health. This delicate balance is all too easily disrupted, and can lead to various health concerns, which come under the term ‘gut dysbiosis.’
Digestive issues affect many of us in the UK, with over 40% of people experiencing at least one digestive symptom regularly1. Gut dysbiosis can occur when the balance between beneficial and harmful microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract is disturbed. This imbalance can affect digestion and nutrient absorption, which can trigger inflammation and contribute to several chronic health conditions. A balanced gut microbiome is crucial for both maintaining a healthy digestive system, and a robust immune response.2
Signs of Gut Dysbiosis
Symptoms of gut dysbiosis vary, but often include:
- Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, and heartburn.
- Skin Problems: Acne, eczema, and rashes.
- Fatigue and Mood Disorders: Chronic fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and depression.
- Food Intolerances: Difficulty digesting certain foods, leading to bloating or stomach pain.
- Weakened Immunity: Frequent infections or autoimmune conditions.
What Causes Gut Dysbiosis?
A number of factors can disrupt the gut microbiome and include:
- Diet: High sugar, processed foods, and artificial additives can damage gut flora. A diet lacking in fibre can also lead to a decline in ‘good’ bacteria.3
- Antibiotics: Overuse kills beneficial bacteria along with harmful ones. A single course of antibiotics can significantly impact gut flora.4
- Stress: Chronic stress alters the gut-brain axis and microbiome balance.5
- Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections may disrupt gut health. Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections are particularly known for altering gut flora.6
- Chemicals: Exposure to pesticides, BPA, and other chemicals can affect the microbiome.7
- Associated Health Conditions Gut dysbiosis has been linked to various health conditions, including:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Dysbiosis is prevalent in IBS patients.
- Obesity and Diabetes: Imbalanced gut flora can affect metabolism and insulin sensitivity.8
- Autoimmune Disorders: Dysbiosis may contribute to autoimmune diseases like Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.9
- Leaky Gut Syndrome Gut dysbiosis often coexists with leaky gut syndrome (intestinal permeability). Leaky gut occurs when the intestinal lining becomes compromised, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can lead to systemic inflammation and an exaggerated immune response.
Addressing Gut Dysbiosis:
If you have symptoms of gut dysbiosis or leaky gut, taking proactive steps towards improving your gut health is essential. At HUM2N, we offer a comprehensive solution through our Gut Barrier Panel home test and Gut Healing Protocol.
Gut Barrier Panel Test:
This test provides insights into your gut health, helping to identify the specific nature of your gut dysbiosis, and it forms the foundation for creating a personalised approach to healing your gut.
Gut Healing Protocol:
A personalised selection of HUM2N gut repair supplements based on your test results, PLUS a bespoke elimination diet to identify and eliminate trigger foods, promoting effective gut healing.
Supplements for Gut Dysbiosis:
HUM2N Gut Cleanser: An expertly-formulated blend of botanicals including berberine, black walnut extract, and wormwood, which help cleanse the digestive tract, removing harmful bacteria, parasites, and toxins.
HUM2N Flora Balancer: Replenishes beneficial bacteria and supports a balanced gut microbiome.
Both gut dysbiosis and leaky gut can significantly impact your overall health and well-being, but understanding the symptoms and causes is the first step towards gut repair. At HUM2N, our comprehensive Gut Barrier Panel and personalised Gut Healing Protocol aim to restore your gut to optimal health. By integrating science-backed, alongside a bespoke diet tailored to your needs, you can reclaim your gut health and improve your overall quality of life.
References:
1Guts Charity UK (2016)
https://gutscharity.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/DigestingTheFactsReport.pdf
2 Wiertsema, S. P., van Bergenhenegouwen, J., Garssen, J., & Knippels, L. M. J. (2021). The Interplay between the Gut Microbiome and the Immune System in the Context of Infectious Diseases throughout Life and the Role of Nutrition in Optimizing Treatment Strategies. Nutrients, 13(3), 886. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13030886
3 Conlon, M. A., & Bird, A. R. (2014). The impact of diet and lifestyle on gut microbiota and human health. Nutrients, 7(1), 17–44. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu7010017
4 Patangia, D. V., Anthony Ryan, C., Dempsey, E., Paul Ross, R., & Stanton, C. (2022). Impact of antibiotics on the human microbiome and consequences for host health. MicrobiologyOpen, 11(1), e1260. https://doi.org/10.1002/mbo3.1260
5 Foster, J. A., Rinaman, L., & Cryan, J. F. (2017). Stress & the gut-brain axis: Regulation by the microbiome. Neurobiology of stress, 7, 124–136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ynstr.2017.03.001
6 Sehgal, K., & Khanna, S. (2021). Gut microbiome and Clostridioides difficile infection: a closer look at the microscopic interface. Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology, 14, 1756284821994736. https://doi.org/10.1177/1756284821994736
7 Hampl, R., & Stárka, L. (2020). Endocrine disruptors and gut microbiome interactions. Physiological research, 69(Suppl 2), S211–S223. https://doi.org/10.33549/physiolres.934513
8Zaky, A., Glastras, S. J., Wong, M. Y. W., Pollock, C. A., & Saad, S. (2021). The Role of the Gut Microbiome in Diabetes and Obesity-Related Kidney Disease. International journal of molecular sciences, 22(17), 9641. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22179641
9Chang, S. H., & Choi, Y. (2023). Gut dysbiosis in autoimmune diseases: Association with mortality. Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology, 13, 1157918. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcimb.2023.1157918