What are the causes of poor gut health?

So far, the causes of poor gut health are somewhat undetermined, therefore, a diagnosis is usually made based on signs and symptoms. There are theories predicting that poor gut health are most likely caused by:

  • Genetic factors
  • Gut-brain axis problems
  • Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
  • Food sensitivity and allergies
  • Gut motility problems
  • Intestinal infection
  • Stress

How to manage poor gut health?

There are practices that can be easily applied in everyday life to improve poor gut health associated symptoms:

  • A low FODMAP diet

In short, FODMAPs are short chain carbohydrates which include short chain oligo-saccharide polymers of fructose and galactooligosaccharides, lactose, fructose and sugar alcohols such as sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol and maltitol. They are very poorly absorbed in the small intestine, and as a result, causing gut disorders. Studies have shown that a low FODMAP diet is beneficial for most people suffering from poor gut health

  • Fiber supplementation

Some research suggests that fiber supplementation such as psyllium or ispagula husk is effective in relieving the symptoms of poor gut health. However, this might only be beneficial in those who have constipation, for some, fiber supplementation might aggravate gut health symptoms

  • Medication

Diarrhoea medication, gut antispasmodic, laxative, nerve pain medication and antibiotics are quite often prescribed to manage poor gut health symptoms

  • Self-care

Regular aerobic exercise can improve cardiovascular health and help relieve gut health symptoms. In the meantime, it is also beneficial to pursue enjoyable activities to reduce stress