Gut inflammation: 6 signs that may indicate an inflamed gut and what can help to prevent it, backed by science

Gut inflammation is a condition where the lining of the gastrointestinal tract becomes irritated or swollen. When the gut becomes inflamed, some essential functions like immune regulation, nutrient absorption and even mental health can be affected through the gut-brain axis. It can be caused due to dietary, lifestyle, microbial and medical factors. The body, however, indicates that the gut is inflamed through several signs that may appear on skin and energy levels.

Bloating

Bloating is a feeling of fullness and tightness in the abdomen. This is the most common and early sign of an inflamed gut. A study review published in the US National Institutes of Health highlights that alterations in the gut microbiota can lead to inflammation, which in turn affects gut sensory and motor functions. This dysfunction may contribute to the sensation of bloating.

Fatigue

This is an often overlooked symptom of gut inflammation. A study published in NIH, titled “Fatigue in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Etiologies and Management” highlights fatigue affects nearly 50% of IBD patients and is often under-recognized and undertreated due to its subjective nature. Chronic fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest can indicate underlying health issues, including gastrointestinal problems.

Brain fog

Difficulty concentrating, poor memory, and mental fatigue is often dismissed as stress or lack of sleep, but studies suggest it can be a subtle sign of gut inflammation. A study published in NIH suggests intestinal inflammation on brain activity and cognitive function. The researchers found that persistent gut inflammation, such as that seen in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can suppress brain activity and impair cognitive functions. Chronic gut inflammation can disrupt the gut-brain axis communication, leading to cognitive symptoms.

Acne

Commonly seen as a hormonal issue, research increasingly shows that gut inflammation can directly influence skin health and lead to acne. The study titled “Potential Role of the Microbiome in Acne” explored the intricate relationship between the human microbiome and acne development. The key findings suggested that alterations in gut microbiota can influence skin health, potentially exacerbating conditions like acne.RosaceaRosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by facial redness and visible blood vessels. While often attributed to genetics or environmental triggers, research highlights a strong link between gut inflammation and rosacea through the gut-skin axis. A research article titled “Rosacea, Germs, and Bowels: A Review on Gastrointestinal Comorbidities in Rosacea” suggests studies have reported a higher prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders in individuals with rosacea compared to the general population.

Weakened immune system

Peer reviewed study from NIH suggests that 70 to 80% of the immune cells are present in the gastrointestinal tract, and gut inflammation can compromise this system, making the body more susceptible to infections, slower healing, and prolonged illnesses.A healthy microbiome helps regulate immune responses, and inflammation can reduce the number of beneficial microbes, impairing the gut’s ability to fight pathogens effectively. Chronic inflammation can affect the ability to heal and recover.

What can help to prevent an inflamed gut

Chronic inflammation in the gut should ideally be checked by a medical professional through functional testing for gut microbiota imbalances, food sensitivities, or leaky gut to address underlying issues proactively. However, dietary and lifestyle strategies are important to reduce the risks of chronic inflammation. As per PubMed Central, Probiotics can modulate immune and inflammatory mechanisms, potentially alleviating chronic intestinal diseases and supporting healthy aging.Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet can support gut health: