Warning Signs of Poor Intestinal Health

 

Warning Signs of Poor Intestinal Health

Exposure to high stress, processed meals, and heavy prescription medication is nothing out of the ordinary these days, which is why it’s no wonder that so many people suffer from constipation, bloating, and heartburns that are signs of poor digestion. Aside from the latter, many other symptoms indicate poor intestinal health. From bad breath to body odor, here are some of the lesser known indicators that you should watch out for.

Fragile Hair and Nails

If your hair and nails are breaking off too easily, it may be an indicator that your body is not producing enough acid to digest food properly. Inadequate stomach acid prevents the body from reaping nutrients like protein, calcium, and zinc, which are all vital to having healthy nails and hair.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, brittle hair and nails are considered to be an external representation of poor digestion because they reflect your body’s ability to absorb and digest nutrients.

Bad Breath

Bad breath that just refuses to perish no matter how many times you brush your teeth or gargle with mouthwash could mean that something is wrong with your digestive system.

Digestive issues are the little-known but significant cause of bad breath. A fishy breath could suggest kidney problems, while a fruity breath may signal uncontrolled diabetes. When there’s an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in your gut, the smell may worsen after consuming something sugary because the bad bacteria is feeding off the sugar.

Digestive system disorders, such gastroesophageal reflux, are also a cause of foul breath.

Lack of Energy After Eating

Although some people usually take naps after a meal, feeling weak and exhausted after eating may indicate poor digestion. When the system is under strain, it directs its energy to digest and assimilate food, leaving you feeling tired and sleepy.

Overeating is another problem, especially when you’re no longer hungry. Overeating makes it difficult for your body to fuel you and your digestive system. You can correct this by eating smaller meals with healthy snacks in between to make it easier for your digestive system to break down food.

Going for a quick walk after eating can help improve digestion. You can also try drinking a spoonful of apple cider vinegar mixed in a glass of water before each meal, which is beneficial in correcting some digestive issues.

Body Odor

Poor digestion causes the production of foul-smelling chemicals in the gut, which is then absorbed back into the body and eliminated through the skin in the form of sweat.

Since protein-rich foods can take longer to digest, they sometimes cause body odor. A 2006 study reported that a group of participants on a non-meat diet had a significantly more pleasant and less intense smell compared to the meat-eating participants.

If you are experiencing an unpleasant rise in body odor, especially after eating, then your digestive enzymes levels may be lower than ideal. Avoid consuming red meat which can be difficult for the body to break down.

A Healthy Diet is Key

Ultimately, a diet rich in whole foods and probiotics goes a long way in ensuring that your digestive system remains healthy. While it’s important to pay close attention to health indicators, you should still consult your doctor to diagnose and treat any possible medical conditions.