Imagine you’re at a classical concert listening to a symphony an orchestra is playing. Oh, the various sections blend so well and the music is breathtaking. You are taken away to another time, you relax, and then the music increases in volume and intensity. And then you’re on the edge of your seat. You are amazed how all the musicians harmonize so well together.
Now imagine a different scenario. You’re at the same concert but the brass section is off, the percussion section is too loud, and the strings are not up-to-par. The music might sound okay but not as beautiful as if they’re all playing in sync, in harmony. Or maybe they are all off, and it sounds like they’re warming up with discord and musical chaos.
Our bodies are the same. God created us and each part in our body as an interconnected web. What affects one area affects the other areas. You cannot isolate one part of your body or mind from the other parts.
And one part that is very important is your gut (AKA digestive) health and your microbiome.
What is the Microbiome and Why Should You Care?
Your microbiome is composed of the microorganisms in your gastrointestinal tract such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Isn’t God amazing to create your gut microbiome which contributes so much to your health and wellness. It influences your metabolism, immunity, keeping infections away, digestion of food, production of vitamins, mood, and cognition. It’s an active part in your body, and we are still finding out more about what it does.
But if your bacteria are out of balance, what happens? When that happens, it is called dysbiosis. Many people are affected by this and don’t even know it. So how can you tell if that’s you?
Symptoms You May Have if You Have Dysbiosis
- Digestive issues (diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, vomiting, excessive gas)
- Food intolerances
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Slow gastrointestinal or gallbladder motility
- Chronic Fatigue
- Malnutrition
- Headaches
- Acid reflux, heartburn, GERD
- Aching joints
- Skin rashes, psoriasis, acne
- Problems concentration and paying attention
- Anxiety and depression
- Rectal itching
When you do not have a variety of bacteria or you have too many “bad” bacteria and not enough of the “good” bacteria, your risk of chronic disease increases. That’s why you want to make sure your gut microbiome is in balance.
So the orchestra and the necessity of the musicians playing harmoniously is similar to our bodies. When your stomach hurts, if your gut bacteria are out of balance, you may have some pain or constipation, but you just keep on going. It might not make a difference that day. But overtime, if you continue as is, it can affect your body and mind and may even cause long-term chronic health issues. Just like the discord created by an orchestra in which chords clash or the music isn’t appealing, our body needs all the parts to work in harmony for optimal functioning and our optimal health.
What Chronic Health Conditions May Occur with Dysbiosis?
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Crohn’s Disease
- Ulcerative Colitis
- Diabetes type 2
- Obesity
- Parasitic infections
- Cardiovascular problems
- Nervous system disorders
- Chronic Allergies and skin issues
Possible Causes of Dysbiosis
I’m often asked what causes dysbiosis. The causes vary per person but may include one or some of the following: infections (C. difficile and H. Pylori), parasites, genetic issues, diets high in sugar or refined carbohydrates, prolonged use of medications such as antibiotics or PPIs, constipation, slow motility, alcohol abuse, food additives, high stress, and poor sleep.
What Can You Do to Help Your Gut Microbiome?
There are some easier things you can do. Some things you can do today to help your gut microbiome and decrease your symptoms include eating a varied and nutrient-dense diet, low sugar and low processed foods, limiting alcohol, reducing chemicals and food additives, taking probiotics and supplements to help gut health, learning stress management techniques, and getting enough sleep.
In addition, making time for quiet time with journaling, reading your Bible and devotions, and making time for fun can help reduce stress and improve spiritual, mental, and emotional health which in turn helps your physical health.
You can also have further in-depth testing done to be sure you don’t have an infection that needs special treatment. Or to make sure you don’t have anything anatomically wrong. So go see your medical practitioner, too.
So don’t let your body continue to be like the discord in the orchestra. Reach out to someone to help. And if you don’t know where to get help, ask me. We can do a free 20-minute consult to see if I think I can help. If not, I’ll be honest and refer you to someone who can. It’s that simple. I’ve been where you are. I’ve helped others. So let me help you. Click here to schedule a free consult today.
I am a national board certified health and wellness coach and help women over 40 who have digestive issues like bloating, constipation), brain fog, fatigue, weight issues, as well as thyroid and autoimmune problems. I work with you and as a team, we focus on nutrition and lifestyle factors to help you have more energy, think clearer, and fit into those favorite jeans again. You can do this! You just might need some help from someone who’s been there herself and worked with clients – helping guide, support, and encourage you each small step of the way. Contact me here to set up a free strategy session to see how we can work together. — Leah Cheshire, NBC-HWC
