7 Signs You Have an Unhealthy Gut, and What to Do About It

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Nasha Addarich Martinez Dec. 4, 2025 2:39 a.m. PT

6 min read

Once you notice your gut may be unhealthy... Krisanapong Detraphiphat/Getty Images

Krisanapong Detraphiphat/Getty Images

After all, Gail Cresci, a microbiome expert at the Cleveland Clinic, describes the microorganisms inside your gut as "little pets living inside your intestinal tract," and like real-life pets, they can exhibit multiple symptoms that reveal they aren't at their best.

As your gut's microorganisms help you digest food, produce vitamins and hormones, support your

7 signs of an unhealthy gut

"If you're bloated or you have lots of gas, you may have a disrupted composition and function of the gut microbiome," Cresci said, adding that the only way to know for sure is to have it measured with a microbiome test like a stool sample.

Six other sign of an unhealthy gut may include:s

Fatigue
Food intolerance
Skin irritation or problems
Trouble sleeping
Vomiting
Upset stomach

Research has linked skin issues like acne and psoriasis to the gut. Studies are also looking into how the gut biome affects reproductive health and hormone levels.

How to keep your gut healthy

It's important to see a doctor to determine the root cause of your health concern and rule out other conditions. Making changes to your diet or routine that may improve your gut and overall health is a good first step.

Cresci also said that there's no exact standard for the perfectly healthygut microbiome because everyone's composition is so different.Bearing that in mind, here are four things you can do to help keep it onthe right track.

Everyone's gut microbiome is different, so there's no model for what a perfectly healthy one lookslike.

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