What is gut dysbiosis and how to treat it naturally
Intestinal dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the microbial communities, also known as the microbiome, in our digestive tract. The gut microbiome consists of a wide variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that are important for digestive processes, our immune system, and mental health. Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is crucial, as dysbiosis can lead to a variety of health problems such as digestive disorders, but also more serious conditions like autoimmune diseases and inflammation. In this blog, we explore what dysbiosis actually is and how it develops. We also look at the symptoms that may indicate dysbiosis, as well as treatment options and preventive measures.
Table of Contents
- What is dysbiosis?
- What is the role and function of the gut?
- What is the microbiome and gut flora?
- Signs and symptoms of intestinal dysbiosis
- What are the causes of dysbiosis?
- How is intestinal dysbiosis diagnosed?
- What are the consequences of intestinal dysbiosis?
- Treatment and prevention of intestinal dysbiosis
- Summary
What is dysbiosis?
The term dysbiosis generally refers to a disrupted balance of microbial communities (bacteria, viruses, fungi) in our body. The word is derived from “dys-,” which means difficulty or disturbance, and “-biosis,” which refers to life or biological conditions. There is a shift between protective and harmful microorganisms. This condition can occur in various parts of the body, such as the gut, the skin, or even the oral cavity. Dysbiosis of the skin can lead to eczema or acne, for example, while dysbiosis in the mouth may cause problems such as gum inflammation. In this article, however, we focus exclusively on intestinal dysbiosis, meaning an imbalance of microorganisms in the digestive tract (Cleveland Clinic, 2024).
What is the difference between dysbiosis and eubiosis?
Eubiosis refers to a state of healthy, balanced microbial communities in the body. In the gut, this means that beneficial microorganisms are present in sufficient quantities to carry out all necessary functions, while harmful microorganisms are kept under control. Eubiosis is essential for well-being and disease prevention.
What is the role and function of the gut?
To understand what dysbiosis actually is, it’s helpful to take a closer look at the gut itself. The human gut starts after the stomach and ends at the anus, and is divided into two main sections: the small intestine, which is primarily responsible for the absorption of nutrients such as minerals and vitamins, and the large intestine, which absorbs water and processes waste products that are eventually excreted. In addition, about 70% of the body's immune cells are located in the gut, making it essential for defending against pathogens and maintaining health (NHS, 2020).
What is the microbiome and gut flora?
The term “microbiome” has gained significance since the early 21st century due to technological advances and has largely replaced the term “gut flora.” The term “gut flora” was once used to describe the totality of microorganisms in the gut, although the word “flora” is somewhat misleading, as it originally refers to plant life. The microbiome includes not only bacteria but all microorganisms—bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa—as well as their genetic material and the way they interact with each other and with our body (NIH, 2024).
What are the functions of the microbiome?
To better understand the tasks of the microbiome, you can refer to the various functions named below:
- Digestion of food components
- Supports the immune system
- Production of vitamin K and certain B vitamins
- Protects against pathogens
- Supports the intestinal lining
Source: Ogunrinola et al., 2020
In addition to these important functions, the microbiome also plays a key role in the gut-brain axis. This connection between the gut and brain influences our mental well-being and behavior. The microbiome can affect mood and emotional balance by regulating key neurotransmitters (such as serotonin) and controlling inflammatory processes and stress responses (Ganci et al., 2019).
Signs and symptoms of intestinal dysbiosis
Dysbiosis in the gut can manifest in a variety of symptoms that often begin subtly and worsen over time. The most common signs and symptoms include:
- Digestive issues such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation
- Fatigue or general lack of energy
- Skin problems such as acne or eczema
- Sugar cravings
- Weakened immune system
- Mood swings and mental health issues
These symptoms can vary in severity and are not exclusively caused by dysbiosis. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is advisable to consult a doctor to investigate the exact cause of your complaints (Jewell, 2019).
What are the causes of dysbiosis?
Intestinal dysbiosis can result from many different factors. The table below outlines some of the most common causes along with an explanation:
| Possible Cause | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Medications | The use of antibiotics kills not only harmful bacteria but also beneficial gut bacteria, disrupting the microbial balance. Other medications like NSAIDs or proton pump inhibitors can also negatively affect the gut microbiome. |
| Unhealthy diet | A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and fat creates an environment in the gut that favors the growth of harmful bacteria. These bacteria can contribute to the development of dysbiosis. |
| Chronic stress | Long-term stress can impair gut function and alter the composition of the microbiome, which may lead to dysbiosis. |
| Infections | Certain pathogens, such as the bacterium Helicobacter pylori or viruses, can lead to dysbiosis and may even cause stomach ulcers and chronic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining). |
| Lack of physical activity | A predominantly sedentary lifestyle can slow down the movement of intestinal contents, leading to prolonged exposure to toxins and encouraging the overgrowth of harmful bacteria. This can disrupt the gut microbiota balance. |
| Alcohol consumption | Excessive alcohol consumption can weaken the protective barrier of the intestinal wall, promote inflammation, and impair the viability of beneficial gut bacteria, thereby disturbing microbial balance. |
Source: NIEHS, 2024
How is intestinal dysbiosis diagnosed?
Diagnosing dysbiosis is difficult because it often shows no symptoms initially and only becomes noticeable over time through gastrointestinal complaints. Blood tests or endoscopic procedures alone cannot confirm dysbiosis, so a specific analysis of the gut microbiome’s composition is necessary. The most well-known diagnostic procedure is:
- Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA): This test examines bacteria, yeasts, and fungi in the stool, providing insight into the microbial balance in the gut.
Other methods include a urine organic acids test or a hydrogen/methane breath test, which detects bacterial overgrowth in the gut by measuring hydrogen or methane concentrations in the breath after consuming sugar solutions. Finally, during an endoscopy or colonoscopy, a gut biopsy may be performed. This invasive method allows direct analysis of the microbiome through tissue samples taken from the gut (Rees, 2023).
What are the consequences of intestinal dysbiosis?
Unfortunately, intestinal dysbiosis can lead to a wide range of consequences, as a healthy microbiome is essential for overall health. Below are some of the potential effects associated with dysbiosis:
- Digestive problems: Dysbiosis in the gut can affect digestive function. This often manifests in the previously mentioned symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, which are also characteristic of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a functional disorder in which these symptoms occur repeatedly, often accompanied by cramping abdominal pain. Dysbiosis can increase the severity and frequency of these symptoms.
- Malabsorption and malnutrition: When the balance of microorganisms in the gut is disturbed, it not only causes digestive issues but can also impair the gut’s ability to effectively absorb nutrients from food. This impairment is known as malabsorption. Over time, malabsorption can lead to malnutrition because the body is not receiving enough vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.
- Weakened immune system: Malnutrition caused by dysbiosis can weaken the immune system, lead to a lack of energy, and increase susceptibility to illness. Since a large part of the immune system is located in the gut, dysbiosis can also weaken immune defenses through this pathway.
- Long-term (chronic) inflammation: Dysbiosis can lead to increased intestinal permeability, often referred to as "leaky gut." This allows bacteria and toxins to enter the bloodstream more easily, potentially triggering inflammatory responses. This can increase the risk of chronic bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis.
- Mental health issues: A disrupted gut microbiome can also affect functions essential to mental health. Changes in the microbiome can influence the production of neurotransmitters, which in turn affect mood and behavior. This can contribute to mental health problems.
- Autoimmune diseases: Chronic inflammation caused by an imbalance in the gut flora can increase the risk of autoimmune diseases. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, a process that may be encouraged by a disturbed gut environment. Examples include ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, both of which are long-term inflammatory diseases of the colon or small intestine.
Source: Cleveland Clinic, 2024
Want to get an overview of your own health?
If you notice symptoms such as fatigue, digestive problems, or general discomfort—or simply want deeper insight into your health—tests like the Vitamin Deficiency Test and the Gut Inflammation Test from Homed-IQ offer a convenient way to do this from home. The Vitamin Deficiency Test can help uncover potential deficiencies, while the Inflammation in the Gut Test provides a practical way to identify inflammatory markers in the gut that may point to conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
Treatment and prevention of intestinal dysbiosis
Are you experiencing symptoms and complaints?
If you notice symptoms, you should first consult a doctor. A medical examination can determine whether you have dysbiosis and whether there is an underlying condition or a secondary disease already present. Based on this information, targeted measures can be taken to restore the balance of your gut microbiome or treat any accompanying conditions.
10 tips to relieve and prevent dysbiosis
A healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in both the treatment and prevention of dysbiosis. By adjusting your daily routines, you can positively influence the balance of your gut microbiome and support your digestive health. Here are the 10 most important tips:
- Balanced diet: Eat a varied diet that is rich in fiber, fresh fruits, and vegetables. These foods support the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Anti-inflammatory foods like berries, leafy greens, or fatty fish can also be beneficial.
- Probiotic and prebiotic foods: Consume foods rich in probiotics (e.g., yogurt, kefir) and prebiotics (e.g., garlic, onions) to promote the growth of beneficial microbes.
- Reduce sugar and processed foods: These foods can promote the growth of harmful bacteria and contribute to inflammation, so they should be kept to a minimum.
- Adequate fluid intake: The National Health Service (NHS) recommends drinking about 6 to 8 glasses of fluid per day, preferably water or unsweetened tea. Sufficient fluid intake supports digestion by helping to move food through the digestive tract and aids the body in efficiently eliminating waste (NHS, 2023).
- Limit alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can negatively affect gut health, so alcohol should only be consumed in moderation.
- Regular physical activity: Exercise promotes circulation and supports movement in the digestive tract, both of which contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking or swimming.
- Stress management: Monitor your stress levels and incorporate relaxation techniques into your routine. This may include social activities, time in nature, yoga, or specific relaxation exercises.
- Adequate sleep: Regular and restorative sleep supports overall health and helps you make more conscious lifestyle choices by keeping you well rested. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night and maintain a consistent sleep-wake schedule.
- Avoid antibiotics when possible: Antibiotics can significantly disrupt the gut microbiome. Use them only when medically necessary.
- Regular medical check-ups: Periodically checking your gut health can help detect and treat issues early.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic, 2022; Cleveland Clinic, 2024
Summary
Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in microbial communities, particularly in the gut, that can significantly affect health. Symptoms of dysbiosis may include digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, often accompanied by fatigue and skin problems. Causes are varied and include factors such as an unbalanced diet, excessive alcohol consumption, medication use (especially antibiotics), and chronic stress. This imbalance can lead to serious consequences, including chronic inflammation, irritable bowel syndrome, autoimmune diseases, and mental health issues. To treat and prevent dysbiosis, lifestyle changes such as improved diet, stress management, and regular physical activity are essential.
