“It's not stress, it's your microbiota”: 7 common myths about gut health

Have you been told that your digestive symptoms are caused by stress? While stress has a real impact on gut health, it's not always the real culprit. In many cases, the source of discomfort lies in an imbalance in your gut microbiota - that ecosystem of bacteria that influences everything from your digestion to your mood.

Digestive health is surrounded by myths that can waste your time, money and, most importantly, your health. Generic solutions, contradictory advice and superficial diagnoses don't always get you on the right track.

In this article, we debunk the most common misconceptions about digestion, intolerances, SIBO and bloating, and tell you what you can do about them. really may be happening in your belly.

Myth 1 - “It's all in your head”.”

The reality is that there is a close connection between the gut and the brain (the gut-brain axis), but that does not mean that everything is psychological. Symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhoea or post-meal fatigue can have specific physical causes such as gut dysbiosis or SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

You are not exaggerating. Your symptoms are real and have a biological explanation.

Myth 2 - “You just need to eat more fibre”.”

The reality is that while fibre is essential for overall gut health, it is not always the solution. In people with SIBO or certain intolerances, too much fibre can make symptoms worse, causing more fermentation, gas or discomfort.

Not everything that is “healthy” is suitable for everyone.

Myth 3 - “Take probiotics and everything will be fine”.”

The reality is that probiotics can be allies, but not always. In cases of SIBO, unknowingly taking probiotics can feed unwanted bacteria in the small intestine, making symptoms worse.

Knowing when, what type and how to take them is key.

Myth 4 - “If you eat healthy, you can't have digestive problems”.”

The reality is that there are people who eat healthy, avoid ultra-processed foods and still suffer from bloating, gas or post-meal fatigue. The reason? Hidden intolerances, dysbiosis, or an unbalanced microbiota.

Eating healthy is not always synonymous with digesting well.

Myth 5 - “It's normal to bloat after eating”.”

It is common, yes, but common is not the same as normal. Persistent bloating, especially if it occurs daily or after specific meals, may indicate intolerances, dysbiosis or SIBO.

If it happens to you often, don't normalise it. Investigate it.

Myth 6 - “The only thing that works is the FODMAP diet”.”

The low FODMAP diet may temporarily alleviate symptoms, but does not solve the root of the problem. Moreover, poorly applied, it can further unbalance the microbiota.

Ideally, test first, then customise.

Myth 7 - “You don't need to be tested, everything is functional”.”

“Functional” does not mean “imaginary”. There are specific tests such as breath tests for SIBO, fructose or lactose intolerance. Not everything digestive has to be treated blindly.

Yes, there is clinical evidence for your case.

How do you know if your microbiota is out of balance?

Pay attention to these signs:

• Frequent swelling
• Nuisance gases
• Tiredness after eating
• Mood swings (irritability, anxiety)
• Diarrhoea or constipation without clear cause

If you have several of these complaints, you could have an imbalance in your microbiota, an undiagnosed intolerance, or SIBO.

Conclusion: Your digestive health is not a myth, it's science (and it can be measured).

You don't have to live with doubts or symptoms that no one can explain. Your body is constantly talking to you, and with the help of the right test, you can begin to understand what it is saying.

The microbiota is not a fad. It is a complex and powerful ecosystem that deserves to be listened to and cared for.

Click here to find out which test you need → and start living without digestive discomfort.

References:

1. Mayer EA, Knight R, Mazmanian SK, Cryan JF, Tillisch K. Gut microbes and the brain: paradigm shift in neuroscience. J Neurosci [Internet]. 2014;34(46):15490-6. Available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.3299-14.2014

2. Rezaie A, Buresi M, Lembo A, Lin H, McCallum R, Rao S, et al. Hydrogen and methane-based breath testing in gastrointestinal disorders: The north American consensus. Am J Gastroenterol [Internet]. 2017;112(5):775-84. Available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/ajg.2017.46

3. Pimentel M, Saad RJ, Long MD, Rao SSC. ACG clinical guideline: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Am J Gastroenterol [Internet]. 2020;115(2):165-78. Disponible en: http://dx.doi.org/10.14309/ajg.0000000000000501

4. Wei L, Singh R, Ro S, Ghoshal UC. Gut microbiota dysbiosis in functional gastrointestinal disorders: Underpinning the symptoms and pathophysiology. JGH Open [Internet]. 2021;5(9):976-87. Available at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/jgh3.12528