Is Your Gut Healthy? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself

​When it comes to health in midlife, we tend to focus on the usual suspects: hormones, sleep, and fitness.

But one crucial area often flies under the radar - our gut health.

You may not even realize it, but your gut plays a huge role in how energized, clear-headed, and comfortable you feel each day. And as you enter your 40s, 50s, and beyond, your gut health becomes even more important because it impacts everything from weight to immunity and even mood.

Let’s dive into five essential questions to ask yourself to see if your gut is as healthy as it could be - and how you can start nurturing it for optimal health and vitality.

1.  Do You Frequently Feel Bloated, Gassy, or Uncomfortable After Meals?

Digestive discomfort, like bloating and gas, is incredibly common, especially among women 40 and over. But that doesn’t mean it’s "normal" or something you have to live with!

Frequent bloating or discomfort after meals can indicate that your digestive system isn’t breaking down food properly, which may lead to a build-up of gas and other digestive issues. This could stem from low stomach acid, enzyme imbalances, or even a disruption in the gut’s bacterial balance.

As we age, our stomach’s production of digestive enzymes and stomach acid naturally declines, making it harder to break down food.

But don’t worry - small, simple modifications like eating more slowly, adding fermented foods to your diet, or taking a gentle digestive enzyme supplement can make a big difference.

Takeaway Tip:

Notice how your body responds to certain foods and eating habits. If bloating is a persistent issue, it might be time to dive deeper into your gut health and figure out what your body truly needs.

2.  Do You Often Feel Tired or Experience Brain Fog?

Fatigue and brain fog are common complaints as we age, but they can also be signs of an unhealthy gut.

You might be wondering, “What does my gut have to do with my energy or focus?” A lot, actually!

Your gut is responsible for absorbing the nutrients from the food you eat - nutrients that fuel your body and brain. If your gut is struggling, you’re likely not getting the full benefit of these nutrients.

Poor gut health can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which can leave you feeling drained, mentally foggy, and unmotivated. Not to mention, your gut produces neurotransmitters like serotonin that help regulate mood, focus, and energy. If these aren’t balanced, your brain is likely to feel the impact.

Takeaway Tip:

If low energy or brain fog is becoming a daily hurdle, focus on eating a nutrient-dense diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats. And consider working with a health coach who can help you identify any gut-related barriers that could be draining your energy.

3.  Are You Struggling with Skin Issues Like Acne, Eczema, or Rosacea?

Skin and gut health are closely linked through the gut-skin axis.

Conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea may actually stem from imbalances in the gut, where inflammation or bacterial imbalances show up on your skin. Think of it as your skin sending a signal that something is out of balance internally.

When the gut lining becomes damaged - known as “leaky gut” - toxins can enter the bloodstream, causing inflammation that can show up on your skin. So, while topical treatments might help, addressing your gut health could be the missing link in finally achieving clearer, healthier skin.
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Takeaway Tip:

If skin issues have been a stubborn issue, think about shifting your focus to what’s happening on the inside. Simple dietary modifications, like reducing sugar and adding more fiber, can do wonders for both your gut and skin.

4.  Do You Crave Sugar and Processed Foods Regularly?

If you find yourself constantly reaching for sweets or processed snacks, your gut could be trying to tell you something.

Cravings are often a sign that your gut bacteria are out of balance. Certain “bad” bacteria in your gut actually thrive on sugar and processed foods, and they can release chemicals that make you crave more of what they need to survive.

As we enter midlife, balancing our hormones and blood sugar levels becomes more challenging, and having too much of the wrong kind of bacteria in your gut can throw those systems off even further.

By feeding your gut with nutrient-rich foods, you can start to shift your cravings and reduce those urges for sweets.

Takeaway Tip:

Start by adding more fiber-rich foods like vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to your diet, which feed the “good” bacteria in your gut and help curb cravings. It may also be helpful to focus on eating balanced meals to keep your blood sugar steady throughout the day.

5.  Are You Dealing with Weight Fluctuations or Difficulty Losing Weight?

For many women, weight management becomes a big focus in midlife. If you’ve been struggling with weight loss or you're experiencing unexplained weight gain, your gut could be playing a role.

The gut microbiome influences metabolism and energy balance, meaning an unhealthy gut can make weight management harder. When the bacteria in your gut are out of balance, it can lead to chronic inflammation, making it harder to lose weight and easier to gain it.

Additionally, if you’re not properly digesting your food, it can impact your ability to absorb nutrients, which can mess with your metabolism and energy levels.

Takeaway Tip:

Eating a diet rich in prebiotic and probiotic foods, such as asparagus, bananas, yogurt, and kimchi, can help support your gut’s natural balance and improve digestion, which may make weight loss easier over time.

So, How Did You Do?

If you found yourself saying “yes” to one or more of these questions, it could be a sign that your gut needs some extra love and attention.

The great news? Making even small modifications to your nutrition and daily habits can have a big impact on your gut health, energy, mood, and more.

Gut health isn’t just a trend; it’s a foundational part of your overall well-being, especially in midlife. And it’s never too late to start making changes that help you feel your best every day.

Ready to Give Your Gut the Care It Needs?

Understanding your gut is a journey, and sometimes, it’s hard to know where to start.

​That’s where I come in! Book a free consultation call with me to discuss how you can start optimizing your gut health and, in turn, transform your energy, mood, weight, and more.

We’ll dive into your unique concerns, and I’ll guide you through personalized steps you can take to start feeling more vibrant and balanced. Let’s make this the season of you—healthy, happy, and feeling great from the inside out!




Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or starting any supplements.
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