3 Types of Gut Dysbiosis: Why your gut health matters

Having a healthy gut is important for your overall well-being. In our gut, trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms live and contribute to a healthy digestive system. Besides helping digestion and immunity, these microorganisms also affect gut health and mood. 

Dysbiosis, conversely, results from imbalances in the gut microbiota and can significantly impact our well-being. The key to achieving a healthy gut microbiota is intention, effort, and sometimes guidance from a health professional.

In this article, we’ll explore how gut dysbiosis manifests, its symptoms, its connections to several health conditions, and more.

Understanding Dysbiosis:

Trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes reside in the gut microbiome. These microorganisms affect digestion, immunity, and mood. During dysbiosis, harmful bacteria overtake beneficial bacteria in the gut, causing an imbalance in the growth of microorganisms. 

In my previous post, “Surprising Causes of Weight Gain After WLS- Dysbiosis” on dysbiosis, I explained it in a simplified way as follows:

The gut is bursting with trillions of microbes. Various bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites live harmoniously together. To illustrate, imagine your intestines as a beautiful garden with abundant vegetables and flowers. Eventually, the weeds creep in and get out of control without proper maintenance. We call these weeds dysbiosis.

These “Weeds or Dysbiosis” may or may not have been caused by you. They are often caused by c-section births, antibiotics, physical and psychological stress, diet, radiation, and altered gastrointestinal movements.

As a result, there are either too few good or too many bad bacteria or too many bacteria residing in the wrong place.

There are three main types of gut dysbiosis:

• Insufficiency dysbiosis
• Inflammatory dysbiosis
• Digestive dysfunction

INSUFFICIENCY DYSBIOSIS 

The insufficiency dysbiosis is characterized by a low level of beneficial bacteria. Beneficial bacteria play a crucial role in supporting healthy immune and intestinal function. Different factors can cause this type of dysbiosis, such as stress, medications, poor diet, and chronic antibiotic use. 

Having insufficient levels of beneficial bacteria can increase the risk of intestinal infections, increase intestinal permeability, decrease protective factors like secretory IgA, and increase inflammation. 

Insufficient dysbiosis has also been proven to contribute to obesity and metabolic disturbances by altering the gut microbiome. 

Furthermore, individuals with insufficiency dysbiosis are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, further indicating the need for balanced gut microbiota to maintain metabolic health.

INFLAMMATORY DYSBIOSIS 

Inflammatory dysbiosis is characterized by a moderate or high level of pathogens, normal microbes, and opportunistic microbes that create inflammation and increase intestinal permeability. 

It has been observed that many of the pro-inflammatory microbes are gram-negative bacteria in the Proteobacteria phylum that produce lipopolysaccharides (LPS) that can be extremely potent in stimulating the immune system to produce inflammation. 

Dysbiosis of this type is associated with chronic inflammation throughout the body, which can result in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). This chronic condition can greatly affect an individual’s overall health.

It has been demonstrated that individuals with IBD appear to have alterations in their gut microbiome, supporting the notion that dysbiosis contributes to the pathogenesis of these inflammatory conditions. 

Additionally, emerging research suggests that inflammatory dysbiosis may contribute to neurological disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), illustrating the intricate link between gut health and brain function.

DIGESTIVE DYSFUNCTION DYSBIOSIS 

A common cause of dysbiosis associated with digestive dysfunction is hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid), insufficient bile acids, inadequate digestion (pancreatic insufficiency or brush border enzyme deficiency), reduced absorption, and altered gastrointestinal motility. Microbiome imbalances can result from altered digestion and motility, leading to the overgrowth of certain species, such as H. pylori. 

Bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea are some symptoms of this dysbiosis. In achieving optimal gut health, digestive dysfunction dysbiosis remains an important factor to address, even though it does not have the same level of study as other dysbiosis. 

Symptoms of Dysbiosis

The symptoms of all three types can overlap, but the most common signs are:

• Indigestion
• Stomach upset after eating
• Heartburn, reflux, GERD
• Bloating
• Slow digestion
• Gas
• Lower belly pains
• Increased depression & anxiety
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Hormone imbalances
• Autoimmune disease
• Joint pain
• Weight gain or weight loss resistance

Although dysbiosis symptoms can manifest as digestion distress, they can also be mild and only occur occasionally, not always causing noticeable symptoms.

Balanced Gut Microbiome: Why You Need It

A healthy gut microbiome depends on a balanced microbiome. It is possible to develop gut dysbiosis when the delicate ecosystem of microorganisms in our gut becomes unbalanced. 

Balanced gut microbiota is critical in many aspects of our bodies functioning, including digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and mental health. Making informed choices to nurture and support our gut health requires understanding the significance of balanced gut dysbiosis.

Linkage of Gut Dysbiosis with other disorders

Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: 

We need a balanced gut microbiome to digest food properly and absorb nutrients efficiently. Complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are broken down by beneficial bacteria, which ensures nutrients are released. 

Furthermore, they aid in producing enzymes that help in nutrient absorption. Dysbiosis can impair digestion, resulting in symptoms including bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements. Promoting a balanced gut dysbiosis enhances our body’s ability to extract nutrients and support optimal digestion.

One study found that the gut microbiome influences metabolic health. In addition, gut dysbiosis has been linked to metabolic conditions that include type 2 diabetes and obesity. 

Immune Function: 

Did you know that our gut also contains a significant portion of our immune system? In order to maintain a robust immune response, a balanced gut microbiome is crucial. Our gut bacteria help regulate and train our immune systems, ensuring a balanced response to both harmless and harmful substances. 

In contrast, dysbiosis can lead to immune dysregulation, making us more susceptible to infections, allergies, and autoimmune diseases. Maintaining a healthy gut dysbiosis strengthens the immune system’s ability to fortify itself against external threats while minimizing unnecessary immune reactions.

A study found that the gut microbiome affects immunity. According to the study, gut dysbiosis may also contribute to allergies, asthma, and autoimmune diseases. 

Mental Health and Mood: 

Mental health relies on the gut-brain axis, which communicates bidirectionally with the gut and brain. There is evidence that a healthy gut microbiome may influence the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which regulate mood, emotions, and stress responses. Depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and even cognitive decline are linked to imbalances in gut bacteria. A healthy gut-brain axis is promoted by promoting a balanced gut dysbiosis.

Several studies found that gut microbiomes play an important role in neurological health. These studies linked gut dysbiosis to disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurological illnesses. 

Another study found that depression affects the gut microbiome differently than it does for people without depression. Additionally, gut dysbiosis may contribute to depression. 

Furthermore, another study found that Alzheimer’s patients have a different gut microbiome that showed gut dysbiosis may contribute to Alzheimer’s disease development. 

Inflammation and Chronic Diseases: 

Many chronic diseases are rooted in chronic inflammation, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Balanced gut microbiomes prevent excessive immune activation and systemic inflammation by maintaining low-grade inflammation. 

Deficiencies in this delicate balance can promote inflammation, which contributes to chronic disease progression and development. Reducing the risk of chronic inflammation and its complications is possible by striving for a balanced gut dysbiosis.

One study showed that people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have different gut microbiomes than those without the disease. Additionally, gut dysbiosis could contribute to IBD development. 

Weight Management: 

Health and aesthetics go hand in hand when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity and metabolic disorders have been associate with dysbiosis in the gut microbiome. In addition to regulating energy metabolism and appetite, beneficial bacteria also aid in fat storage. 

Dysbiosis can lead to an imbalance in these processes, potentially contributing to weight gain and metabolic disturbances. A balanced gut dysbiosis supports weight management efforts by promoting healthy metabolism and optimal nutrient utilization.

Studies found that a healthy-weight person has a different gut microbiome than an obese person. In addition, these studies showed that gut dysbiosis may contribute to obesity development. 

Another study found that gut dysbiosis may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes and other metabolic disorders. 

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and gut dysbiosis

A study review concluded that gut dysbiosis can be used to prevent and treat NAFLD. They suggest promoting gut health, a healthy diet, and exercising can prevent and treat NAFLD.

A few of the study’s findings are as follows:

NAFLD patients have different gut bacteria compositions than people without the disease.

According to the study, NAFLD patients have higher levels of pro-inflammatory molecules in their gut.

In NAFLD patients, anti-inflammatory molecules in the gut are lower.

In the study, impaired liver function was found among those with NAFLD.

According to the study’s findings, NAFLD development and progression are significantly influenced by gut dysbiosis. Preventing and treating NAFLD may be possible through interventions that promote gut health.

Sleep disorders and Gut dysbiosis

The number of adults affected by sleep disorders is up to 35% worldwide. One study found that gut dysbiosis is strongly associated with sleep disorders. Additionally, gut dysbiosis made sleep disorders more difficult to treat and worsened their severity.

A few additional details from the study are as follows:

In the study,  that people with sleep disorders have different gut bacterial compositions.

There is a higher level of pro-inflammatory molecules in the gut of people with sleep disorders.

There are lower levels of anti-inflammatory molecules in the gut of people who suffer from sleep disorders.

According to the study, people with sleep disorders have impaired gut function due to their sleep disorders.

The study’s findings suggest that there is a significant role for sleep disorders as a leading factor in the development and progression of gut dysbiosis. Sleep-promoting interventions may enhance the prevention and treatment of gut dysbiosis.

Gut Dysbiosis and Autism Spectrum Disorder 

One study found that autistic children have a different gut microbiome than children without autism. Furthermore, gut dysbiosis may contribute to the development of autism spectrum disorders. 

Gut Microbiota and Cardiometabolic Health 

In addition, studies found that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in cardiometabolic health. According to the study, gut dysbiosis may play a role in developing heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. 

Gut Microbiota and Cancer 

According to several studies, the gut microbiome plays a significant role in cancer development. Gut dysbiosis may contribute to the development of colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and other cancers. 

Tips for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome

Following are some tips for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome include: 

• Consume a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 
• Consume fewer processed foods, fewer sugary drinks, and less red meat. 
• Get regular exercise. 
• Get enough sleep. 
• Manage stress levels. 
• Take probiotics and prebiotics. 

Importance of a Practitioner for Gut Dysbiosis Healing

Gut dysbiosis is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive and personalized approach to achieve healing and restore balance. Although there are general guidelines and lifestyle changes that can support gut health, the guidance of an experienced healthcare professional is crucial to navigating the complexities of gut dysbiosis. 

Whenever you are dealing with gut dysbiosis, it is important to seek the expertise of a practitioner. Working with someone like you can be very beneficial when trying to overcome gut dysbiosis and in the healing process.

Accurate Diagnosis and Assessment: 

A practitioner specializing in gut health can diagnose gut dysbiosis accurately by evaluating symptoms, medical history, and diagnostic tests. Using this information, they can differentiate between the different types of gut and identify any underlying conditions or contributing factors. As a result of this accurate assessment, a treatment plan can be customize to fit the individual’s needs.

Personalized Treatment Approach: 

As everyone’s gut is unique, a practitioner can customize a plan of treatment based on many factors, such as your medical history, lifestyle, and dietary preferences, to meet your needs.

Comprehensive Treatment Strategies: 

In addition to dietary changes, gut dysbiosis must be address multifaceted. It is possible to modify your diet, take supplements, adjust your lifestyle, and use other therapies with the guidance of a practitioner.

Understanding Underlying Connections: 

There is a connection between gut dysbiosis and other health conditions. You can discuss these connections with your practitioner to understand how gut dysbiosis can contribute to metabolic health issues, sleep disturbances, blood sugar regulation, and fatty liver problems.

Expert Guidance for Rebuilding and Maintenance: 

The importance of maintaining balance in the gut microbiome and re-establishing a healthy gut microbiome cannot be overstate.

A practitioner can guide you through the various phases of healing, from repairing and rebalancing the gut to implementing long-term maintenance strategies. They can provide education, monitor your progress, offer accountability, and help you navigate any challenges that may arise along the way.

With the help of a practitioner, you are assure of an accurate assessment, personalized treatment, comprehensive strategies, and expert guidance for long-term gut health.

Final thoughts

Maintaining a healthy and vibrant gut dysbiosis is crucial to living a long and healthy life. A balanced gut microbiome affects everything from digestion and nutrient absorption to immune function, mental health, inflammation regulation, and weight management. 

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and targeted interventions are all necessary to maintain a balanced gut microbiota. However, lifestyle changes do not replace medical advice. A healthcare practitioner like me can help you if you want personalized guidance and treatment.