Signs Your Gut Microbiome is Out of Whack (And How to Fix It)

43. A Sudden Aversion to Certain Foods

Beyond general food intolerances, an imbalanced gut can manifest as a sudden, strong aversion to specific foods you used to enjoy. Your gut microbes are masters of communication, and they send signals to the brain that can influence your food preferences. When your microbiome is out of balance, the "bad" bacteria may generate byproducts that make certain foods—especially complex carbohydrates, specific proteins, or even healthy fats—smell or taste unappealing to you. This isn't just a matter of disliking a flavor; it's your body's way of signaling that something in your gut is struggling to process that food.

44. Reduced Cold Tolerance

If you feel cold more often than others, especially in your hands and feet, your gut could be the culprit. A healthy microbiome is crucial for efficiently absorbing key minerals like iron, which is vital for red blood cell production and oxygen transport throughout the body. When gut health is compromised, your body may struggle to absorb iron, leading to a state of functional anemia that leaves you feeling cold. A healthy gut also helps regulate metabolism, which generates internal heat. So, that chilly sensation could be a quiet sign that your gut is running on low power.