Gut Health Alarms: Subtle Signs Your Digestion Is in Trouble

37. Irregular Menstrual Cycles or Severe PMS

For women, persistent menstrual irregularities or unusually severe PMS symptoms can be tied to gut health. As noted in item #22, the gut microbiome helps regulate hormone levels by breaking down and eliminating excess estrogen. When the gut is in distress, it fails to clear these hormones efficiently, leading to hormonal dominance or erratic levels. This imbalance can manifest as changes in cycle length, heavy bleeding, or intense mood and physical symptoms associated with PMS, suggesting the gut is no longer performing its essential hormone-recycling function correctly.

38. Unexplained Dental Cavities or Enamel Erosion

Recurring dental issues, even with good oral hygiene, can be a surprising indicator of underlying gut and digestive problems, specifically silent reflux. While classic reflux causes heartburn, silent reflux (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux or LPR) sends small amounts of stomach acid up the esophagus, often during the night, eroding tooth enamel and leading to frequent cavities or sensitivity near the gumline. This dental damage is a physical sign that acid regulation in the stomach and gut is dysfunctional, creating chronic, sub-symptomatic exposure to digestive acid.