Five Signs Your Gut Microbiome May Be Out of Balance

Your gut microbiome-the community of trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in your digestive tract-plays a crucial role in your overall health. From digestion and immunity to mental clarity and metabolism, a healthy gut is foundational to feeling your best.

But what happens when this delicate balance is disrupted?

An imbalanced gut microbiome-known as dysbiosis-can lead to a wide range of symptoms. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 signs your gut health may be compromised, how to recognise them early, and how a gut microbiome test can help you restore balance.

1. Frequent Bloating, Gas, or Digestive Discomfort

If you’re regularly feeling bloated, gassy, or uncomfortable after meals, your digestive microbiome may be out of sync.

Imbalances in gut bacteria can cause:

• Poor breakdown of food
• Increased fermentation in the gut
• Excess gas production and abdominal pressure

These are classic symptoms of gut dysbiosis and may be linked to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or low levels of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

2. Persistent Fatigue or Low Energy

Your gut bacteria help regulate energy production through nutrient absorption and mitochondrial support. When your microbiome is disrupted, this process can break down-leaving you feeling drained, foggy, and unmotivated.

Dysbiosis can impair:

• Iron and B-vitamin absorption
• Metabolic efficiency
• Thyroid and adrenal function

If you’re always tired despite good sleep and a healthy diet, your gut flora could be to blame.

3. Skin Issues Like Acne, Eczema, or Rosacea

The gut-skin axis is a powerful communication system between your digestive tract and your skin. Inflammation in the gut often shows up as irritation on the skin.

Research links gut imbalances to:

• Acne and breakouts
• Eczema flare-ups
• Rosacea and redness
• Dry, flaky, or inflamed skin

Testing your gut microbiome can reveal hidden inflammation and help you target the root cause of skin issues from within.

4. Frequent Illnesses or Poor Immune Function

Did you know that 70% of your immune system is located in your gut?

A healthy gut microbiome helps:

• Regulate immune responses
• Produce antimicrobial peptides
• Block harmful pathogens
• Manage inflammation

When your gut bacteria are out of balance, you may notice:

• Frequent colds or infections
• Slow healing
• Increased food sensitivities
• Autoimmune flare-ups

Strengthening your gut can directly improve immune resilience.

5. Mood Changes, Anxiety, or Brain Fog

Your gut and brain are deeply connected through the gut–brain axis. In fact, your gut produces up to 90% of your body’s serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter.

Microbiome imbalances can contribute to:

• Anxiety and stress sensitivity
• Low mood and depression
• Brain fog and poor memory
• Sleep disturbances

Improving gut health through testing and personalised lifestyle changes can positively impact mental clarity and emotional wellbeing.

What Causes Gut Microbiome Imbalance?

Your gut can fall out of balance due to:

• Antibiotic use
• Poor diet (high in sugar or processed foods)
• Chronic stress
• Lack of dietary fibre
• Low microbial diversity
• Infections or overgrowths

Left untreated, dysbiosis can contribute to long-term health risks including IBS, autoimmune disorders, and metabolic conditions.

How a Gut Microbiome Test Can Help

A comprehensive gut health test (like Phenome Longevity’s at-home kit) analyses your microbial composition, identifies imbalances, and provides actionable insights on how to restore harmony.

Benefits include:

• Discovering which bacteria dominate your gut
• Detecting markers of inflammation, permeability, and digestion
• Personalised recommendations for diet, probiotics, and supplements
• Prevention-focused care before symptoms worsen

Reclaim Your Gut Health Today

If you’re experiencing any of these five signs, your gut microbiome may be out of balance. Rather than guessing, you can take a science-backed, personalised approach to healing.

At Phenome Longevity, our gut microbiome testing service helps you identify the root causes of discomfort and empowers you with tailored guidance to feel your best-inside and out.