From Bloating to IBS: Top 5 Signs Your Gut Needs a Reboot

Gut health is central to your overall well-being. Your gut isn’t just responsible for digestion—it influences a range of processes across your body, including your immune system, mental health, and hormone regulation, through what’s known as the gut-brain axis. Yet, many of us ignore the subtle signs that our digestive system is struggling, brushing off discomfort as “normal.”

In fact, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is an umbrella term that covers a variety of these symptoms, such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. While IBS is common, it’s important to know that these symptoms are not inevitable—and you don’t have to live with them. Addressing these signs early can help prevent them from spiralling into long-term issues.

Below are 5 common signs that your gut may need a reboot, along with potential reasons behind each.

1. Constipation: Passing Stools Less Than 3 Times a Week

Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass. Ideally, bowel movements should occur anywhere from three times per day to once every other day. Anything less than three times a week may suggest an imbalance.

Constipation can have many causes, including:

  • Low fiber intake: Without enough dietary fiber (from fruits, vegetables, or whole grains), stool becomes hard and difficult to pass.
  • Dehydration: Water helps keep stool soft and easy to move through the intestines. If you’re not drinking enough, stools can harden and slow down digestion.
  • Gut dysbiosis: An imbalance in the gut microbiome can affect peristalsis (the muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract).
  • Stress or inactivity: Chronic stress or a sedentary lifestyle can slow gut motility, making it harder for food to move through.

2. Painful or Strained Passing of Stools

Passing stools shouldn’t be painful. If it hurts or feels like you’re straining, this may indicate underlying issues with your digestive health. Infrequent bowel movements or hardened stools may force the body to push too hard, leading to discomfort.

Why are my stools difficult or painful to pass?

  • Low magnesium levels: Magnesium plays a role in relaxing muscles, including those involved in bowel movements. Deficiency can cause constipation and straining.
  • Fad diets gone wrong: Restrictive diets (like cutting carbs too drastically) can impact fiber intake, causing stool issues.
  • Not enough “bathroom time”: A rushed morning routine or avoiding the bathroom at work can result in holding it in longer than you should, making stools harder to pass.

3. Diarrhoea: Loose Stools More Than Once a Week

Frequent or sudden bouts of diarrhoea aren’t just inconvenient—they signal that something is disrupting the normal digestive process. Occasional diarrhoea from a stomach bug is normal, but if it happens weekly or more, it may indicate a deeper issue.

Some reasons you might experience diarrhoea: 

  • Gut dysbiosis: A disruption in gut bacteria can impair nutrient absorption, leading to looser stools.
  • Food intolerances or sensitivities: Some people react to certain foods (like lactose or gluten), which can trigger diarrhoea.
  • Excess caffeine or sugar substitutes: Both can have a laxative effect, especially when consumed in large amounts.

4. Persistent Bloating or Gas

Bloating is a sensation of fullness or tightness in the abdomen, often accompanied by excessive gas. While occasional bloating is normal, persistent bloating or gas could indicate a gut imbalance or digestive issue.

Why am I constantly bloated and gassy?

  • Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO): When bacteria grow in the wrong part of the gut, they ferment undigested food, producing gas and causing bloating.
  • Food intolerances: Some foods, such as dairy or legumes, are harder to digest and can trigger bloating in sensitive individuals.
  • Slowed digestion: A sluggish digestive system causes food to sit in the stomach longer, leading to fermentation and gas buildup.
  • Hormonal fluctuations: In women, hormonal changes around menstruation can slow digestion and cause bloating.

5. Abdominal Pain or Cramping

Recurring abdominal pain, especially when paired with other symptoms like bloating or irregular bowel movements, is often a red flag. This kind of discomfort isn’t something to brush off—your body is trying to tell you that something isn’t right.

Why do I get abdominal pain or cramping?

  • IBS or inflammation: Pain is common in IBS and inflammatory bowel diseases due to irregular muscle contractions or inflammation in the gut lining.
  • Gas buildup: Excessive gas from poor digestion or fermentation can stretch the intestines, leading to cramping.
  • Food sensitivities: Certain foods can irritate the gut lining or cause spasms in the intestines, leading to pain.
  • Stress and anxiety: The gut and brain are closely connected, so emotional stress can manifest as physical gut pain.

Feel Better, Faster with the 35-Day GUT REBOOT

You don’t have to live with bloating, irregular bowel movements, or gut discomfort—it’s your body’s way of telling you it’s time for a change. If these symptoms sound familiar, it’s a sign that your digestive system is out of balance.

The 35-Day GUT REBOOT program is designed to help you take control of your gut health with:
  • Tailored nutrition guidance to identify and remove trigger foods
  • Digestive-friendly meal plans to restore balance and boost energy
  • One-on-one consultations to answer your questions and track your progress
  • Ongoing support and accountability so you stay on track every step of the way

Imagine fewer bloated days, better energy, and a smoother digestive routine—without the trial and error. TNW’s proven signature framework will guide you toward long-term gut harmony and sustainable habits.


Ready for a Reboot?

Stop guessing and start feeling your best. The 35-Day GUT REBOOT program is designed to help you feel your best—without the guesswork. Join today and take the first step toward long-term digestive health!

BOOK HERE.

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