Chronic symptoms: Can they be caused by Gut Health Issues?
- Terri Seydel
- Oct 28, 2024
- 4 min read
Summary: Think you know what it takes to be healthy? So did I—until a sudden health crisis turned everything I thought I knew upside down. What I learned on my journey was eye-opening: our gut health holds the key to so much more than just digestion. From mysterious allergic reactions to persistent brain fog and fatigue, I discovered how a damaged gut biome was at the root of my issues—and how healing it transformed my health in ways I never imagined. If you’ve been struggling with unexplained symptoms and endless doctor visits, this story might just give you the inspiration and insights you’ve been searching for. Dive in, and let’s talk about why your gut could be the missing piece to your wellness puzzle.
My Story
Until last year, I thought I had a solid grasp on what it takes to remain healthy. But after a sudden and mysterious health issue, I realized I’d barely scratched the surface of what I needed to know to maintain my health and truly thrive.
My symptoms grew rapidly over the course of a few weeks. In fact, my immune system went into an extreme downward spiral, ultimately causing a trip to the ER. Doctors couldn’t figure out what was happening. Since my symptoms presented as extreme allergic reactions, I turned to my immunologist for answers. He was empathetic and knowledgeable but couldn’t answer my burning question: “How do I heal my immune system?” (A concept that isn’t yet taught in conventional medicine.)
Still, he gave me a few insightful clues—enough to set me off on my own quest to recover and rebuild my health. In my search, I discovered some incredible functional medicine doctors who have uncovered groundbreaking insights into healing the immune system. They explain how our body’s systems are intricately connected—something I’d never really thought about. Suddenly, a light bulb went off: the dots between all my seemingly unrelated symptoms started to connect.
The Clue that Started My Wellness Transformation
Central to my recovery was one crucial aspect: the healing and strengthening of my gut. I learned that over 70% of our immune system resides in the gut. Who knew? I certainly didn’t. Unbeknownst to me, my gut biome had been wrecked by toxins, medications, and less-than-optimal daily nutrition. In short, my chronic symptoms were caused by gut health issues.
So, I immersed myself in learning how to heal my gut, resolve my chronic symptoms, and begin adopting new habits. And the results? Shocking, to say the least. The hardest part was playing detective to identify the culprits, but once I pinpointed what was causing harm, I made changes that transformed everything. (Be sure to Subscribe to my list to follow my story and learn more!)
My gut health was causing chronic symptoms and compromising my well-being ... and I had absolutely no idea!
Within months, I not only regained my health—I felt better than I had in years. My chronic symptoms subsided, my hair and skin looked healthier, the aches and pains melted away, my energy returned, and that stubborn brain fog finally lifted. And here’s the kicker: I haven’t had a single cold or headache since I started this new way of caring for myself. I’m completely amazed by the power of gut health.
Wellness Journey Inspired New Purpose
During my journey, I discovered that I wasn’t alone. I met countless people with similar chronic symptoms, all on their own quests for answers. As my health improved, I developed a strong desire to help others in their wellness pursuits. That’s how this website was born. I’m passionate about sharing what I have learned and continue to learn, along with resources that I find highly inspiring and valuable. I’m also working on a book I hope to publish in 2025. My hope is that others will be inspired to take control of their own wellness and regain their well-being too!
We’re all unique and have different wellness needs. My goal isn’t to offer a one-size-fits-all solution or make specific recommendations. Instead, I want to encourage you to be your own advocate and persevere in your pursuit of wellness. There are so many aspects of our well-being, and there’s a lot within your control that you can work on to build the strongest, most vibrant version of yourself. (I'll be covering many of those topics in my future posts.)
Tips to Be Your Own Advocate in Searching for Wellness Answers
If you’re struggling with unexplained symptoms, always start with your doctor so they can test and rule out the most common causes. Be sure to keep the conversation going with your doctors. They are an essential part of your wellness plan and can guide you through any medical decisions you need to make.
Self-educate so you can Self-advocate. Check out these resources that have helped me; they might spark ideas on where you can find the solutions you need.
Whole You True You Resource Hub: Links to books and tools that I value, use, and recommend.
Whole You True You Pinterest Hub: I actively collect articles and sources that educate and inform my Wellness Journey. Please Search, Pin, & Share: Let's all support each other in our Wellness Journey!
Subscribe to follow my story. Next up: I'll be sharing the things I did and changes I made to repair my immune system and dramatically improve my health.
Keep a Symptom journal to help identify trends and triggers. (I'll be launching a book about this in 2025 - Stay Tuned!)
If you suspect your Symptoms may be gut health-related, see a Licensed Registered Nutritionist and request GI MAP, Vitamin Deficiency, and food sensitivity testing.
Insurance Tip: Check your healthcare insurance to see if you have access to 'Nutrition Therapy'. Mine covered 5 paid visits but some of the testing was out of pocket. For me: It was well worth it!
Wellness is a lifelong journey—let’s navigate it together.
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