FIR Episode 9: Can your fatigue be linked to your digestive system?

In this Free and Inspired radio episode, we will examine how your digestive system can worsen your fatigue. 

The microbiome is as unique as your fingerprint. We have a lot to learn, but we know that the proportions of the different species of bacteria in your digestion play a huge role in how you’re feeling.

Especially in fatigue or your sense of mental and physical competency. 

Are you feeling tired and foggy simultaneously as your IBS and digestive symptoms?

“Over 60 per cent of people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) reported fatigue in combination with their other symptoms. A significant difference to controls. Fatigue ranks as the third most common symptom after frequent bowel movements and abdominal pain in IBS.”

Philip explores how the connection between fatigue and the digestive system is a two-way street. 

For example, studies show more severe mental health conditions and chronic fatigue link to gut dysbiosis. In contrast, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is connected to leaky gut or intestinal permeability. Studies also show correction of leaky gut improves symptoms within CFS.

Later in the episode, Philip also looks at how probiotics need to be specific when fatigue is a problem.

This connection isn’t as cut and dry as we’d like, but some probiotics create a form of lactic acid called D-lactic acid. D-lactic acid can have an undesirable change on the balance of the microbiome, making chronic fatigue worse.

To finish, Philip outlines the testing and other steps you can take if you feel that your digestive symptoms and fatigue are connected.

Enjoy!