Before blaming stress, check these warning signs coming from your gut.
Unexplained fatigue, constant exhaustion, and low energy aren’t always signs of burnout or stress. In many cases, the cause may lie in digestive health. Experts emphasize the strong connection between the gut and the brain—when the digestive system isn’t functioning properly, deep and persistent fatigue can follow.
The digestive system: the foundation of our energy
Gretchen Evans, an interventional gastroenterologist, explains that the digestive system extends from the mouth to the anus and includes several complex organs. “It is the foundation of our energy,” she says. The stomach and intestines process and absorb nutrients, while the gut flora—trillions of bacteria known as the microbiome—plays a key role in energy production.
When the microbiome is balanced, digestion works efficiently, immunity is stronger, and mental well-being improves. When there’s imbalance (dysbiosis), the risk of illness and fatigue increases.
Most of the microbiome forms early in life
Organs such as the liver and pancreas support energy production by regulating metabolism, enzymes, and detoxification. According to Dr. Evans, a healthy microbiome works in harmony with digestion and helps protect the gut from harmful substances.
“We’ve only scratched the surface of how complex the microbiome really is,” she notes. “Many products promise to ‘fix’ it, but most of the microbiome forms around birth.”
That said, lifestyle still matters.
How to improve gut health and boost energy
You can support your digestive system with simple daily habits:
Eat vegetables every day, especially leafy greens
Avoid sugary drinks (including juices) and artificial sweeteners
Limit processed foods, excess sugar, and animal fats
Choose lean proteins and healthy fats like olive oil and avocado
Include fermented foods (Greek yogurt, sauerkraut), plus probiotics and prebiotics
Use antibiotics only when medically necessary
Stay physically active, hydrated, and manage stress (meditation, deep breathing)
Dr. Evans also highlights the importance of digestive rest:
“Eating constantly is a stressor for the digestive system. Give it more than four hours between meals so it can recover—just like sleep restores the brain.”
Fatigue linked to iron or vitamin B12 deficiency
Persistent tiredness may also be caused by low levels of iron, magnesium, or vitamin B12. Blood tests and medical consultation are recommended before starting supplements.
“These strategies are more reliable than randomly taking probiotics,” Dr. Evans says. “Good bacteria won’t survive if your basic diet is poor.”
Three common digestive issues that drain energy
If fatigue comes with digestive symptoms, medical evaluation is important. Common causes include:
1. Helicobacter pylori infection
This bacterium can cause stomach pain and impair absorption of nutrients like iron. It’s a leading cause of gastritis and ulcers and spreads through contaminated food, water, or close contact. Testing and treatment are usually straightforward.
2. Fatty liver disease (steatosis)
The liver regulates energy and detoxification. When excess fat accumulates (more than 5% of liver tissue), energy levels drop and long-term damage—including cirrhosis—may occur.
3. Chronic constipation
Defined as fewer than three bowel movements per week, often with bloating, cramps, discomfort, and fatigue. Increasing fiber, water intake, and physical activity helps; persistent cases require medical advice.
When to seek urgent medical care
Immediate evaluation is needed if fatigue is accompanied by:
Yellowing of skin or eyes
Nighttime bowel movements
Difficulty swallowing or food sticking in the chest
Prolonged diarrhea
Black or bloody stools with a metallic smell
Vomiting blood
Unexplained weight loss or nutrient deficiencies
Dr. Evans also advises adults over 45—especially those with a family history of colorectal cancer—to discuss colonoscopy screening, as early detection significantly improves outcomes.
Bottom line:
If exhaustion doesn’t improve with rest, your digestive system may be the hidden culprit. Supporting gut health can restore energy, strengthen immunity, and improve overall well-being.
