Are Your Symptoms Actually a Sign of Poor Digestion? Here's How to Tell
struggling with bloating, fatigue, skin issues, or brain fog? you might think these symptoms have nothing to do with your digestion—but they often do. many people don’t realize that poor digestion can show up in ways that go far beyond the gut.
how digestion actually works
digestion isn’t just about your stomach—it’s a full-body process that starts the moment you eat. your body needs enough stomach acid + bile to break food down, absorb nutrients + get rid of waste properly.
if these steps aren’t happening efficiently, your whole system feels it.
stomach acid: your first line of defense
stomach acid (aka hydrochloric acid) is crucial for:
breaking down protein
killing harmful bacteria in food
signaling the rest of your digestive system to get to work
low stomach acid can lead to:
bloating after meals
burping or reflux
undigested food in stool
nutrient deficiencies (especially B12 + iron)
bile: the key to fat digestion
bile is made in the liver + stored in the gallbladder. it’s released when you eat, especially if you’re eating fats.
bile helps:
emulsify fats (so your body can absorb them)
absorb vitamins A, D, E + K
move waste and toxins out of the body
signs your bile might be sluggish:
greasy or pale stools
feeling heavy or nauseous after fatty meals
constipation or irregular bowel movements
symptoms that could point to poor digestion
poor digestion doesn’t always look like an upset stomach. you might notice:
skin flare-ups (like acne or rashes)
hormonal imbalances
fatigue after meals
mood swings or brain fog
food sensitivities or bloating
all of these can stem from poor nutrient absorption + slow detox—two things that happen when digestion isn’t working at its best.
so what can you do?
you don’t have to live with these symptoms. start by supporting your digestion:
eat slowly , without distractions + chew your food well
include bitter foods to stimulate stomach acid and bile
drink enough water—but not too much during meals
don’t skip healthy fats—they trigger bile release
consider gut-healing practices + work with a practitioner if needed
the bottom line
if you're struggling with unexplained symptoms, your digestion is worth a closer look.
by supporting stomach acid + bile flow, you’ll help your gut—+ the rest of your body—feel more balanced + energized.