When it comes to healing your gut, the internet is full of advice—but not all of it is helpful. In fact, some of the most common “gut health tips” can actually make things worse, not better. Whether you’re struggling with bloating, irregular digestion, or just want to feel better in your body, it’s important to separate myth from fact.
In this post, we’ll break down some of the worst gut healing tips floating around and offer clear, practical alternatives that are actually backed by science and experience.
1. “Just Cut Out All Carbs”
Why it’s bad advice:
Carbs often get demonized when people experience bloating or digestive issues, but not all carbs are the enemy. In fact, many fiber-rich carbohydrates are essential for feeding beneficial gut bacteria. Cutting them out entirely can starve your microbiome and reduce microbial diversity.
What to do instead:
Focus on quality, not quantity. Choose complex carbs like oats, quinoa, sweet potatoes, legumes, and fibrous veggies. These prebiotic-rich foods support gut healing rather than hinder it.
2. “Take a Probiotic and You’re Good to Go”
Why it’s bad advice:
While probiotics can be helpful, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution—and they’re not a replacement for a healthy diet. Some people may even react poorly to certain strains, especially those with SIBO or histamine intolerance.
What to do instead:
Instead of relying solely on a supplement, aim to nourish your gut with a wide variety of fermented and fiber-rich foods. Consider working with a practitioner to identify the right strains for your body if supplements are needed.
3. “Just Do a Cleanse or Detox”
Why it’s bad advice:
Juice cleanses and detox teas are often marketed as quick fixes for gut issues. In reality, they can deprive your body of the nutrients it needs to heal and function properly. These approaches may also place additional stress on your system—especially the liver—while offering little support to your natural detox processes. If your elimination pathways (like the liver, kidneys, lymphatic system, and bowels) aren’t open and functioning well, pushing toxins out can actually backfire—recirculating them and creating a more toxic internal environment.
What to do instead:
Before attempting any kind of detox, it’s essential to prepare your body by supporting your elimination pathways and overall resilience. Nourish yourself with whole foods, stay hydrated, move regularly, and eat consistent, balanced meals to help your detox systems (like the liver and lymphatic system) function optimally. Most importantly, work with a qualified practitioner who can guide you through the process safely and effectively. Real detoxification and healing come from supporting your body over time—not from quick fixes or extreme restrictions.
4. “Eliminate Everything That Makes You Bloat”
Why it’s bad advice:
While it might feel good to temporarily avoid foods that trigger bloating, this avoidance can backfire. Over-restricting your diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies and further damage gut function.
What to do instead:
Identify food triggers with intention. Consider a short-term elimination protocol (ideally guided by a professional) followed by a careful reintroduction phase. The goal should be diversity, not long-term restriction.
Unable to identify trigger foods? Get a free consultation to see how I can help you identify and eliminate trigger foods with expert guidance.
5. “If It’s Natural, It Can’t Hurt”
Why it’s bad advice:
“Natural” doesn’t always mean safe—or right for your body. Herbs and supplements can interact with medications or exacerbate underlying conditions.
What to do instead:
Always treat supplements and herbs like medicine. Work with a qualified practitioner to find the right approach for your specific gut issues and body chemistry.
6. “You Can Heal Your Gut in a Week”
Why it’s bad advice:
Healing the gut takes time. It’s a layered process that involves restoring the microbiome, repairing the gut lining, calming inflammation, and often addressing stress, hormones, and lifestyle.
What to do instead:
Be patient and think long-term. A sustainable, curated healing plan may take several months, but the benefits—better digestion, improved immunity, clearer skin, more energy—are worth the investment.
Ready to Heal Your Gut the Right Way?
I will help you move past gut health myths and create a personalized plan that supports your body’s unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with bloating, fatigue, or food sensitivities, I’m here to help you heal from the inside out.
