5 Mistakes to Avoid on Your Gut Health Journey

Embarking on a gut health journey is the ultimate step toward feeling more vibrant, shedding stubborn belly fat, and regaining mental clarity.

Your gut does more than just digest food - it’s your body’s “second brain,” and its health influences almost every aspect of how you feel daily. A healthy gut is linked to countless benefits, including:

• Balanced hormones for better mood and energy.

• A flatter belly and reduced bloating.

• Improved focus, memory, and concentration.

  
  

However, navigating the complexities of gut health on your own can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to get lost in a sea of google information, try the latest trends, and unknowingly make mistakes that slow your progress.

To help you stay on track, let’s dive into the 5 mistakes you should avoid on your gut health journey and how to set yourself up for lasting success.

Inside my “Radiant Renewal: A 12-Week Menopause Transformation” program, I provide personalized guidance to help you nourish your gut, balance your hormones, and feel more energized and confident in your skin. With tailored nutrition strategies and ongoing support, you’ll experience results that last far beyond the program.

Learn more about 12-Week Menopause Transformation here.

Mistake #1: Relying Too Much on Over-the-Counter Probiotics

One of the most common mistakes is believing that any probiotic will fix your gut issues. The truth is, not all probiotics are created equal, and the wrong choice may not address your specific needs.

Why does this happen? Probiotics are heavily marketed, and it’s easy to think that taking one is a one-size-fits-all solution. But your gut is incredibly unique, like a fingerprint. Different strains of probiotics serve different purposes - for example, some support digestion, while others may help with immunity or mood.

For example, a past client struggled with bloating despite taking a popular probiotic. When we worked together, I discovered she needed a specific strain to address small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). After adjusting her supplement and adding gut-healing foods like fermented veggies and bone broth, her bloating disappeared within weeks.

Unfortunately, relying on the wrong probiotic can lead to frustration, bloating, or even worsening symptoms. Instead, focus on:

• Getting a gut health evaluation to determine what strains you need.

• Discover tools to reduce stress, improve sleep and mood, which can impact your gut.

• Incorporating natural probiotic-rich foods like sauerkraut, kefir, and yogurt.

• Avoiding cheap, generic probiotics with filler ingredients.

  
  

Mistake #2: Consuming “Healthy” Foods Loaded with Hidden Sugars

Another mistake I see is unknowingly eating foods marketed as “healthy” that are actually loaded with sugar. From flavored yogurts to granola bars, these hidden sugars can wreak havoc on your gut microbiome.

Why is this a problem? Sugar feeds the bad bacteria in your gut, allowing them to overpopulate and throw off your gut balance. This can lead to increased cravings, brain fog, and even stubborn belly fat.

One of my clients, thought she was making a healthy choice by eating a popular yogurt brand for breakfast. When we reviewed the label, we found it had 18 grams of added sugar per serving! We swapped it for plain, unsweetened organic Greek yogurt with fresh fruit, and within two weeks, her cravings decreased, and her energy skyrocketed.

Be mindful of these common culprits:

• Flavored yogurts and pre-made smoothies.

• “Healthy” snacks like granola bars and protein bars.

• Processed condiments like ketchup or “low-fat” salad dressings.

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Mistake #3: Relying on “Detox” Products Instead of Real Foods

The idea of a quick detox can be tempting, especially if you’re feeling bloated or sluggish. However, over-the-counter detox teas, pills, and cleanses often do more harm than good.

Why? These products can strip your gut of good bacteria and leave you dehydrated or nutrient-deficient. Your body is already equipped with detox organs like your skin, lymph, liver, kidneys, lungs and gut. They just need the right support to do their job effectively.

One client came to me after trying a popular detox tea for two weeks. She lost a few pounds initially but ended up feeling fatigued and constipated afterward. We refocused her efforts on nourishing her body with natural detoxifiers like leafy greens, beets, and plenty of water. Her energy returned, and her digestion improved without the harsh effects of the detox tea.

Instead of relying on detox products, try this:

• Read labels, and focus on buying non-toxic foods and products. (Check out the EWG  here.)

• Add cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale to meals to support liver.

• Stay well hydrated with water infused with cucumber or mint, to support excretion of toxins.

• Get your sweat on with a brisk 30 min walk to release toxins through skin.

  
  

Mistake #4: Skipping Fiber-Rich Foods

Fiber is essential for gut health, but many women unknowingly cut it out when following restrictive diets like low-carb or keto plans.

Why does fiber matter? It feeds the good bacteria in your gut, supports regular digestion, and helps regulate blood sugar levels - critical for menopausal women dealing with belly fat and energy crashes.

For example, one of my clients, was following a low-carb diet to try to lose weight in menopause, but felt constipated and low-energy. When we added fiber-rich foods like chia seeds, berries, and leafy greens back into her meals, her digestion improved dramatically, and she felt lighter and more energetic.

Here are simple ways to add more fiber to your diet:

• Sprinkle chia or flaxseeds onto your yogurt or smoothie.

• Swap white rice for quinoa or farro.

• Snack on raw veggies like carrots or celery with hummus.

• Add beans to salads, soups, stews, or even eggs.

  
  

Mistake #5: Trying to DIY Gut Health Without Professional Guidance

One of the biggest mistakes midlife women make is thinking they can handle gut health entirely on their own. While it’s great to be proactive, gut health is complex, and without expert guidance, it’s easy to miss key factors like food sensitivities, stress, or hormonal imbalances.

Why is this so common? Online advice often simplifies gut health into “just take a probiotic” or “cut out gluten,” but the reality is that everyone’s gut is different. Without personalized strategies, you might end up frustrated by slow progress or worsening symptoms.

Here’s why working with a professional matters:

• They can help you identify and address the root causes of your symptoms.

• They provide accountability and tailored strategies.

• They save you time and energy by avoiding trial-and-error approaches.

  
  

Set Yourself Up for Gut Health Success

By avoiding mistakes like relying on generic probiotics, consuming hidden sugars, overusing detox products, skipping fiber, and going it alone, you can lay the foundation for a healthier gut and a happier you.

Every woman’s gut health journey is unique, so remember to:

• Listen to your body.

• Seek professional advice when needed.

• Be patient - healing takes time.

  
  

With the right approach, you can transform your health, feel more vibrant, lose stubborn belly fat, and enjoy improved focus and energy.

Navigating gut health alone can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it by yourself.

My “12-Week Menopause Transformation” program is designed to help you balance your gut, regain your energy, and feel your best. With personalized support, you’ll finally experience the results you’ve been searching for.

Schedule a discovery call here to learn more about my program or how we can work together to achieve your goals for a healthier, more vibrant YOU! I look forward to hear from you!