Could your gut health be disrupting your sleep? Your digestive system and your brain are in constant communication. This relationship, often referred to as the gut–brain axis, means that what happens in your gut can influence how well you sleep.

Your Sleep and Your Gut Health Are Closely Connected

Sleep problems are common: if you struggle to switch off at night, wake frequently, or never quite feel refreshed in the morning, you are not alone.

What you may not realise is that your gut plays a bigger role than you think. Infact, there are two ways your gut health is linked to how well you sleep:

1. Sleep and the Gut-Brain Axis

• A large proportion of serotonin is produced in the gut. Serotonin helps regulate mood and is involved in the production of melatonin during darkness. This hormone supports your sleep cycle.
• Your gut microbiome follows a daily rhythm. Irregular or shortened sleep can disrupt it, and imbalances in gut bacteria may lead to sleep problems in return.
• Digestive discomfort such as pain, bloating, excessive wind or feeling unsettled can make it harder to relax fully at night.

2. The Inflammation and Stress Connection

• When gut health is out of balance, the body may experience increased inflammatory activity and stress responses. 
  • Elevated stress hormones, particularly in the evening, can make it harder to unwind and drift into restorative sleep. 
  • Poor sleep quality or sleep deprivation reduces the overall diversity of the gut microbiota and decreases the levels of beneficial, anti-inflammatory bacteria. 
  • Problems with sleep can lead to an increase in pro-inflammatory, "harmful" bacteria, which are associated with higher levels of inflammation.

This creates a cycle:

Over time, the loop continues…

Supporting Sleep Through Gut Health

If you are looking to improve your gut heath and support better sleep, it can be helpful to target the gut and brain at the same time.

At AltruVita, we developed our Xanthohumol Hop Extract+ formula with this connection in mind.

Xanthohumol is a naturally occurring compound derived from hops. It has recognised antioxidant properties and is known for its relaxing effect, supporting mental and physical wellbeing and sound, healthful sleep.

Several research studies also show gut microbiome modulation and anti-inflammatory properties. By helping the body manage oxidative stress and promoting relaxation, it may offer gentle support as part of your evening routine.

A Holistic Approach to Improving Your Sleep

Improving sleep often requires looking beyond quick fixes. Supporting gut balance, managing stress, and creating a consistent night-time routine can all work together.

If you have been focusing only on sleep itself, it may be time to ask a different question:

Could your gut health be part of the story?

Frequently Asked Questions about Gut Health and Sleep Problems

Is there a link between gut health and sleep problems?

Yes. Due to the connection between your digestive system and your brain (known as the gut–brain axis), what happens in your gut can influence how well you sleep.

Can supplements improve poor gut health and sleep?

Targeting gut health can be helpful in supporting better sleep. AltruVita’s Xanthohumol Hop Extract+ formula contains Xanthohumol, a naturally occurring compound derived from hops. It has recognised antioxidant properties and is known for its relaxing effect, supporting mental and physical wellbeing and sound, healthful sleep.

Which magnesium is best for sleep and gut health?