A health problem called leaky gut has become an increasingly well known among alternative health practitioners. A person may feel ill because of an increase in the permeability of their intestines. This "leak” in the intestinal wall allows toxins and bacteria in the digestive tract to affect other organs of the body.
However, the idea is slightly controversial because it is not mentioned in mainstream medical books. Consequently, it is only diagnosed by alternative health practitioners rather than medical doctors. Still, despite the fact that mainstream medical practices do not recognize this disorder, there is a growing body of scientific evidence that suggests that leaky gut syndrome does exist. Researchers have also identified that leaky gut syndrome is the cause of many health problems, particularly in several common autoimmune diseases. In this article, we will take a look at the evidence researchers have found about leaky gut syndrome.
Leaky gut syndrome, sometimes also referred to as intestinal permeability often arises from damage to the linings of the small intestine. As a result of this damage, undigested food bacteria and toxic waste products can overflow into the body, affecting the tissues.
Besides introducing toxins into the bloodstream that will then be circulated throughout the body, another major problem caused by gut permeability is disruption of digestion. The body cannot produce the enzymes necessary to digest food, regulate hormones, and strengthen the immune system.
However, damage to the lining of the small intestine is not the only reason for leaky gut syndrome. This condition can also be caused by certain foods like dairy, soy, gluten, and over the counter or prescription medications.
A leaky gut syndrome produces a wide range of symptoms. Someone may experience digestive issues like bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea due to the body’s deficiency in enzymes and probiotics.
Someone may experience autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s disease, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis. They could experience food allergies, chronic fatigue, eczema, irritable bowels, and migraines because foreign matter absorbed into the bloodstream will create a wide range of immune responses to ward off the perceived threat. Someone may experience mood disorders such as ADHD, ADD, bipolarity, anxiety, or depression.
Someone may experience problems that arise from nutritional deficiency such as craving for carbohydrates or refined sugars. They may also experience other issues like headaches, excessive fatigue, or forgetfulness.
Someone may experience health issues that arise from a compromised immune system such as skin issues like rosacea, eczema, acne, or issues with the joints such as aches and pains in their elbows, wrists, and knees.
Leaky gut syndrome caused by damage to the lining of the small intestine is unlikely to occur unless someone has been in an accident or has experienced inordinate amounts of stress. Most often a leaky gut is caused by food allergies and medications. So, if the cause of the leaky gut is diet or medication, then a dietary change will work wonders. First, a person would have to eliminate certain foods that the immune system attacks because it considers them foreign invaders, defending the body against them as if they were as dangerous as germs or bacteria. Some common foods that trigger an immune response are:
If someone is on medication, they should ask a nutritionist if any medications may also be causing their leaky gut. By eliminating foods that overstimulate the immune system and by changing medications that might be causing intestinal inflammation, a person with this disorder will notice a change within a little over a month. Their digestive problems like gas and diarrhea will subside, their physical energy will improve, and they will sleep well at night. They will report feeling “like a new person.”
As the second step, a person would have to introduce Foods that would rebuild the intestinal wall lining. This includes foods high in glutamine, probiotics, flax powder, avocados, olive oil, coconut, and seafood.
