What is leaky gut?
Leaky gut syndrome (intestinal hyperpermeabililty) occurs as a consequence of intestinal tight junction malfunction. This means that the seal between the bowel and the rest of the body is breached, which enables toxins, bacteria, and undigested food to penetrate the gut wall and get reabsorbed into the blood stream. Leaky gut has a negative effect on all other organs and systems of the body.
What causes leaky gut?
Things that can comprise gut lining, integrity and function are:
• Chronic stress (elevated cortisol weakens gut bacteria)
• Toxins (pesticides & mould)
• Processed Foods (additives & seed oils)
• Dysbiosis (imbalance of gut bacteria or an over growth of yeast, candida)
• Lifestyle choices (smoking, alcohol)
• Lectins & glutens (grains, beans, nightshades, rice, corn)
• Medication (antibiotics, steroids, contraception, acid-reducing drugs, chemotherapy)
• Low stomach acid
Signs you may have leaky gut!
- Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Food sensitivities
- Auto immune disease (Chron’s, celiac, lupus)
- Thyroid issues (hashimotos, hypothyroidism, graves)
- Inflammatory skin conditions (acne, eczema, rosacea, psoriasis)
- Malabsorption
- Mood issues (depression, anxiety)
- Frequent colds and illness
- Adrenal fatigue
- Joints (rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia)
- Hormonal imbalances
How to support leaky gut!
Support a leaky gut by reducing stress, getting consistent sleep, and chewing your food slowly. Focus on gut healing foods like slow cooked meats, bone broth, omega 3s, butyrate rich butter and ghee, and herbal teas. Supplements like glutamine and quercetin, along with pre and probiotics, help strengthen your gut, while sun exposure and avoiding grains and alcohol support overall gut health.