About Leaky Gut Syndrome
Leaky Gut Syndrome, also known as Intestinal Permeability, is a condition that affects millions of people. However, it is not fully recognized by traditional practitioners and is often attributed to other conditions within the intestine. Leaky gut refers to microholes and tears that can occur in the intestinal lining, allowing food particles to “leak” out of the intestine and into the bloodstream. More attention is now being paid to the condition of leaky gut as more and more patients are being treated for food intolerances and abdominal discomfort.
Definition
Leaky gut syndrome or intestinal permeability is considered a dysfunction of the digestive system. The lining of the intestinal wall normally does not allow any food particles to escape from the intestine. However, if the digestive tract becomes inflamed or damaged, small holes can appear in the intestinal lining. This allows small particles of undigested food, protein, fat, and toxins to escape and be absorbed by the body. The body sees these substances as invaders or antigens. The body then responds to these foreign invaders by activating the body’s antibodies for defense. Inflammation can begin to appear throughout the body, allergic reactions can occur, and many other symptoms appear.
Symptoms
Some of the symptoms you may experience with leaky gut syndrome are abdominal pain and bloating. Many people with the syndrome experience diarrhea and excessive flatulence. Food allergies or sensitivities may occur, especially to gluten. Irritable bowel syndrome is common. Muscle pain, joint pain, and arthritis can be symptoms of leaky gut. Slowness, depression, memory loss, and mood swings may be associated with leaky gut.
Causes
There are several factors that can cause leaky gut. Alcohol and caffeine are strong irritants to the intestinal wall and can cause microholes to appear. Overuse of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, can contribute to leaky gut. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Many people are allergic or very sensitive to the protein found in gluten. Gluten proteins attack the intestinal wall, again creating microtears. Stress can cause excess acid in the system which further weakens the intestinal lining.
remedies
Fortunately, with some nutritional and lifestyle changes, leaky gut syndrome can be reversed. Avoid alcohol and excess sugar to help curb the possibility of Candida. Taking a full-spectrum probiotic can help restore the natural bacterial balance in your gut. Go on a gluten-free diet. There are plenty of gluten-free products available today, so you don’t feel like you have to miss out on pasta and bread. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Dr. Andrew Weil suggests taking a supplement of L-Glutamine, an amino acid that helps maintain and repair the intestinal lining. Take natural digestive enzymes containing papain and bromelain before a meal to help break down food particles.
candida
One of the main causes is contributed to an overgrowth of Candida. Our intestinal tract normally has a balance of candida thriving with other beneficial bacteria. However, when Candida overgrows, due to excess sugars in the diet, overuse of antibiotics, and other lifestyle factors, Candida becomes a serious problem in the gut. Candida is a fungus that produces root-like structures called rhizoids. These rhizoids attach to the intestinal wall and can break through the lining, producing small holes.
