Leaky gut is medically known as intestinal permeability and it is still somewhat of a medical mystery. Several studies show that leaky gut is a danger signal for autoimmune disease and if you look in the right places you can find more interesting information. There are debates regarding the condition itself and whether it even classifies as a condition or anything for that matter.
More research into leaky gut syndrome has revealed some of the potential causes that might lead to a leaky gut. What it really boils down to is that there is something causing the intestines to become permeable and weak. Here are some of the suspected culprits causing damage to the gut:
- Certain Medical Conditions
- Crohn’s Disease
- Celiac Disease
- HIV/Aids
- Sepsis
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Medical Treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are two medical treatments that can lead to a leaky gut.
- Alcohol Consumption: Regular alcohol intake can irritate the intestinal lining and damage the protective seals called junctions, between the cells.People with pre-existing gut health issues might have effects anytime they consume alcohol even if it is only on occasion.
- Painkillers: NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a huge culprit causing leaky gut. NSAIDs are found in over the counter painkillers such as Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Aspirin, Advil, Motrin, and Aleve.
- Surgical Procedures: Surgical procedures of the gut can be the cause of damage. A gastric bypass is just one of the surgeries that can cause a leaky gut.
Practitioners of Complementary and Alternative Medicine, as well as Practitioners of Functional Medicine believe there is a much wider range of factors that can lead to or cause leaky gut syndrome aside the five listed above.
- Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth or SIBO
- Eczema
- Overuse of Pharmaceutical Antibiotics
- Food Allergies
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Poor Diet
- Poor Eating Habits
- Autism
- Asthma
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- MS or Multiple Sclerosis
- Lupus
Undigested food particles, germs, bacteria, and toxins can pass through the damaged intestinal wall lining. When this happens it triggers the immune system leading to constant inflammation and other health problems. Some of the causes on the list above can also be the result with the cause being leaky gut. It’s a double-edged sword and the longer it takes to handle it the worse it will become.
Our gut health plays a bigger role in our general health and well-being. If you have a leaky gut, talk to your doctor or practitioner about finding the root of the problem and a treatment plan that is right for you. Leaky gut antibiotics, probiotics, and supplements can all help you heal your leaky gut it’s a matter of finding the right stuff for you because everyone’s situation is going to be unique to them and their body.
