Leaky gut is medically known as intestinal permeability. That being said, the answer to the big question….. Yes leaky gut is real. It seems that leaky gut is becoming more of a popular medical and health topic and more people are learning about it. Leaky gut syndrome is still a medical mystery but there are new studies being done all the time with information that shows the validity in the fact that the syndrome is indeed real and it affects people.
This leaky gut syndrome is a digestive condition caused by toxins and bacteria leaking through the wall lining of the intestines. There are various things that can damage the intestinal lining such as overuse of certain medications, gastric or duodenal ulcers, intestinal injuries and SIBO. If bacteria and toxins pass through or leak outside of the intestinal walls they can enter the bloodstream. This causes widespread inflammation possibly triggering a reaction from your immune system which can lead to so many different health issues.
Leaky Gut Symptoms
- Chronic Diarrhea
- Chronic Constipation
- Bloating
- Gas
- Headache
- Brain Fog
- Memory Loss
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Poor Immune System
- Excessive Fatigue
- Sugar & Carb Cravings
These symptoms listed above match so many other symptoms produced by different ailments and many of them pertain to digestive health and gastrointestinal health issues. The matching symptoms can make it difficult to diagnose leaky gut so a proper diagnosis may take time. There are at least four different tests available used to rule out or diagnose leaky gut syndrome. There are various things that can damage the intestinal wall lining and eventually lead to a leaky gut.
Leaky Gut Causes
Many healthcare practitioners believe that leaky gut has many causes and one of those is your diet but there’s much more.
- Certain Medical Conditions
- Crohn’s Disease
- Celiac Disease
- HIV/Aids
- Sepsis
- Type 1 Diabetes
- Norovirus
- Giardiasis
- Medical Treatments
- Chemotherapy
- Radiotherapy
- Surgery
- Alcohol Consumption
- Painkillers
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs or NSAIDs such as – Tylenol, Aspirin, and Ibuprofen
Natural leaky gut treatment involves a combination of treatments and sometimes lifestyle changes. Leaky gut antibiotics and supplements are typically used along with specialized diets such as the elimination diet. This diet helps doctors and patients pinpoint what types of food is triggering the syndrome which is making it worse. Once the foods are discovered they are either limited or eliminated from the diet as to keep the gut healthy. Maintaining low stress levels is also essential to healing. Stress can be seen as an issue regarding so many health issues. Heal your gut and heal your body!
