Leaky gut is medically known as increased intestinal permeability. It is a digestive condition where toxins and bacteria are able to leak through the wall lining of the intestines. Our intestines hold everything inside that can do a lot of harm to us if it escapes the intestines. When the intestinal lining gets damaged cracks and holes allow the toxic sludge to escape and it’s not pretty.
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. This means the toxins and bacteria are free to roam and the immune system is working hard to protect us, which means our immunity could become lower.
Causes of Leaky Gut
Even though leaky gut is still a medical mystery and medical professionals are still studying the root causes there is currently a little bit of information available. Various studios have been done and more are underway. Here is a tidbit of information regarding leaky gut.
- Zonulin is currently the only known regulator of intestinal permeability.
- If zonulin is released it can lead to leaky gut syndrome.
- Two things trigger the release of zonulin.
- Bacteria in the intestine.
- Gluten. Conditions such as IBS and celiac disease causes gluten to increase intestinal permeability.
Leaky gut is caused by a person’s diet in many cases. Certain medications such as antibiotics, over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, and steroids can cause irritation to the intestinal lining, as well as, damage the protective mucus layers of the intestinal wall. The irritation can lead to the start or be a continuation of the inflammation cycles that cause the intestinal permeability.
Leaky Gut Symptoms
There is a variety of symptoms associated with leaky gut syndrome. Not all symptoms are experienced by those with the condition but here are 15 leaky gut symptoms commonly associated with it.
- Nutritional Deficiencies
- Chronic Diarrhea
- Chronic Constipation
- Gas
- Bloating
- Headaches
- Brain Fog
- Memory Loss
- Poor Immune System
- Excessive Fatigue
- Depression – Anxiety – ADD – ADHD
- Sugar & Carb Cravings
- Skin Rashes & Issues (eczema, rosacea, acne)
- Arthritis/Joint Pain
- Autoimmune Disease (Celiac, Crohn’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus)
Natural leaky gut treatment is available and it includes the use of leaky gut supplements, leaky gut probiotics, and leaky gut antibiotics. Many people would rather use natural antibiotics opposed to the pharmaceutical because the overuse of pharmaceutical antibiotics is one of the things on the list that leads to leaky gut syndrome. If you have been dealing with some of the above symptoms it might be a good time to reach out to a doctor. Leaky gut syndrome can cause medical issues throughout the entire body so the sooner it is addressed the better it is for your health and the easier it can be to treat.
