Also known as an increased intestinal permeability
We have an extensive intestinal lining in our bellies that covers more than 4000 square feet of surface area. When this barrier is working correctly, it can control what is absorbed into the bloodstream (nutrients) and what is rejected (pathogen, viruses, toxins)
What are the symptoms of a leaky gut?
Most symptoms linked to leaky gut are personal and depend on the individual.
Bloating
Gases
Flatulence, wind
Diarrhoea or constipation
Abdominal pain
Insomnia
Stress, Anxiety
Depression
Lightheadedness
Brain fog
Migraines and headaches
Skin issues: Acne, psoriasis or eczema
What are the causes of leaky gut?
There are many root causes of why your gut may be leaking.
● Chronic stress
● Long-term use of antibiotics
● Bacterial Infections
● Vitamin D deficiency
● Sleep deprivation
● An imbalance of gut bacteria
● Chronic alcohol consumption (alcoholism)
Illnesses, diseases that are connected to leaky gut :
Low mood
Rheumatoid arthritis
Celiac, Crohn's disease
Eczema, psoriasis
Irritable bowel syndrome
Chronic liver disease
Diabetes
Obesity
Food allergies and sensitivities
Polycystic ovary syndrome
Top tips to prevent a leaky gut:
Reduce stress: it has been shown that stress impacts intestinal permeability by increasing the gaps between cells. Look at different ways to reduce the stress in the body, which could help improve sleep and prevent leaky gut.
Use Probiotics: especially lactobacillus, which has been shown to decrease bacterial overgrowth if present and restore the intestinal barrier. Also, probiotic intervention may help reduce stress and act as an antidepressant.
Limit alcohol and antibiotics: Both can be harmful to the barrier of the gut, so it would be recommended to limit them as much as possible
Vitamin D has been found to protect the intestines, so make sure you have a good level of vitamin D all the year
Glutamine and curcumin:
Both of these nutrients are very helpful with healing a damaged gut lining and can reduce inflammation and stress in the gut.
Food richer in glutamine :
Chicken
Fish
Cabbage
Spinach
Dairy
Tofu
Lentils
Beans
Elimination diet: this is a method where all allergen foods are removed from the diet, which could also irritate the gut.
Intermittent fasting: is a method where you can eat only during an eating window cycle which gives more time for the body to heal and detox. In addition, it could reduce caloric intake, which has been shown to help heal the leaky gut and give the body the time to rest.
Need personalised help?
If you are struggling with any leaky gut, Book your free call, and we can chat about what might be going on. As a gut specialist, I will help you find the root cause of your dysbiosis and help to re-establish a healthy gut.
Disclaimer: As a multilingual practitioner, you may occasionally notice grammatical errors in my written work. If you have any questions relating to my content, please get in touch.