Home // Natural Healing For Leaky Gut Syndrome
Leaky gut syndrome is a digestive condition that affects the lining of the intestines in which gaps in the intestinal walls allow bacteria and other toxins to pass into the bloodstream. Thus, leaky gut may contribute to a range of other medical conditions. Studies have associated increased intestinal permeability with several chronic and autoimmune diseases. In addition to what leaky gut syndrome might cause, hyperpermeability is also thought to be caused by several common diseases, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes — three conditions that damage blood vessels and nerves of the intestinal wall — as well as inflammatory bowel disease.
Digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine break down nutrients in food and drink into smaller molecules that the body uses for energy, growth, and repair. Additionally, the digestive system also plays an important role in protecting your body from harmful substances. The walls of the intestines act as barriers, controlling what enters the bloodstream to be transported to your organs.
Small gaps in the intestinal wall called tight junctions allow water and nutrients to pass through, while blocking the passage of harmful substances. Intestinal permeability refers to how easily substances pass through the intestinal wall. When the tight junctions of intestinal walls become loose, the gut becomes more permeable, which may allow bacteria and toxins to pass from the gut into the bloodstream. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as leaky gut syndrome. This may trigger inflammation and changes in the gut flora (normal bacteria) that could lead to problems within the digestive tract and beyond.
Some people may have a genetic predisposition towards leaky gut syndrome and may therefore be more sensitive to changes in the digestive system. A diet that is low in fiber and high in sugar and saturated fats, may also contribute to the development of leaky gut syndrome.
There is no one way that leaky gut syndrome expresses itself; symptoms vary across individuals. The following may be symptoms of leaky gut syndrome: chronic diarrhea, constipation, gas or bloating, nutritional deficiencies, poor immune system, headaches, brain fog, memory loss, excessive fatigue, skin rashes and problems such as acne, eczema or rosacea, cravings for sugar or carbs, arthritis or joint pain, and perhaps even depression, anxiety, and autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately, because leaky gut symptoms aren’t unique, mainstream tests often fail to uncover a definite cause of the problem. This can leave people without a diagnosis and, therefore, untreated. At the Natural Healing Center, we take your symptoms seriously and use natural, healing treatments and lifestyle changes to mitigate or even eliminate your symptoms so that you can experience a naturally healthy lifestyle.
Increased intestinal permeability plays a role in certain gastrointestinal conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. Some studies show that leaky gut may be associated with other autoimmune diseases (lupus, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis), chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, arthritis, allergies, asthma, acne, obesity, and even mental illness.
One of the first steps towards natural recovery from leaky gut syndrome is to remove foods that are inflammatory and promote changes in the gut flora. Foods and substances that should be limited are alcohol, processed foods, and any foods that may cause allergies or sensitivities.
The health experts at the Natural Healing Center will work with your specific symptoms and lifestyle to help you heal, naturally. Harmful bacteria thrive on sugar, and excessive sugar intake can harm gut barrier function, so one step could be to limit refined carb intake. Some people could benefit from eating fermented foods which contain probiotics, or by taking a probiotic supplement. High-fiber foods are beneficial for the good gut bacteria.
These are just some of the steps that can be taken to improve your gut health. At the Natural Healing Center we will work with you to create a sustainable, healthy lifestyle that will help you feel better. Contact us here for an appointment to get to the core of why you are suffering.
