"Leaky Gut: Decoded"
Leaky gut, also known as increased intestinal permeability, occurs when the tight junctions in the gut lining become dysfunctional. These tight junctions, composed of proteins like claudins, occludins, and zonula occludins, act like links in a chain, keeping the gut wall intact and protecting the body from harmful substances. When these links weaken, the barrier breaks down, allowing bacteria, viruses, and undigested food particles to enter the bloodstream and potentially cause widespread health issues.
Do You Have Leaky Gut?
If you answer yes to more than one of these questions, you may be experiencing symptoms of leaky gut:
Do you have multiple food allergies or sensitivities?
Are you frequently fatigued or experiencing brain fog?
Do you wake up with joint pain?
Do you regularly experience diarrhea or constipation?
Leaky gut is often linked to various health concerns, so recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward identifying the issue.
Symptoms of Leaky Gut
Leaky gut can manifest in several ways, impacting both the gut and the rest of the body. Common symptoms include:
Diarrhea or constipation
Fatigue and low energy levels
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Joint pain
Multiple food allergies or sensitivities
Nutrient deficiencies
What Causes Leaky Gut?
Several factors can damage the gut lining, leading to leaky gut. Understanding these causes can help address the root of the issue:
1. Chronic Inflammation
Inflammation damages the mucosal lining of the stomach and intestines, breaking down the tight junctions that hold intestinal cells together. As a result, harmful substances like bacteria, viruses, and undigested food particles can pass through the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream, triggering systemic symptoms such as headaches, joint pain, and frequent illnesses.
2. Food Allergies and Sensitivities
Eating foods that your body is allergic or sensitive to triggers an immune response. This cascade creates immunoglobulin complexes that attack the intestinal lining, worsening permeability and causing gaps in the gut wall. Over time, this can lead to multiple food allergies and ongoing inflammation.
3. Chronic Stress
Stress increases cortisol levels, which disrupt bacterial diversity in the gut and weaken tight junctions. This creates a vicious cycle of inflammation and impaired gut function.
4. Drugs and Alcohol
Alcohol kills beneficial bacteria and promotes low-grade inflammation.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) thin the mucosal barrier of the stomach and intestines, leading to ulcers and an increased risk of intestinal permeability.
Antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria balance, contributing to overgrowths like candida. Without the regulation of healthy bacteria, pathogens can thrive and damage the intestinal lining.
How is Leaky Gut Diagnosed?
Lab testing can provide insights into the state of your intestinal barrier. Two common methods include:
Mannitol/Lactulose Test: Measures how well the gut absorbs these substances. High levels of lactulose (a larger molecule) in relation to mannitol indicate increased intestinal permeability.
Zonulin Levels: High levels of zonulin in stool tests signal that the tight junctions in the gut are breaking down.
Low Secretory IgA: Indicates reduced gut immunity, often associated with chronic inflammation and leaky gut.
Effective Treatments for Leaky Gut
Healing leaky gut requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes, reduces inflammation, and supports the repair of the gut lining.
Step 1: Remove Triggers
Identifying and removing the root cause of your gut dysfunction is essential. This could involve:
Eliminating foods that trigger allergies or sensitivities.
Reducing stress through lifestyle changes.
Avoiding alcohol, NSAIDs, or other medications that harm the gut lining.
Step 2: Repair the Gut Lining
Glutamine (10–20 grams daily): Provides fuel for intestinal cells, promoting repair and regeneration of the gut lining.
N-Acetyl Glucosamine (NAG): Helps produce mucin, a protective layer that supports the integrity of the mucosal barrier.
Demulcent Herbs: Slippery elm, marshmallow root (Althea officinalis), and deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) coat and soothe the gut lining, preventing further damage.
Step 3: Support Digestion
Include digestive-supporting foods like bone broth, fermented vegetables, and bitter greens.
Add supplements like probiotics to restore gut bacteria balance and support a healthy microbiome.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Support Gut Health
How you live your day-to-day life also affects the health of your gut. Consider these lifestyle changes:
Reduce Stress: Practice meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises to lower cortisol levels and reduce inflammation.
Eat Mindfully: Avoid eating on the go or in a rushed state. Chew food thoroughly to stimulate digestive enzymes and reduce the burden on your gut.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking adequate water supports digestion and nutrient absorption.
Let’s Find the Root Cause Together
Leaky gut can lead to a wide range of unexplained symptoms, from fatigue to food sensitivities. By addressing the root causes and implementing a personalized treatment plan, you can restore your gut health and overall well-being.
Book a free 15-minute consultation today to start your journey toward better gut health.
Dr. Michael Burstein, ND