Leaky gut syndrome
What is leaky gut syndrome?
Leaky gut syndrome (increased intestinal permeability or intestinal hyperpermeability) is a problem involving the small intestine. The small intestine absorbs most of the nutrients, minerals and vitamins in the digestive process. The small intestine contains microscopic pores which allow nutrients to pass on through to the bloodstream so that they can be utilised by the body.
The pores in the small intestine will block anything which should not enter the bloodstream such as toxins, bacteria, large molecules and undigested food, this is to keep the blood healthy and cleansed. The small intestine will only allow what should be going through to the blood but sometimes the cells which make up the walls of the intestine can become unhealthy from various reasons, this then results in the microscopic pores widening which is abnormal.
If the pores become wider and damaged then they will allow things that should not be entering the bloodstream going through. When things that should not be in the bloodstream (especially undigested food) find their way in it will cause an immune response because the body views anything that should not be in the bloodstream as foreign invaders. An immune system response or attack can result in inflammation which causes more stress and even further damage to the already vulnerable small intestine creating a vicious cycle.
The pores in the small intestine will block anything which should not enter the bloodstream such as toxins, bacteria, large molecules and undigested food, this is to keep the blood healthy and cleansed. The small intestine will only allow what should be going through to the blood but sometimes the cells which make up the walls of the intestine can become unhealthy from various reasons, this then results in the microscopic pores widening which is abnormal.
If the pores become wider and damaged then they will allow things that should not be entering the bloodstream going through. When things that should not be in the bloodstream (especially undigested food) find their way in it will cause an immune response because the body views anything that should not be in the bloodstream as foreign invaders. An immune system response or attack can result in inflammation which causes more stress and even further damage to the already vulnerable small intestine creating a vicious cycle.
What are the causes and influences of leaky gut syndrome?
Leaky gut can happen for a number of various reasons and contributing factors. Different health issues can eventually cause disturbances in the small intestine and the digestive system as a whole. Five of the main causes and influences of leaky gut syndrome are listed and explained below:
- Chronic stress - Stress can weaken the immune system leaving you more open to inflammatory problems because you lose your ability to deal with bad bacteria, infections and viruses appropriately. When mental, emotional or physical stress occurs, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol and norepinephrine. These hormones can shut down the immune and digestive system which can affect the health of the gut. Stress also affects the balance of healthy bacteria and the physiological function of the gut resulting in it not working as well it should
- Intestinal dysbiosis - The bacteria in the gut can become out of balance and good bacteria is dominated by bad bacteria which can affect the gut in many ways causing damage and inflammation. Causes of intestinal dysbiosis are SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), overuse of prescription drugs, parasites, candida overgrowth and other moulds/yeasts, lack of probiotics, stress, antacids, poor dieting and daily contact with toxins and chemicals
- Food sensitivities and allergies - Food sensitives and allergies are one of the main causes of leaky gut syndrome and the syndrome itself can lead to new allergies and sensitivities. If the body is allergic or sensitive to certain foods then this will affect the lining of the gut causing inflammation and damage to the gut tissue cells. The most common food allergy or intolerance associated with leaky gut is gluten
- Poor dieting - Many processed foods and refined sugar foods contain additives and preservatives which can damage the cells in the gut tissue. Foods like these will also aggravate an already sensitive and impaired digestive system/gut lining. Bad dieting will also not supply the body with enough nutrients to help restore the gut or to keep it healthy and to aid the overall digestive system
- Toxins - Daily exposure to toxins (heavy metals etc) and chemicals (prescription drugs) ingested or inhaled can overburden the body especially the liver. If the liver is trying to process many different toxic substances then the body's natural ability to detoxify slows down causing the digestive system to become sluggish. A sluggish digestive system will allow toxins to linger in the gut which can eventually damage it
Testing for leaky gut syndrome
Testing for leaky gut syndrome involves a urine sample. The urine is tested for its PEG level after a 6 hour urine collection and also after a 3 gram oral dose of PEG (polyethene glycol). An increase in PEG excretion (hyperpermeability) in the urine above the upper limit is an indication of leaky gut. The PEG test can also give an indication of malabsorption but it is not a diagnosis for malabsorption syndromes.
For leaky gut syndrome testing please click here for the available tests page.
For leaky gut syndrome testing please click here for the available tests page.
Treatment for leaky gut syndrome
Treating leaky gut syndrome involves dietary changes, supplement use and lifestyle changes to minimise and avoid stress. Dealing with the underlying causes and factors which are contributing to the syndrome is also important. The main goal of the treatment programme is to heal the gut and replenish digestive health to its normal functioning level. If you undergo the leaky gut test and you test positive then you will receive the treatment programme in the results email. If you have any questions about your results, then mindovermetal will answer them for you.
