Leaky gut, or increased intestinal permeability, is a condition where the intestinal lining becomes compromised and allows harmful substances to enter the body. Surprisingly, this lining is only one cell thick and forms a crucial barrier known as the gut barrier, which separates us from external elements.
Think of it like a castle wall with gates that control who enters and exits. These gates are the tight junctions between the cells. Their job is to allow small, essential nutrients into the bloodstream while keeping larger, harmful particles out.
A healthy gut maintains this barrier, ensuring that nutrients reach our organs and preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. However, an imbalance in our gut microbiota can cause inflammation, leading to increased permeability of the intestinal lining. This allows irritants and toxins to enter the bloodstream, potentially damaging cells and impairing the function of the brain and other vital organs.
Digestive symptoms of Leaky Gut
Constipation
Gas
Diarrhoea
Bloating
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Celiac Disease
Food sensitivities
Gastric Ulcers
Crohn's disease
Systemic Symptoms of Leaky Gut
Joint pain
Arthritis
Chronic fatigue
Nutritional deficiencies
Weak immune system
Skin rashes
Weight gain
Thyroid disorders
Cognitive Symptoms of Leaky Gut:
Brain fog
Depression
Anxiety
Mood swings
Autoimmune Symptoms of Leaky Gut
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Neuropathy
Neurological Symptoms
Multiple Sclerosis
Lupus Erythematosus
Headaches/migraine
Hashimoto's disease
Fibromyalgia
Alzheimer's disease
