An Overview Of Leaky Gut

Leaky gut is relatively a new term in the medical community. So if you find out that your doctor doesn’t know about it, don’t be surprised. More and more researches are being conducted to study this disorder and its impacts.

Inside our bellies, there is a lining on the intestines that make up an area of 4,000 square feet. A perfectly working intestinal lining prevents the absorption of harmful materials and bacteria in the body. An unhealthy lining, on the other hand, develops cracks and holes that allow partially digested foods and other foreign objects to enter the body. This condition can cause inflammation in the gut and changes in the gut flora. The research world has been able to figure out that inflammation and changes in the gut flora may place a significant role in the development of several intestinal disorders.

Who gets a leaky gut?

Since our intestinal lining is not completely impenetrable, we all have a leaky gut. Some people have a genetic predisposition, and they are more susceptible to changes in the digestive system. Another more significant reason for cracks and holes in the intestinal lining is the modern lifestyle. Observations suggest that common American foods, which consist of low-fiber, high sugar, and saturated fats, are the culprits of intestinal disorders. People who consume alcohol or remain under stress are also susceptible to developing these disorders.

Significant evidence suggests that intestinal permeability may contribute to several gastrointestinal conditions, including celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and IBS. However, there aren’t many pieces of evidence available that tell whether or not a leaky gut can cause problems elsewhere in the body. Some studies also show that a leaky gut may contribute to the development of certain autoimmune disorders, arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma, obesity, and mental disorders. Nonetheless, these causes and effects are not supported by any clinical studies yet.

Ensuring a healthier gut

You might not have heard the word increased intestinal permeability much in most of the doctor’s offices. The good news is that many existing medicines have been able to treat symptoms caused by a leaky gut. In most cultures around the world, people use different dietary options to feel better. In fact, there is a rising trend of shifting to a healthy diet, even in the US. People who develop a gut illness turn to nutritionists to have a dietary change instead of relying on antibiotic medications. The reason for choosing a healthy diet plan is a more viable option is that it’s the poor diet that causes most of the gut-related problems. Shifting to a particular diet not only stops the issue from worsening but also helps to reverse that issue.

There is not much information available regarding whether or not a leaky gut can cause problems outside the gastrointestinal tract. Nonetheless, it is never harmful to eat nutritious and healthy foods.

If you suffer from symptoms that indicate a leaky gut, you may want to discuss it with your doctor. You can discuss dietary options and medications to determine which option might work well for you.