We have to acknowledge that gut health is immune health . And, never before has immune health been as important as it is right now. When you damage the gut microbes, you also injure the immune system. For example, 95% of seretonin is made in the gut. Therefore if the gut isn't healthy, the person who is depressed does not have a chance of getting totally well and staying that way.
If leaky gut is left unaddressed it can lead to full-blown autoimmunity.
What is Leaky gut syndrome ?
It is a digestive condition that affects the lining of the intestines. When you have had bad bugs in your gut for a long period of time, the inflamed lining and damage often cause large spaces to open up between the intestinal cells. This condition is called leaky gut syndrome, where gaps in the intestinal walls allow bacteria and other toxins to pass into the bloodstream. Current scientific evidence suggests leaky gut syndrome may contribute to a range of medical conditions such as: allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, fibromyalgia, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD), ulcerative colitis, and skin conditions.
Causes Of Leaky Gut :
1- Certain foods : gluten, grains, dairy, processed foods and sugar
2-Chronic stress : physical and emotional
3- Alcohol
4-GMOs and Pesticides
5- Prescription medications- antibiotics and NSAIDS ( Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs )
6- Pathogens- mold, viruses, parasites, candida
7- Over Sanittization - Do not over use hand sanitizer !
How to treat leaky gut :
1- Remove foods and factors that damage the gut- Replace with healing foods like bone broth, fermented veggies, sprouted seeds, grass-fed meats, wild fatty fish like salmon or cod, and steamed veggies.
2- Repair- with specific supplements like probiotics, digestive enzymes, oil of oregano, and quercetin.( will talk more in details about quercetin in future post )
3- Rebalance with probiotics - Look for brand quality, choose reputable companies.
probiotics and prebiotics can help promote healthy bacteria in your gut. Some examples include : kefir, kimchi, banana, berries, and probiotic yogurt.
Part of treatment will most likely be lifestyle changes, this can include : eating a healthy diet ( increase your intake of high-fiber foods ) , taking probiotics, limiting alcohol and NSAIDs, reducing stress, and quitting smoking.
There are no FDA-approved treatments currently available for leaky gut. The treatment you receive from your doctor will be based on your underlying conditions you have been diagnosed with.
You should see a doctor if :
- Your abdominal pain is causing you concern
- You experience persistent heartburn
- Experience pain passing stool
- Your discomfort interferes with your daily activities
Just remember you gut health is also your immune health. Stay well and Healthy. Dr. Naghmeh
The content of my page is for Informational/Educational purposes only. Nothing should be constructed as Medical Advise.