Leaky Gut

Definition

Increased intestinal permeability causing the leaking of undigested molecules and endotoxins across the intestinal barrier, inducing systemic inflammation.

How it works

Leaky gut results from alterations in intestinal tight junctions, normally maintaining the intestinal barrier impermeable. Causes include dysbiosis, intestinal infections, inflammatory foods, chronic stress, and toxins. This increase in permeability allows bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS), partially digested peptides, and antigens to cross the barrier, inducing systemic immune activation. This creates chronic systemic inflammation associated with food allergies, autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, and metabolic disorders.

Role

Causes bacterial translocation and secondary systemic inflammation.

Examples

• Compromised intestinal barrier
• Tight junction defects and occludins
• Zonula occludens (ZO-1) deficiency
• LPS translocation

Recommendations

Strengthen your intestinal barrier by increasing anti-inflammatory foods rich in glutamine (bone broth), zinc (oysters, seeds), and omega-3 fatty acids. Gradually eliminate inflammatory foods and restore your microbiome.

Key takeaway

Leaky gut is reversible by restoring the intestinal barrier, microbiome, and eliminating inflammatory factors.

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