What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a tube of connected organs that runs from the mouth to the rectum. The organs of the GI tract include:

• the esophagus
• the stomach
• the small and large intestines

Digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine break down nutrients in food and drink into smaller molecules that the body uses for energy, growth, and repair.

The intestines also play a vital part in protecting the body from harmful bacteria and toxins.

Tight openings in the intestinal walls allow water and nutrients to pass through into the bloodstream while keeping harmful substances inside. In LGS, these openings become larger, allowing food particles, bacteria, and toxins to go directly into the bloodstream.

The intestines are also home to a wide variety of bacteria called the gut microbiota. These bacteria help digestion, protect the intestinal wall and support normal immune function. LGS may involve imbalances in gut microbiota.

According to a 2016 article, imbalances in the gut microbiota can activate the body's immune response. This leads to gut inflammation and increased intestinal permeability (IP). IP describes how easily substances can leak out of the intestines and into the bloodstream.

Symptoms

A leaky gut shares a lot of its symptoms with other health problems. This can make the condition difficult for doctors to identify.

A leaky gut might cause or contribute to the following symptoms:

• chronic diarrhea, constipation, or bloating
• nutritional deficiencies
• fatigue
• headaches
• confusion
• difficulty concentrating
• skin problems, such as acne, rashes, or eczema
• joint pain
• widespread inflammation

Causes and Risk Factors

Professionals do not yet know precisely what causes the leaky gut syndrome. However, various risk factors can interfere with the gut microbiota and contribute to increased IP. Examples include:

• bad nutrition
• alcohol consumption
• infections
• autoimmune disorders, such as lupus
• diabetes
• stress

Treatment and Improving Gut Health

Because a lot of doctors do not consider leaky gut to be a genuine medical condition, there is no standard treatment.

Nevertheless, certain dietary and lifestyle adjustments may help individuals to improve their gut health. This, in turn, might minimize leaky gut symptoms.

The following dietary tips may help to improve gut health:

• consuming more probiotics to increase beneficial gut bacteria
• eating foods rich in prebiotic fiber, such as vegetables and whole grains
• consuming less meat, dairy, and eggs
• avoiding added sugar and artificial sweeteners

The following lifestyle changes can improve digestion and support a healthy gut:

• exercising consistently
• getting enough sleep every night
• minimizing stress
• avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics
• quitting smoking

For further information about Dr. Stengler’s practice and his clinic in Rancho Santa Fe, California, please visit our website at MarkStengler.com or give us a call at (760) 274-2377