Anti Aging & Functional Medicine

Digestive Health Understand Leaky Gut

Leaky Gut

Leaky Gut

Leaky Gut is a term first coined by non-traditional medicine years ago and it was not until late 2014 that traditional medicine started recognizing it as a real problem.

Basically, Leaky Gut exists when the lining cells of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) separate allowing content of the GI system to enter the body between the separated cells.  Once these digested particles get between the cells and into the body they are recognized as foreign and are attacked by natural killer white blood cells and antibodies.  Once this occurs, the intestinal tract becomes microscopically inflamed and can result in decreased nutrient absorption.  Many believe that this is the root of many autoimmune diseases.  Many believe that many autoimmune diseases originate from the gut.

There are many who feel and more research is proving that this process can also result in many autoimmune conditions.  As you can imagine, this can result in a conglomerate of conditions ranging from food allergies to malnutrition (nutrient deficiencies).  Commonly people can complain of fatigue, autoimmune diseases, gas, bloating, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea/constipation, weight gain, decrease mood, cravings (especially bread, sugar, salt) and intolerance to certain foods.  These people frequently have positive allergy tests to many foods.

Correction of this problem utilizes a multiple protocol approach.  Often non-traditional FDA approved testing is utilized to help identify and to direct treatment.  Leaky Gut is often treatable and the underlying problem can be addressed.

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