Dangers of a Leaky Gut
Adrian Lopresti, PhD
Leaky gut syndrome (technically known as intestinal hyperpermeability) is a condition characterised by gaps opening up in the intestinal wall that allows far too many substances into the bloodstream.
Normally, the intestinal walls forms a semi-permeable barrier, only allowing properly digested nutrients into the bloodstream, while preventing the uptake of toxins and undigested food particles.
Symptoms of leaky gut include:
Abdominal pain (chronic)
Multiple chemical sensitivities
Recurrent bladder infections
Recurrent skin rashes
Constipation and/or diarrhoea
Conditions and diseases associated
with Leaky Gut Syndrome:
Irritable bowel syndrome
Mental problems such as depression, anxiety and schizophrenia
Autism and other learning disorders
Asthma and other respiratory diseases
Insomnia and sleep problems
Chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia
Skin conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis
It is obvious that the list of symptoms is far ranging and people suffering from it can go to multiple doctors for advice. If you suspect you may be suffering from any of these symptoms, try the following recommendations:
7 Tips to Treat Leaky Gut Syndrome:
1. Eliminate potentially allergenic foods. Common foods include gluten-containing foods, dairy, soy, nuts, seafoods, and eggs. It can be helpful to trial an elimination diet which eliminates many of these foods.
2. Reduce stress levels. Increased stress can damage the gut lining and lead to this syndrome.
3. Take gut-healing herbs. These include aloe vera, glutamine, slippery elm, zinc, curcumin, and peppermint. Many of these are contained in
4. Increase levels of good bacteria in the gut (probiotics). This can be achieved by increasing 'food' for probiotics (known as prebiotics) or directly taking probiotic supplements. A high-quality pre-biotic fibre with immune-enhancing effects is arabinogalactans which are contained in
BCN's GastroForte AG.
5. Take antioxidants and anti-inflammatory herbs and spices. Gut problems lead to increased inflammation and free radical production. To combat these effects take herbs and spices such as turmeric (curcumin), fennel, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. They will help combat the damaging effects of gut problems on the body. These herbs can be added to foods or taken in supplement form. BCN's Relieve Turmeric Forte contain herbs that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
6. Take supplements. Gut problems can reduce digestion and absorption of essential nutrients. Taking fish oil capsules, a high-quality multivitamin, and even a low-allergenic protein powder (such as
BCN's ProBlend) can ensure you are receiving optimal levels of nutrients every day.
7. Seek professional advice. If you continue to experience health problems and suspect you may be suffering from gut problems, seek advice from a knowledgeable practitioner (usually naturopaths, nutritionists or nutritionally-trained GPs).
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