When a person is under prolonged stress, the increased Cortisol levels seen in Stage I Adrenal Exhaustion are very destructive to the GI and immune systems. This period of time when Cortisol is very high, directly causes a breakdown in the SigA (Secretory Immunoglobulin A) mucosal barrier lining of the small intestine. 80% of a person’s immune system is in this (SigA) antibody layer. This mucosal barrier is similar to a walled fortress with gates guarded by soldiers. A healthy gut wall allows for the proper breakdown and absorption of nutrients from the foods we eat into the gut wall and into the blood stream to be used by the body for building up and keeping tissue healthy.
When this mucosal barrier becomes destroyed by the high levels of Cortisol, two negative reactions occur. First, there is not a complete breakdown of nutrients such as proteins. As undigested protein particles pass through the broken down barrier, they pass directly into the blood stream and migrate to areas of the body creating inflammation (joints, cardiovascular tissue, etc.). this is known as “Leaky Gut Syndrome”. The weakened, broken down gut lining is also not efficient at absorbing other nutrients like vitamins and minerals from the foods we eat. The other negative reaction that happens when the gut wall is deteriorated is now the mucosal barrier is not strong enough to fight off and destroy a variety of pathogens including: bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These pathogens now can invade into the gut and cause such things as GERD/ Reflux, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, etc. and other more serious health conditions.
If the doctor determines that you have GI issues, then a GI lab test will be performed on the patient and sent in to BioHealth Labs for evaluation. Most of the time pathogens are detected in these lab tests because of the high accuracy of the unique four day detection methods used by BioHealth Labs. Pathogens that are commonly found include: bacteria, parasites, and yeast overgrowth (Candida Albicans). Depending on what kind of pathogen is found, the patient is put on a natural antibiotic program for usually 2 months to kill the pathogen. Sometimes a prescription antibiotic drug will be recommended for certain pathogens.
Another common occurrence following mucosal barrier breakdown is a food sensitivity or food intolerance condition. The doctor will determine which foods the patient has developed sensitivities to based on blood antibody testing (IgE/IgG), and recommend a special healing diet plan. Common sensitivities include dairy and gluten. Most people report marked improvement in their overall health when they complete the Gut Pathogen Eradication/Gut Regeneration Programs.