What causes leaky gut?

A lot of different factors associated with our modern lifestyles can damage the gut lining. These include medications (such as NSAIDs, antibiotics and aspirin), stress, obesity, alcohol, bacterial infections, constipation and nutrient deficiencies, such as lack of zinc or vitamins A and D. Some foods, particularly red meat, dairy products, gluten, sugar and processed foods can encourage inflammation throughout the body and irritate the gut lining.

A protein called zonulin produced by intestinal cells causes the gaps between the tight junctions of the gut to expand. If tight junctions expand, particles of undigested food may be able to pass through the digestive lining. These will be detected by the immune system and can be mistaken for unfamiliar invaders. If this happens the immune system may erroneously attack them. This is what happens when we develop food sensitivities. In a vicious cycle, if we continue to eat foods to which we’re sensitive, ongoing stimulation of the immune system will cause it to release inflammatory chemicals which can result in further damage to the intestinal lining.

This demonstrates the importance of lifestyle and nutrition choices on the proper functioning of our intestine.

Leaky gut has been linked to the following diseases:

• IBS

• Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia

• Depression and low mood

• Headache and migraine

• Thyroid problems

• Skin conditions

• Type 2 diabetes

• Autism

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Parkinson’s disease

• autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Leaky gut is associated with an increase in chronic inflammation throughout the body, as well as reduced absorption of vitamins and minerals.

If you are concerned your gut lining may not be as healthy as it could be, a consultation with a Functional Medicine practitioner can assess your symptoms, health history, food choices, and lifestyle, as well as recommend functional tests to assess your gut function.