What Is Leaky Gut Caused By?

The concept of 'leaky gut syndrome' has been gaining attention in the realm of health and wellness, especially because it’s been anecdotally linked to so many health conditions.

In this article, we aim to demystify this syndrome, its causes, and its implications for your overall wellness, giving you the right tools and knowledge to help you feel your absolute best.

What Is the Gut?

Your gut, or the gastrointestinal tract, is more than just a digestion center. It's a complex system housing trillions of bacteria — your gut microbiota, engaged in a mutualistic relationship with your body. Imbalances in these bacteria can contribute to medical conditions, unexpected weight gain or weight loss, and even weaken your immune system’s defenses against pathogens.

Your small intestine, lined with a semi-permeable barrier, plays a critical role in nutrient absorption while preventing harmful substances from entering your bloodstream. This barrier function, supported by tight junctions in the intestinal lining, is key to maintaining a healthy immune response and overall gut health.

What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Leaky gut syndrome, scientifically known as “intestinal hyperpermeability, describes a condition where the semi-permeable barrier of the small intestine becomes more permeable than it should be. This could potentially allow unwanted substances like toxins and bacteria to “leak” into your bloodstream, leading to an immune response, which can cause uncomfortable symptoms.

These may include:

• Bloating
• Constipation
• A feeling of constant fatigue

Leaky gut syndrome has also been associated with more severe health problems and symptoms. 

What Are the Causes of Leaky Gut Syndrome?

The exact causes of leaky gut syndrome are still being researched. However, there are certain factors that could potentially compromise the integrity of your gut barrier.

For instance, a poor diet packed with processed foods and low in fiber can negatively affect your gut health. Gluten sensitivity is also a potential trigger in some individuals, contributing to gut inflammation. The overgrowth of certain bacteria, known as dysbiosis, can also disrupt the harmony in your gut environment.

Stress is another element that can wreak havoc on your gut health. Chronic stress can alter your gut bacteria and potentially increase gut permeability. Moreover, frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can affect the intestinal barrier.

Finally, there's a protein called zonulin that plays a pivotal role in managing gut permeability. Certain stimuli, including undigested food particles and specific types of bacteria, can lead to an overproduction of zonulin, increasing intestinal permeability.

Leaky Gut and Other Health Conditions

An imbalanced gut environment might lead to more than just digestive issues. There is a growing body of research suggesting a link between leaky gut syndrome and a variety of other health concerns. 

Food allergies or sensitivities, for example, might be aggravated by increased intestinal permeability. There’s also an intimate relationship between gut health and skin health. It's also worth noting that a disrupted gut environment may influence your weight, with gut health potentially being linked to obesity.

Tips To Help Manage Symptoms of Leaky Gut

While leaky gut syndrome is a topic of growing interest and research, it's essential to note that the concept is still somewhat controversial in mainstream medicine. Some healthcare professionals remain skeptical about its existence as a standalone condition, while others argue that we need more solid research on the subject.

That being said, if you are experiencing digestive issues or other health concerns, it's always best to consult with a qualified healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalized medical advice. However, if you're interested in promoting your overall gut health, here are some general tips that may help.

Prioritize a Nutrient-Rich Diet

A diet rich in nutrients can aid in supporting a healthy gut. Limiting processed foods and incorporating a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your meals can positively influence your gut microbiome. If you have gluten sensitivities, consider gluten-free alternatives, as gluten can contribute to increased intestinal permeability in sensitive individuals.

You can also try taking digestive enzymes to help support your digestive health and manage food sensitivities.

Balance Your Gut Microbiome With Probiotics and Prebiotics

Consider integrating probiotics and prebiotics into your wellness routine. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, can help balance your gut microbiome. 

Prebiotics, on the other hand, act as food for these good bacteria, supporting their growth and survival. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurts and fermented foods, while prebiotics can be found in foods like onions, garlic, and bananas.

Stay Hydrated

Water plays a critical role in the health of your digestive tract. Keeping your body hydrated assists in maintaining mucosal lining in the intestines and aids in the smooth passage of food and waste products through the digestive tract.

Incorporate Fiber-Rich Supplements

Fiber plays a key role in maintaining gut health by encouraging regular bowel movements and feeding your gut bacteria. While whole foods are generally the best sources of fiber, dietary supplements can also help you meet your daily fiber needs, particularly if you're on a restricted diet. 

Sparkle Fiber® is a great example. Made with super greens, this supplement can help in restoring balance in your gut microbiome.*

Limit Use of NSAIDs Where Possible

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can affect the function of the intestinal barrier. Limiting the use of NSAIDs where possible and opting for other methods of pain relief may help support gut health. As always, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to any prescribed medication regimen.

Support Your Gut With L-Glutamine

L-glutamine is an amino acid that serves as a primary fuel source for the cells of your gut lining and the intestinal wall. Foods like meat, fish, and eggs can be good sources of L-glutamine.

Keep Stress in Check

Chronic stress can negatively affect your gut health. From yoga to meditation to simple deep breathing, find the stress-management technique that works for you and make it a regular part of your routine.

Remember, taking steps to support your gut health can contribute positively to your overall wellness journey. However, everyone's body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's always essential to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Wrap It Up

Understanding leaky gut syndrome and how it can affect your overall health is the first step to protecting your health. It's about more than just mitigating symptoms; it's about regaining control over your health and, ultimately, improving your quality of life.

At Love Wellness, we want you to feel good about supporting your total body. That’s why we formulate products that are free of microbiome and endocrine disruptors, and toxic skin irritants like parabens, phthalates, and fragrances.

Sources:

Your Digestive System & How it Works | NIDDK

Leaky Gut Syndrome: Symptoms, Diet, Tests & Treatment | Cleveland Clinic

Poor diet one suspected cause of leaky gut syndrome | UCLA Health

The Gut Microbiome: Human Health and Inflammatory Skin Diseases | PMC