Is Leaky Gut Syndrome Causing My Health Issues?

If you are suffering from stomach problems, with symptoms such as bloating, tiredness and food intolerance, you may be one of millions who, according to Dr Oz, suffer from leaky gut syndrome. Unfortunately this medical condition is so hard to diagnose, it often goes unrecognized by many doctors.

What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?

Leaky Gut Syndrome is a fairly common complaint which is thought to be caused when damage to the intestine wall allows bacteria and toxins to penetrate into the bloodstream. The small intestine, commonly known as the gut, is the long passage along which our food passes and is digested into the bloodstream.

The gut is the body's largest immune system when functioning correctly it filters out harmful substances. However, if the intestinal wall suddenly becomes permeable, all manner of toxins and bacteria can pass into the body. If these harmful substances enter into the bloodstream, they can quickly wreak havoc on our health.

When the immune system has to fight these harmful bodies seeping into the bloodstream, it quickly becomes overloaded and impaired. Gradually the body's defense against other external diseases is lowered.

What are the Symptoms of Leaky Gut syndrome?

Symptoms of leaky gut syndrome range from mild to severe, but they all should be taken seriously as they gradually erode your health and quality of life.
They include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Abdominal discomfort or pain
  • Constipation
  • Food sensitivity
  • Insomnia
  • Mood disorders
  • Anxiety
  • Tiredness

If you have leaky gut syndrome, these symptoms are all caused by the body not getting the essential nutrients that they should and by the immune system working overtime to counter the toxins in the body.

In some cases, the body reacts to the poisonous toxins by erupting with eczema, rashes and skin infections. Left untreated, leaky gut syndrome can lead to more serious auto immune diseases such as arthritis and psoriasis. As the immune system concentrates on fighting the problems caused by a leaky gut, joint, muscles and tissues come under attack.

It is important that leaky gut syndrome is diagnosed early and treated to prevent those minor symptoms from becoming far more serious. Mainstream medics may recommend treating the symptoms with potent anti-inflammatory drugs, but many sufferers have found relief simply by changing their diet.

Leaky Gut Syndrome Diet

Most sufferers of leaky gut syndrome find that they need to follow the recommended diet for at least six weeks before noticeable changes are seen in their symptoms and energy levels, so it is important to persist with the recommended changes.

Foods to avoid with leaky gut syndrome include foods containing soy and gluten. Eliminate junk processed foods which are high in chemicals and preservatives. These are only likely to irritate the lining of the gut, preventing it from healing itself and becoming non-porous again.

Rule out sugar, including fructose in fruit, as this feeds yeast in the intestine which is also thought to cause or aggravate a leaky gut. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which are known irritants, and do not take antibiotics during this time.

Replace all these negative foods with green vegetables, a good source of digestive enzymes, cooked so they are easy to digest. Eat moderate portions of good quality organic meat, but avoid pork. Garlic, leeks and onions are excellent as they eliminate candida and yeast growth.

Finally, support a healthy immune system and boost your digestion with omega-3 supplements and multivitamins. Take probiotics daily to support a healthy gut and provide plenty of good bacteria to give your leaky gut the best chance to heal.