Leaky Gut Syndrome

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Other names for Leaky Gut Syndrome

Hyperpermeable intestines
Increased intestinal permeability
Intestinal barrier dysfunction
Leaky gut

Synopsis of Leaky Gut Syndrome

Leaky gut syndrome refers to a condition in which the lining of the small intestine becomes overly permeable, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and microbes to pass into the bloodstream. While still debated in conventional medicine, it is widely recognized in functional and integrative health as a contributor to chronic inflammation, autoimmune disease, and digestive disorders.

Under normal circumstances, the gut lining acts as a tight barrier, allowing nutrients through while keeping harmful substances out. When this barrier is compromised—often due to stress, poor diet, infections, medications (like NSAIDs or antibiotics), or dysbiosis—it can trigger immune activation, systemic inflammation, and symptoms affecting multiple body systems.

Common symptoms and associated conditions:

  • Bloating, gas, or cramps

  • Food sensitivities

  • Brain fog or fatigue

  • Joint pain

  • Skin issues (e.g., eczema, acne)

  • Autoimmune conditions (e.g., Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis)

  • Mood disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression)

When to see a doctor:
Although there’s no standard test for leaky gut, symptoms that are chronic, multisystemic, or connected to autoimmune disease warrant evaluation by a practitioner familiar with gastrointestinal and immune health. Stool testing, zonulin levels, and intestinal permeability panels may be used.

Natural remedies for Leaky Gut Syndrome

Remove Inflammatory Triggers: Such as gluten, dairy, processed sugar, alcohol, and food additives.

Repair the Gut Lining: Use nutrients like L-glutamine, zinc, and vitamin D.

Reinoculate the Microbiome: With probiotics and prebiotics from fermented foods or supplementation.

Reintroduce Whole Foods: Emphasize bone broth, cooked vegetables, and omega-3s.

Reduce Stress and Improve Sleep: Both regulate the gut-immune connection.

Additional Help

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At-Home Lab Testing

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Symptoms like fatigue, bloating, skin issues, or mood changes often point to deeper imbalances. Our at-home lab tests make it easy to investigate hormone health, gut function, food sensitivities, and more—no clinic visit required.

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