Evidence supporting the use of: Saccharomyces boulardii
For the health condition: Leaky Gut Syndrome

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Saccharomyces boulardii and Leaky Gut Syndrome: Evidence Synopsis

Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast widely studied for its benefits in gastrointestinal health. Its use for "Leaky Gut Syndrome"—a lay term describing increased intestinal permeability—is supported by emerging, though not conclusive, scientific evidence.

Preclinical studies, mostly in animal models, suggest that S. boulardii can enhance intestinal barrier function. Mechanistically, it promotes the expression and assembly of tight junction proteins, such as occludin and zonula occludens-1, which are essential for maintaining gut integrity. (See Czerucka et al., 2012). In rodent models of chemically induced gut injury or inflammation, S. boulardii administration reduced markers of permeability and inflammation.

Human clinical trials are more limited and have primarily focused on conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Clostridioides difficile infection, and inflammatory bowel disease rather than "leaky gut" as an isolated entity. Some studies in patients with Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome suggest that S. boulardii may improve gut barrier function and reduce inflammation, but these effects are secondary outcomes, not the primary endpoints.

In summary, there is scientific rationale and some experimental evidence for the use of S. boulardii to support intestinal barrier integrity, but direct clinical evidence in patients specifically diagnosed with "Leaky Gut Syndrome" is lacking. The current evidence base rates as moderate (3/5) and further human studies are needed for definitive conclusions.

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