What is Leaky Gut?
A common functional GI disorder is Leaky Gut or Intestinal Permeability. Leaky Gut occurs when cells in the lining of the GI tract, which are tightly sealed together in a healthy gut, become loose in genetically susceptible individuals, due to chronic exposure to nutrient-depleted and synthetic foods. Over time these leaky junctions lead to a trajectory of a plethora of allergy spectrum disorders like asthma, hives, eczema, rhinitis, headaches as well as autoimmunity like hashimoto thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.
Deficiency of the enzyme diamine oxidase [DAO] in our gut lining, which is responsible for breaking down histamine, causes histamine levels to rise. This frequently results in chronic allergies, eczema, as well as irritable bowel disease. Replacing DAO, if you are deficient in that enzyme, provides significant interim relief. Systematic, structured dietary interventions help restore gut health to minimize long-term dependence on exogenous enzymes.
The Microbiome is important.
We have far more bacterial DNA in our body than our own DNA. The balance of microbiome in our gut relates to sensitivity and susceptibility to gut symptoms. Supporting a healthy and balanced intestinal microbial community is essential for the integrity of the immune system. The disruption of the ecosystem in our gut is linked to obesity, Parkinson’s disease, constipation and susceptibility to numerous psychiatric disorders. A Functional Medicine approach to improve gut health includes nutritional interventions that reduce the fermentation of carbohydrates in the gut to help address bacterial and fungal overgrowth, as well as an elimination diet that removes trigger foods to potentially reduce inflammation. Meal spacing and intermittent fasting can help alleviate slow bowel motility.
Treating Leaky Gut.
Personalized therapeutic interventions that focus on modifiable lifestyle factors optimize immune system function while supporting gut health. Such lifestyle modifications can include the following:
- Therapeutic food plans
- Multi-strain probiotic supplementation
- Restorative sleep
- Movement and exercise plans
- Reduction of dietary triggers and toxic exposures
- Stress management or transformation
The Gut-Brain connection.
What about IBS?
The relationship between gastrointestinal dysfunction, nutrition, and chronic disease is multifaceted, compelling, and complex. At Heal n Cure, we have the foundational background, insights, and the capability for in-depth clinical analysis to confidently treat patients with comorbidities fueled by gastrointestinal dysfunction.
To learn more about the treatment, schedule a free 15-minute consultation with our Wellness Coordinator or call our office (847) 686-4444
