{"id":33771,"date":"2025-02-11T00:27:33","date_gmt":"2025-02-11T00:27:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/"},"modified":"2025-02-11T00:27:33","modified_gmt":"2025-02-11T00:27:33","slug":"what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Leaky Gut Syndrome? Causes, Symptoms, and Relief"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#What_is_Leaky_Gut_Syndrome\" >What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#What_Causes_Leaky_Gut\" >What Causes Leaky Gut?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Medications\" >Medications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Stress\" >Stress<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Diet_and_Lifestyle\" >Diet and Lifestyle<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Bacterial_Imbalance_and_Overgrowth\" >Bacterial Imbalance and Overgrowth<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Diseases_Associated_with_Leaky_Gut\" >Diseases Associated with Leaky Gut<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Celiac_Disease\" >Celiac Disease<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Diabetes\" >Diabetes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Crohns_Disease\" >Crohn\u2019s Disease<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Irritable_Bowel_Syndrome\" >Irritable Bowel Syndrome<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Food_Allergies\" >Food Allergies<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Symptoms_of_Leaky_Gut\" >Symptoms of Leaky Gut<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Is_Leaky_Gut_a_Cause_or_Symptom_of_Disease\" >Is Leaky Gut a Cause or Symptom of Disease?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Some_Claims_About_Leaky_Gut_are_Not_Backed_by_Science\" >Some Claims About Leaky Gut are Not Backed by Science<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Leaky_Gut_Diet\" >Leaky Gut Diet<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Foods_to_avoid\" >Foods to avoid<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Foods_to_Eat\" >Foods to Eat<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Other_Ways_to_Improve_Your_Gut_Health\" >Other Ways to Improve Your Gut Health<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/what-is-leaky-gut-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-relief\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>Leaky gut syndrome, or \u201cLeaky Gut\u201d, is a condition where the gut barrier becomes damaged and the intestinal wall becomes permeable. This allows food particles, chemical additives, potential pathogens (bad bacteria, viruses, fungi) and other substances that we take into our body via the mouth to leak through the gut barrier into the bloodstream. The body detects these as \u201cforeign\u201d invaders and coordinates an immune response. If this cycle continues over a longer period of time, it can lead to an overreaction of the immune system. This can manifest in allergies, skin flare ups, headaches and migraine, autoimmune diseases and even impact mood and cognition. The body\u2019s gut bacteria play a critical role in maintaining a healthy gut barrier function. In this article, we will go over what leaky gut is, some possible risk factors, symptoms and associated issues, and, finally, things you can do to improve your gut health.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h.en8zb7m8hn74\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Leaky_Gut_Syndrome\"><\/span>What is Leaky Gut Syndrome?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The gut (i.e., the small and large intestines) is lined by a thin, single layer of cells that separate the contents of the intestines from the bloodstream. This single layer of cells is also referred to as the gut barrier. These cells are held together by tight junctions, the gateway for what can pass from your large intestines into the bloodstream. During digestion, food is broken down into nutrients. Nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream via the gut barrier. The gut barrier acts as the gatekeeper to ensure that potentially harmful substances such as chemicals, food additives and pathogens don\u2019t enter the bloodstream. The billions of good bacteria in the small and large intestine (aka \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.omnibioticlife.com\/what-are-probiotics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">probiotics<\/a>\u201d) play a central role in maintaining a healthy gut barrier. For example, certain strains of probiotic bacteria produce a mucous layer that lines the gut barrier and acts as a protective shield. Unfortunately, external factors such as food additives, allergens, chemicals, medications and stress can disrupt the healthy balance of probiotic bacteria in the gut. As a result, the environment in the gut becomes imbalanced. This can lead to a reduction in the mucous layer that protects our gut wall and eventually inflammation in the gut. This inflammatory process breaks open the tight junctions. Now, all the substances that typically don\u2019t reach the bloodstream leak through the tight junctions into the body. The body\u2019s immune system then detects these invaders and triggers an immune response.\u00a0<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-10371 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0567\/5057\/1655\/files\/Leaky-GUt.jpg\" alt=\"graphic-of-the-inner-walls-of-the-gut-showing-normal-tight-junctions-and-a-leaky-gut-side-by-side\" width=\"600\" height=\"309\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h.jqikjwos48na\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Causes_Leaky_Gut\"><\/span>What Causes Leaky Gut?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Leaky gut still remains somewhat of a mystery to many healthcare practitioners and researchers. No \u201csingle cause\u201d of leaky gut has been identified. However, there are many factors that can increase the risk of leaky gut.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.hackm7euq86d\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Medications\"><\/span>Medications<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-10365 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0567\/5057\/1655\/files\/Medications.jpg\" alt=\"various-pills-and-capsules-of-different-sizes-and-colors\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/>\u00a0Certain medications, including antibiotics, negatively impact the balance and diversity of good bacteria in your gut. This affects many processes in the body, including healthy food digestion. If your gut bacteria are diminished due to antibiotics and other medications, food is not properly digested and ends up rotting in your intestines. This, in turn, creates the perfect environment for harmful pathogens to flourish. As a result, your body activates its immune system, leading to inflammation, which over time breaks open the tight junctions causing a leaky gut. In addition,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC1727292\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">prolonged use of\u00a0<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC1727292\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">NSAIDs<\/a>\u00a0has been associated with an increase in intestinal permeability.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.wgelvh193fjk\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Stress\"><\/span>Stress<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Stress can also change the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/2012\/09\/gut-feeling\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">composition of the\u00a0<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/2012\/09\/gut-feeling\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">gut microbiome<\/a>, often reducing the quantity and diversity of bacterial species. These changes have been tied to increased inflammation and reduced gut barrier function. Interestingly, stress in the form of intense physical activity such as that\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.symmetryperformance.com\/about\/articles\/114-yes,-mat-helps-runners-get-back-in-their-game.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">experienced by performance athletes<\/a>\u00a0is also connected with increased inflammation and reduced barrier function in the gut.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.v3jrxye30hxl\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diet_and_Lifestyle\"><\/span>Diet and Lifestyle<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-10369 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0567\/5057\/1655\/files\/Sugar-donuts.jpg\" alt=\"womans-hand-with-painted-nails-holding-frosted-donuts\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/>\u00a0Sugar, processed foods, gluten and dairy are all highly inflammatory, especially if the gut is already under stress due to lifestyle factors, medications or an imbalance in the gut bacteria.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4266989\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Excessive alcohol intake<\/a>\u00a0has also been linked to increased intestinal permeability and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.omnibioticlife.com\/does-alcohol-affect-probiotics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">can kill off beneficial bacteria in the gut<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.36u6nj6u93xm\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bacterial_Imbalance_and_Overgrowth\"><\/span>Bacterial Imbalance and Overgrowth<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Once your intestinal bacteria are out of balance, there is an opportunity for potentially harmful bacteria to overgrow and flourish. This can manifest in intense food cravings (especially for sugar), bloating, gas, diarrhea and stomach pains. In response, the body triggers an immune reaction resulting in inflammation, which weakens the tight junctions and can lead to leaky gut.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h.gw6lqk27045q\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diseases_Associated_with_Leaky_Gut\"><\/span>Diseases Associated with Leaky Gut<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 id=\"h.jnrupskxstti\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Celiac_Disease\"><\/span>Celiac Disease<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease where individuals suffer from severe gluten intolerance. Symptoms include intense nausea, diarrhea or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.omnibioticlife.com\/do-probiotics-help-with-constipation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">constipation<\/a>, bloating and fatigue after ingesting gluten. Several studies have demonstrated a link between increased intestinal permeability and Celiac Disease. Specifically, it has been found that\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/18485912\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">gliadin<\/a>, a component of the gluten grain, increases zonulin, which is a marker for intestinal permeability and heightened in individuals with leaky gut.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.9tqt1mmizd2\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Diabetes\"><\/span>Diabetes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-10366 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0567\/5057\/1655\/files\/Doctor-Patient-With-Diabetes.jpg\" alt=\"doctor-administering-test-to-patient-with-diabetes\" width=\"600\" height=\"398\" \/>\u00a0Several studies have linked Type 1 diabetes with a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/19122519\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">negatively altered\u00a0<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/19122519\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">gut microbiome<\/a>, compromised immune function and increased intestinal permeability. Furthermore, metabolic syndrome has also been associated with changes in the composition of the gut microbiome as well as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/22629362\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">increased levels in\u00a0<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/22629362\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">zonulin<\/a>. Metabolic syndrome is defined as a group of conditions that occur together, including insulin resistance, high blood pressure and obesity.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.t38onwxdt2nt\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Crohns_Disease\"><\/span>Crohn\u2019s Disease<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Crohn\u2019s Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by high levels of inflammation in the digestive tract. Several studies point to increased levels of zonulin, once again pointing to a relationship between high levels of inflammation and leaky gut.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.skxwrph8ao32\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Irritable_Bowel_Syndrome\"><\/span>Irritable Bowel Syndrome<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder characterized by abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea and\/or constipation, and mucus in the stool. Once again, multiple\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/30160088\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">clinical studies<\/a>\u00a0have shown increased levels of zonulin for individuals with IBS.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.omnibioticlife.com\/omnibiotic\/stress-release\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">OMNi-BiOTiC\u24c7 STRESS Release<\/a>\u00a0was specifically formulated with IBS patients in mind.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1007\/s00394-018-1826-7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">In a clinical study<\/a>, IBS patients took OMNi-BiOTiC\u24c7 STRESS Release twice daily for four weeks. Study participants reported an 80% reduction in symptom severity, an increase in bacterial diversity in the gut, and an improvement in gut barrier function (measured by decrease in zonulin levels).<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.fpkp57l7wm1r\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Food_Allergies\"><\/span>Food Allergies<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Food allergies occur when the body activates an immune response against certain food particles that enter our bloodstream. In general, the body is very good at determining what particles that enter the bloodstream are \u201cgood\u201d for the body and which ones are \u201cbad.\u201d It then produces an immune response to get rid of the bad ones. When the gut becomes leaky, larger food particles such as gluten and lactose can cross the gut barrier into the bloodstream. Once these larger particles enter the bloodstream, the body develops an immune response. If this persists over longer periods of time, food sensitivities develop.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h.8c9oas6st3ui\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Symptoms_of_Leaky_Gut\"><\/span>Symptoms of Leaky Gut<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-10367 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0567\/5057\/1655\/files\/Woman-Pain.jpg\" alt=\"woman-in-pain-sitting-up-in-bed-holding-her-legs\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/>\u00a0The tricky thing with leaky gut is that it can manifest via a wide range of symptoms. Many of which are also common for other digestive disorders such as IBS, Crohn\u2019s and even auto-immune issues such as eczema. Several of the most common symptoms are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Chronic diarrhea or constipation<\/li>\n<li>Persistent bloating and flatulence<\/li>\n<li>Severe fatigue<\/li>\n<li>Headaches<\/li>\n<li>Difficulty concentrating<\/li>\n<li>Brain fog<\/li>\n<li>Joint pain<\/li>\n<li>Food intolerances<\/li>\n<li>Skin problems such as acne, eczema and psoriasis<\/li>\n<li>Widespread inflammation<\/li>\n<li>Nutritional deficiencies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"h.zlez5blh3cf\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Leaky_Gut_a_Cause_or_Symptom_of_Disease\"><\/span>Is Leaky Gut a Cause or Symptom of Disease?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There is an ongoing debate in the field of science and medicine whether leaky gut is a cause of disease or a symptom. One thing is clear: Studies have shown a strong link between several chronic diseases, especially autoimmune disorders, and increased gut permeability. In fact, the better that we understand the critical role of gut health and our good bacteria living in the gut, the stronger the link becomes between gut health and many chronic ailments. And this is not surprising. When the gut becomes leaky, foreign substances can enter the body, triggering an immune reaction. If this continues over long periods of time, the immune system becomes overburdened and the body becomes weakened. This is the beginning of a potentially vicious cycle of inflammation, immune reaction and illness.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h.6zp6h04jgbxs\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Some_Claims_About_Leaky_Gut_are_Not_Backed_by_Science\"><\/span>Some Claims About Leaky Gut are Not Backed by Science<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Clinical studies to date show sufficient evidence to demonstrate a clear link between leaky gut and chronic illnesses such as IBS, Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. At the same time, there are just as many open questions regarding the role of the gut in other illnesses that burden our society. Research on the role of the gut in health conditions such as Alzheimer\u2019s disease, anxiety, depression and autism is ever expanding. Critics of the emerging research argue that the existing clinical evidence is insufficient to draw conclusions and that at best we can establish a correlation rather than a causal link. As the field of microbiome research continues to expand, we will likely learn much more about the role of the gut in many common diseases.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"h.9qbhhrh5l9ur\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Leaky_Gut_Diet\"><\/span>Leaky Gut Diet<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-10373 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0567\/5057\/1655\/files\/Healthy-colorful-food.jpg\" alt=\"healthy-colorful-food-citrus-zucchini-beans-avocado\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.zb1ujco3c5ut\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Foods_to_avoid\"><\/span>Foods to avoid<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Avoid inflammatory foods. This includes: sugar, overly processed foods, foods filled with chemicals and food additives, gluten and dairy.<\/p>\n<h3 id=\"h.65manyq4knzh\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Foods_to_Eat\"><\/span>Foods to Eat<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Our good gut bacteria thrive when we eat a diet rich in fiber and whole foods. In fact, the fiber in vegetables, legumes and whole grains provide food for our probiotic bacteria, making them stronger. Foods to include for digestive health are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Plenty of vegetables, especially leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables<\/li>\n<li>Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and beets<\/li>\n<li>Gluten-free whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and gluten-free oats<\/li>\n<li>Legumes such as beans and lentils<\/li>\n<li>Nuts and seeds<\/li>\n<li>Healthy fats from avocado, coconut oil and olive oil<\/li>\n<li>High quality protein such as fish, meat and eggs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"h.a8yyshtqaor9\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_Ways_to_Improve_Your_Gut_Health\"><\/span>Other Ways to Improve Your Gut Health<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Eliminate things in your life that have a negative impact on gut health:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Alcohol has a negative impact on the diversity and quantity of your gut bacteria. It has been connected to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.arcr.niaaa.nih.gov\/arcr382\/article01.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">increased inflammation<\/a>\u00a0in the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, several studies link excessive alcohol to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4266989\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">increased gut permeability<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Smoking: Clinical studies have found a significant difference between the gut flora of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedaily.com\/releases\/2018\/04\/180430102503.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">non-smokers and smokers<\/a>. For example, smokers had lower levels of Bacteroides, which has been associated with Crohn\u2019s Disease.<\/li>\n<li>Stress changes the composition of the microbiome and can lead to inflammation in the gut. Finding ways to reduce stress is essential for a healthy gut as well as overall wellbeing. Great ways to reduce stress include walking, gentle to moderate exercise and meditation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Add more of the things that improve gut health:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>More sleep: Sleep allows the body to restore and detoxify. Insufficient sleep has been\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6779243\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">associated with several diseases<\/a>, including Alzheimer\u2019s disease and Type 2 diabetes. In humans, research has shown that sleep deprivation can alter the composition of the gut bacteria in\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pubmed\/27900260\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">as little as 48 hours<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Probiotics are a powerful mechanism to restore and maintain a healthy gut microbiome and strong gut barrier function. When choosing your probiotic supplement, make sure to pick a high-quality, multispecies and multistrain probiotic that is tailored to your needs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"h.9dpisj2mg8vp\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Leaky gut occurs when the gut barrier becomes permeable. This can be triggered by external factors such as stress, medications, a diet heavy in sugars and processed foods. Once these substances enter the bloodstream, the body produces an immune response. Unfortunately, this often starts a vicious cycle of inflammation, digestive issues and chronic ailments. The most critical step to repairing the gut barrier is to focus on restoring and maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut. Taking a high-quality probiotic supplement, such as OMNi-BiOTiC\u24c7, helps restore a healthy balance of probiotic bacteria in the gut, while reducing inflammation and improving gut barrier function. Furthermore, reducing negative factors that impact gut health, such as stress, processed foods and alcohol intake as well as increasing positive factors, such as sleep and a balanced diet will help maintain a healthy gut.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Leaky gut syndrome, or \u201cLeaky Gut\u201d, is a condition where the gut barrier becomes damaged and the intestinal wall becomes permeable. This allows food particles, chemical additives, potential pathogens (bad bacteria, viruses, fungi) and other substances that we take into our body via the mouth to leak through the gut barrier into the bloodstream. The [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4151,"featured_media":33770,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[408],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-33771","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33771","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4151"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33771"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33771\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":33772,"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33771\/revisions\/33772"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/33770"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33771"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33771"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zamstudios.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33771"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}