What is Leaky Gut?

Leaky gut is also known as intestinal permeability. It is a condition that affects the mucosal lining of the intestine, which is the barrier from the GI tract into the bloodstream. When the gut lining gets damaged, compounds and toxins that normally do not enter the bloodstream are able to seep  in and cause an immune response.Some of the symptoms of leaky gut are food sensitivities, bloating, joint pain, fatigue, headaches, skin issues, digestive problems, weight gain, and thyroid conditions. Additionally, leaky gut can cause the malabsorption of zinc, iron, and vitamin B12.  Leaky gut also affects brain function through the gut-brain axis and may result in conditions like  anxiety, PTDS, autism, Parkinsons, Alzheimers, depression and focus issues. Causes of leaky gut include medications, alcohol use, stress, low fiber and high sugar diet, milk, gluten, lectins and other grains.Certain foods have been shown to help  heal leaky gut such as bone broth, fermented foods, sprouted seeds, and omega-3 fatty acids. Supplements taken to aid in repair are glutamine, marshmallow root, slippery elm, licorice root, digestive enzymes, probiotics, aloe, bitters, and quercetin.