2. WHAT IS LEAKY GUT SYNDROME?
Medically termed as “Hyperpermeable
Intestines”
A condition in which the intestines
become more porous due to the hole
formation and enlargement.
Due to this damage in the intestinal
lining, the body’s ability to protect
internal flora becomes lessened.
In this condition, the unhealthy
bacteria, toxins, wastes, as well as
incompletely digested proteins and
fats are not processed completely. So,
they leak out of the gut.
3. THE ROLE THAT THE INTESTINES PLAY IN OUR
IMMUNE SYSTEM
The balance of the good and bad bacteria in the
intestines keeps the digestive tract healthy and normally
functioning.
Factors such as stress, diet, and medication use (e.g.
antibiotic therapy) can alter the balance of the intestinal
flora.
When this occurs, the bad bacteria wins over the good
bacteria. Thus, this leads to the development of
gastrointestinal disturbances such as in the case of
leaky gut syndrome.
70-85% of the immune system is located in the
intestines. So, maintaining a healthy balance of the
normal intestinal flora aids in boosting the immune
system.
4. CAUSES OF LEAKY GUT SYNDROME
Diet: Consumption of high amounts of food products such as
processed foods, preservatives, refined sugar, refined flours,
and flavorings. These are identified by the intestines as toxins.
Zinc deficiency: Zinc plays a vital role in the maintenance of
the intestinal lining integrity. Lack of Zinc causes the
weakened intestinal lining which leads to its increased
permeability.
Inflammation: Any type of gut inflammation can contribute to
its development. These may be caused by bacteria, yeasts,
parasites, environmental toxins, and low stomach acid.
Chronic Stress; This suppresses the normal functioning of
the immune system. As the immune system gets impaired, it
becomes overwhelmed with fighting the pathogens that
threaten the body health. Weakened immune system leads to
more inflammation.
5. CAUSES OF LEAKY GUT SYNDROME
Yeast overgrowth: Yeast is actually a normal
organism found in the intestines. However, when its
growth becomes out of hand, it converts into a
multi-celled fungus (Candida). Candida have finger-
like projections that grab into the intestinal lining
and stays there. Then, these make their holes into
the gut.
Medications: Some medications such as
acetaminophen and aspirin can cause irritation of
the mucosal lining (membrane that protects the
intestines). This can either start or aggravate
intestinal inflammation which leads to increased gut
permeability.
6. SYMPTOMS OF LEAKY GUT SYNDROME
Multiple food sensitivities
Cravings for carbs and sugar
Bloating and gas
Nutritional deficiencies particularly lack of the
essential minerals and vitamins in the body
Chronic diarrhea and constipation
Headaches, brain fog, memory loss, and excessive
fatigue
Skin rashes
Anxiety
7. CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH LEAKY GUT
SYNDROME
chronic diarrhea or abdominal pain (Crohn’s
disease, Colitis, Celiac, and Irritable bowel
syndrome)
pain in multiple joints (arthritis)
chronic skin condition such as psoariasis, acne and
eczema
allergies
chronic fatigue
chronic depression
malaise
8. BENEFITS OF PROBIOTICS
Probiotics are live microorganisms
that are beneficial to the body. These
microorganisms, particularly bacteria,
can cause several health benefits to
the body.
The bacteria in probiotics aids in the
repair of the intestinal wall. This effect
of probiotics in the repair of leaky gut
syndrome have been studied before.
Aside from that, probiotics help to
establish balance between the good
and bad bacteria in the intestines.
Thus, creating a balance that
promotes digestive health and
improved immune system.
9. STUDIES ABPUT THE USE OF PROBIOTICS FOR
LEAKY GUT SYNDROME TREATMENT
Based on several studies, various strains of Lactobacillus
have shown positive results in the treatment of leaky gut
syndrome.
In a study published in the Journal of Pediatrics (2003),
Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus rheuteri have
been given in children with atopic dermatitis which is a
condition that causes gastrointestinal problems such as leaky
gut syndrome. The findings indicated that probiotics have
contributes to the improvement in gastrointestinal conditions
of the pediatric subjects.
Also, in a study that was in Letters in Applied Microbiology
(2006), Lactobacillus plantarum can decrease the intestinal
permeability in biliary obstruction (a condition in which the
tubes that carry bile from the liver coming from gallbladder
and small intestines are blocked.
According to a study contained in the APMIS (January 2011),
Lactobacillus casei can prevent alteration in the barrier
function of the epithelial cells.
10. BEST PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTS FOR LEAKY
GUT SYNDROME
Effective probiotics for digestive
problems such as in leaky gut
syndrome should contain high doses
of live active microorganisms.
This is because the intestines
contains trillions of bacteria. So, the
probiotics which contain only millions
of live microorganisms would not be
enough to replenish and restore
intestinal flora balance.
The best probiotic for leaky gut
syndrome should contain at least five
billion live active cells of probiotic
bacteria.
11. MY FAVORITE PROBIOTIC
Probacto is the best probiotic that I
have ever run into. They use multiple
strains and they are spore forming so
they can last while not refrigerated.
They do not use cheap bacteria, but
expensive ones such as B. Subtilis.
Probacto also contains prebiotics to
help stimulate the growth of beneficial
bacteria in your gut.
Probacto contains digestive enzymes
to assist in your digestion.
Probacto is enteric coated and made to
be slow release so it will release in
your gut gradually.
12. BEST PROBIOTIC FOOD SOURCES FOR LEAKY
GUT SYNDROME
Some of the probiotic-containing
foods that are recommended for
leaky gut syndrome includes:
Kimchi, kefir, and sauerkraut
Yogurt and milk
Mushrooms, leeks, artichokes,
onions, asparagus
Bananas
13. CONCLUSION
Probiotics are widely available in various forms of
products such as supplements and fermented
foods. Many of the probiotic strains contained in
these products are not widely tested in humans.
Though there are some which are widely studied
but are not easily and readily available. Also, the
regulation in the manufacture of these products are
not entirely strict just like in the case of drugs. This
is because probiotics are considered as food
supplements instead of drugs. So, in order to
ensure effectiveness and quality, you must go with
a reputable company.
