Leaky Gut Syndrome, also known as LGS or increaesd intestinal permeability is a major overlooked cause of autoimmune attack and chronic illness. Did you know that during a typical lifespan 60 tons of food pass through the intestinal tract? Of course, along with food there are also bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and other irritants that pass through the GI tract as well.
The intestine's job is to selectively absorb what is good for us and reject what is bad. Talk about a tough job with such a large surface area. Becase the job is so tough, most of the cells of the digestive tract are replaced every 3-4 days and are protected with a multitude of secretions from the cells such as mucuous, enzymes and immune system substances such as secretory IgA.
So What is Leaky Gut Syndrome or increased intestinal permeability? The cells that make up the lining of the gut is only one cell layer thick and can be easily damaged. Remember that the cells that make up this lining live only for 3-4 days and they have extremely high metabolic activity along with intense nutritional demands. Leaky Gut Syndrome refers to how larger molecules can bypass the protective layer of the gut epithelium (lining) and enter the blood. All material that traverses the digestive tract wall (mucosa) is inspected by the immune system, and it is here that the immune system may have its greatest antigenic exposure. Increased gut permeability can permit exogenous antigens (ones that should have been left to exit in the stool) to enter the systemic circulation. If the antibodies generated towards gut antigens cross-react with the body’s own immunologically similar tissues, the resulting process may manifest itself as an autoimmune disease. It is important to note that the cells of the gut epithelium are joined together by tight junctions (special proteins including zonulin and occludin), so that there are no gaps between the intestinal cells lining the gut. The main way nutrients are suppossed to enter the body is through the epithelial cells to be absorbed. In this way the gut is able to strictly regulate what substances enter the body.
abdominal pain
chronic joint pain
chronic muscle pain
asthma
fuzzy or foggy thinking
confusion, poor concentration
flatulence, indigestion
mood swings, nervousness, anxiety
poor immunity, recurrent vaginal infections
bloating, diarrhea or constipation
poor memory
aggressive behaviour
fatigue
autoimmune disease
celiac disease
Crohn's disease
hives, allergies
inflammatory joint disease, arthritis
intestinal infections
pancreatic insufficiency
ulcerative colitis
chronic fatigue syndrome
eczema, psoriasis
food allergies and sensitivities
liver dysfunction/overload
irritable bowel syndrome
The two most serious consequences of LGS are compromised liver function and autoimmune conditions. These two consequences often lead to a long search for help from traditional doctors as LGS is seldom considered as a causitive factor in most illnesses. Instead the various symptoms are treated with drugs or as conditions worsen, surgery.
The aging process | AIDS with diarrhea |
HIV | Alcoholism |
Malnutrition | Burns |
NSAIDS | Cancer |
Pancreatitis | Celiac disease |
Psoriasis | Certain drugs |
Radiation therapy | Chemotherapy |
Rheumatoid arthritis | Chronic hepatitis |
Shock or anaphylaxis | Crohn's disease |
Toxic shock syndrome | Cystic fibrosis |
Trauma | Giardia and other parasites |
Ulcerative colitis | Gluten sensitivity |
The good news is that specialized testing to determine if LGS is a potental source of your chronic condition is a STANDARD test that I employ in my initial assesment of those who seek my care and advice.
If LGS is discovered, there is a specific 6 step protocol called the 6R protocol that I employ as part of the designed individualized treatment program. The general outline for the "6R Protocol" is:
Of course this "6R Protocol" is customized for each individual.
If you would like to obtain a case review and detailed testing for your chronic condition call 586-731-8840 or visit this page of my website for additional information.
If you found value in this article, please use the social sharing icons at the top of this post and please share with those you know who are still suffering with chronic health challenges or autoimmune issues despite having medical managment. Thank you, help me reach more people so they may regain their zest for living!
Always remember one of my mantras., "The more you know about how your body works, the better you can take care of yourself."
For more details about the natural approach I take with my patients, take a look at the book I wrote entitled: Reclaim Your Life; Your Guide To Revealing Your Body's Life-Changing Secrets For Renewed Health. It is available in my office or at Amazon and many other book outlets. If you found value in this article, please use the social sharing icons at the top of this post and please share with those you know who are still suffering with chronic health challenges, despite receiving medical management. Help me reach more people so they may regain their zest for living! Thank you!