Leaky gut affects a large number of people around the world although some health professionals do not recognize it as a serious health problem. Leaky gut is the depletion of the mucous lining within the intestinal wall that prevents larger particles, toxins, and bacteria from entering the bloodstream. This increased intestinal permeability or “leak” into the bloodstream triggers an immune response in the body causing inflammation that leads to other health conditions. This is largely caused by poor diet, overuse of antibiotics, and overgrowth of bacteria and yeast in the bowels. Leaky gut is allegedly linked to other health conditions such as food allergies, skin conditions, chronic fatigue, migraines, and even multiple sclerosis.
Some symptoms of Leaky Gut syndrome include:
- Bloating
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Chronic fatigue
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Headaches
- Skin problems
- Joint Pain
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Inflammation
Although many doctors and healthcare professionals do not recognize Leaky Gut syndrome as a diagnosable condition, it is recognized as a widespread problem in holistic and alternative medicine. In Ayurveda, all diseases start in the gut, especially when there are toxins (Ama) leaking into the bloodstream. This can lead to widespread health concerns through the entire body, physically and emotionally.
Nutrient deficiency is an incredibly damaging affect of leaky gut. Lack of proper vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants can cause immeasurable amounts of health problems. Deficiencies cause digestions issues, skin disorders, osteoporosis, hair loss, poor eye health, anemia, decreased immunity, weight loss, high blood pressure and many other conditions. On top of these physical conditions, nutritional deficiencies can also cause mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, memory loss, irritability, and dementia.
Leaky gut will also increase the damage that alcohol consumption causes. Excessive alcohol consumption causes long term affects to the brain that results in nerve damage and lasting neurological problems such as neuropathy, myopathy, weakness and vision issues. If the lining within your intestinal wall is damaged or depleted, you will feel the effects of alcohol more intensely.
The most beneficial way of addressing leaky gut is to remove any and all inflammatory foods from the diet to allow the body to heal the natural lining of the intestines. Then, slowly, introduce foods back in and monitor how they affect you. Healing the gut wall can take time so be patient and gentle with you bod. Support it by eating living and nutrient dense foods as well as taking herbs and supplements that can help detox any existing toxins (ama) that are left in the bloodstream and liver. Before taking any herbs or supplements, it is important to see a health care profession about it first.
If you think you may be dealing with a leaky gut, contact us and we would be more than happy to assist you in this healing journey and provide you with the necessary tools to get you back to a balanced gut. You can contact us by either emailing us at info@santacruzayurveda.com or give us a call anytime at (831) 295-6279. We can discuss your symptoms and find the best way to get you back on track with our gut healing protocol.
We hope you are having a great week and we look forward to talking with you!
Resources:
What to Know About Leaky Gut Syndrome, Medical News Today
Vitamin Deficiencies and Mental Health, Current Psychiatry
Leaky Gut Syndrome, National Health Service