Largely unknown to the general public, it affects more than 60% of the population.
The symptoms are not limited to the digestive system and can even lead to autoimmune diseases.
What is a leaky gut ?
The intestine is made up of a tight barrier that only allows certain nutrients to pass through: trace elements, proteins broken down into amino acids, carbohydrates, and fatty acids. Under normal conditions, intestinal cells absorb the necessary elements and release them into the bloodstream. This tightness is ensured by tight junctions (shown in yellow below) between the cells.
Permeability and Junctions
As a result, all elements enter the cells through regulated absorption channels and mechanisms (illustrated by the blue flow). No unwanted molecules should cross this tight barrier.
When tight junctions are damaged, it allows many pathogens (bacteria, proteins, etc.) to infiltrate, disrupting digestion and affecting the entire body. These foreign molecules can saturate receptors meant for other essential substances on various organs (such as hormones and neurotransmitters). Often, the immune system detects these molecules and launches an unnecessary allergic-like immune response.
In advanced cases, this immune disorder can turn against the body's own organs, leading to autoimmune diseases.
What are the risk factors?
Leaky Gut is associated with inflammation of intestinal cells. Here are the main risk factors:
- Chronic use of anti-inflammatory drugs
- Stress
- Alcohol consumption
- Candida infection (see related article: Candida Infection)
- Viruses and food poisoning
- Intense physical activity
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms are many, making them difficult to identify independently. They are often linked to other serious conditions. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Chronic intestinal diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
- Diarrhea, bloating
- Food allergies (milk, gluten, etc.)
- Thyroid disorders
- Meniere’s disease
- Joint and muscle pain (fibromyalgia)
- Autoimmune diseases (such as multiple sclerosis)
- Mineral absorption deficiencies
- Sleep and neurotransmitter disorders (see related article: Feed your brain)
- Depression, anxiety, hyperactivity
What can be done?
A medical consultation is necessary to determine whether your intestine has become overly permeable. Self-diagnosis is difficult in this case.
The first step is to reduce inflammation through a specific diet, which typically excludes cow’s milk proteins, gluten, and sometimes citrus fruits and raw vegetables for a period of time. These elements can irritate the intestine and worsen permeability.
The next step is to repair the damaged gut lining. This can involve a targeted diet, probiotics, and intestinal healing agents, depending on individual needs. However, it is crucial to choose the right probiotics, as different bacterial strains play specific roles in immune regulation. The treatment must be adapted based on the conditions associated with your gut.
This protocol generally lasts 4 to 6 months. Although changing eating habits for several months may seem challenging, the benefits are worth it. Once healed, your intestine may be able to tolerate foods that previously triggered unpleasant allergic reactions.
Not to mention the boost in energy levels!
I will soon be sharing some dairy-free and gluten-free recipes in my "Recipes" section to help you with this transition. The gluten-free walnut bread is particularly delicious! 😊