What exactly is leaky gut?

In this video, I explain the basics of leaky gut and what you can do to start improving it. If you ever experience skin issues, joint pain, or unexplained bloating you should keep reading. It is quite possible you could have leaky gut. 

Leaky gut is a condition where the intestinal permeability in your gut cellular wall is compromised. This means that particles are leaking out of your gut and into your blood stream that should not be. Your blood stream then carries those particles throughout your entire body, bringing inflammation with it. For this reason, there are a variety of symptoms that you can present with. 

Did you know that 70% of your immune system is housed right outside of your gut? This means that when our cells are letting particles leak through, our immune system is now also compromised. This can lead to increased illness, low energy, and more sensitivity to foods that may have never bothered you before. The solution isn't always to stop eating the irritating food forever, but instead giving your gut the time and nutrients to heal.

Since the immune system is involved, there can be a greater chance to develop an autoimmune condition like Hashimoto's hypothyroidism. Through my medical experience, I know that where there is one autoimmune condition there is likely more to be found. This is why healing the gut is a critical first step for your overall health. 

If you aren't sure you have this condition based on symptoms alone, there is a test for it. I test zonulin levels and inflammation on my clients to evaluate their gut cell wall status. After determining this, we implement a protocol unique to them to begin the healing process. Common ways to heal this condition includes: 

• L-glutamine 
• Prebiotics and probiotics
• Fermented foods 
• Avoid alcohol, sugars, and dairy 
• Organic greens powder 
• Zinc 
• Multivitamins 
• Bone Broth 
• Anti-inflammatory diet 

An important principle for healing most things in the body is that you need to stop what is known as the offending agent. Think of a sink overflowing and water rising on the floor. Sure, you can start mopping up the floor but unless you turn off the sink the water keeps flowing. This is why finding a root cause for your symptoms is vital. I make sure my clients know how to turn off the sink and stop the symptoms, not just throw them a mop. 

If you are interested in getting your levels checked or have any questions on leaky gut, please reach out to me at [email protected]

Stay Healthi, 

Hannah