Baldwin County Residents Learn If Probiotics Help Leaky Gut

Though most doctors don’t consider leaky gut syndrome (LGS), or increased intestinal permeability, an actual condition, there’s no denying that it is gaining in popularity as an actual diagnosable condition. Many people are starting to pay attention to their bodies and the way their diet affects both their physical and mental health. There are many lifestyle changes that can be made to help with a leaky gut, including the use of probiotics, but do these supplements really work?

What is a Leaky Gut?

To understand the use of probiotics, it helps to know how the gastrointestinal system works and how LGS affects it. First, the intestinal lining housed within the belly is a large network that controls what is allowed to pass through into the bloodstream. If this lining becomes unhealthy, it may develop large holes that permit the passage of bacteria, toxins, and even partially digested food into the bloodstream.

LGS also affects the gut flora which is the normal, “good” bacteria held within the GI tract that helps the body with digestion. When this is disrupted, GI issues and inflammation may occur, along with certain diseases including lupus, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and even asthma. Though this syndrome has some links to genetics, overwhelming evidence points to stress and diets high in sugar, alcohol, and saturated fats.

What Are Probiotics?

While most of us think of the term “bacteria” within a negative context, when it comes to probiotics, bacteria is a good thing. In fact, they are beneficial bacteria that can be found in supplements and some foods. These microorganisms inhabit the GI tract and help with digestion and nutrition. 

Additionally, they help to:

• Protect the mucosal barrier
• Prevent the harmful effects of pathogens and xenobiotics
• Aid in the maturation of the immune system

How Do They Help with LGS?

So now that we know probiotics are great for the body, how can they help with leaky gut syndrome? With this condition, they are beneficial in numerous ways, including:

• Helping to break down food, allowing for better absorption of nutrients and less irritation from undigested foods
• Working to distinguish yeast and bad bacteria
• Aiding the intestinal lining in deciphering what to block and what to allow through to the bloodstream
• Reducing zonulin, or the protein that regulates the permeability of the intestines
• Providing mucosal homeostasis by promoting mucus production within the intestines which adds an additional layer of protection

How to Get Them

For most people, supplements may be the fastest and easiest way to obtain probiotics. High doses may be required to treat LGS. Fortunately, unlike some vitamin and nutritional supplements, higher doses of these rarely provide harmful side effects.

If you are looking to find ways to incorporate them into your diet, there are several options, especially in fermented foods and drinks. These include:

• Yogurt
• Kombucha Tea
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Some Cheeses

Call For Additional Support

With or without leaky gut syndrome, it is obvious that probiotics have several benefits for the body. If you would like to learn more about your body, how it functions, and better ways to support it, call our team at The Gut Authority. Our desire is to see all of our clients live a healthy, fulfilling life by providing them with the right education and proper tools to succeed.