What does a Leaky Gut Mean?

A leaky gut is a digestive health concern that causes uncomfortable symptoms for many people. Most people aren’t aware they have this chronic issue, but they know they feel “bad” and struggle to maintain optimal health and wellness. If you’re suffering from chronic digestive problems preventing you from maintaining adequate health, we can help you determine if you have a leaky gut.

What Is A Leaky Gut?

If you’ve heard this term before, you may wonder what a leaky gut means. Before we explore the causes of this digestive issue, let’s talk about what it is. The body has over 4,000 square feet of surface area containing intestinal lining. This lining provides a strong barrier that controls what goes into the bloodstream and prevents toxins from passing through. If the lining has a crack or leak, parts of food and toxins can slip through and break through the tissue behind the lining.

What Does A Leaky Gut Mean?

A leaky gut is a general term for various digestive health issues when the root cause is unknown. Food, toxins, and other harmful bacteria can enter through a damaged lining, triggering uncomfortable symptoms such as:

Chronic diarrhea or constipation
Joint pain
Headaches
Fatigue
Inflammation
Trouble concentrating

You may experience the symptoms of a leaky gut for many reasons. Although the intestinal barrier is strong, it is not impenetrable. Medications, stress, alcohol, processed sugar, and genetics are a few factors that can break down the intestinal barrier. If left untreated, a leaky gut can lead to more severe health issues like autoimmune conditions, celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and other health issues.

Can You Recover From A Leaky Gut?

Some research suggests several reasons that contribute to a leaky gut. The good news is that the body can recover from the effects of this digestive issue so that you can restore your health. As the intestinal barrier breaks down, toxins can reduce healthy gut bacteria, lowering immunity and triggering infections. The first step toward recovery is boosting nutrition to restore malnutrition and help prevent future deficiencies.

There is no specific remedy for every leaky gut case. A functional and holistic approach can help restore your health so you can begin feeling better. Making lifestyle and dietary changes enhances your health and helps your digestive system recover:

Avoiding processed sugars, artificial and processed foods
Include prebiotic and probiotic-rich foods
Reduce dairy, and eggs
Exercise regularly
Practice relaxation techniques
Dark, leafy greens
Berries
Nuts and seeds

Including some of these foods in your diet can help set your digestive system on the road to recovery.

Contact Us For Help With Digestive Concerns

You don’t have to wait for help and support if you’re suffering from digestive health concerns. At The Gut Authority, Dr. Masher can provide the guidance and support you need to live healthier today. We serve people near Mobile, AL, Pensacola, FL, and the surrounding areas. Together, we can create a plan to get your health and wellness back on track so you can enjoy life again.