Could a recently discovered condition be the underlying cause of various health issues, ranging from acne and depression to autoimmune diseases and even cancer? There’s growing evidence suggesting this may be the case, and the condition in question is called Leaky Gut Syndrome.

Leaky Gut Syndrome occurs when the intestines become inflamed, leading to two primary issues:

1. The body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food becomes compromised. Even if we consume enough nutrients, they may not be properly absorbed, resulting in potential deficiencies.
2. The intestinal walls become more permeable, allowing substances to leak into the bloodstream. This triggers an inflammatory response, which can contribute to a wide range of health problems.

So, what causes the initial inflammation in the intestines? While there are several potential culprits, many experts believe that gluten is a primary contributor to leaky gut. As a result, gluten-free and grain-free diets are gaining popularity—and for good reason. Going grain-free not only helps with weight loss but also reduces inflammation in the body, alleviating various aches and pains. Other common factors contributing to leaky gut include chronic use of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and aspirin), excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, chronic stress, and imbalances in intestinal bacteria (dysbiosis).

Diagnosing Leaky Gut Syndrome can be challenging. While there are several laboratory findings that may suggest its presence, there’s no definitive test. However, if you experience the following symptoms, you may have an issue with your intestines:

1. Digestive problems like gas, bloating, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
2. Seasonal allergies or asthma.
3. Hormonal imbalances such as PMS or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
4. Diagnosis of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, lupus, psoriasis, or celiac disease.
5. Chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia.
6. Mood and cognitive issues like depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder (ADD), or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
7. Skin conditions like acne, rosacea, or eczema.
8. Candida overgrowth.
9. Food allergies or intolerances.

If you are struggling with any of these symptoms and suspect an issue with your intestinal health, how can you go about healing your gut? The process typically involves three steps:

1. Remove irritants: Eliminate foods or chemicals that may be irritating your intestines. This includes cutting out dairy, grains, and sugar. Additionally, reducing stress and avoiding NSAIDs and antibiotics can be beneficial.
2. Replace harmful foods with healthier options: Focus on organic vegetables, fruits, meats, and nuts/seeds.
3. Repair the intestine with vitamins and supplements: The specific protocol may vary, so it's advisable to consult with one of our doctors before making any changes. However, common recommendations include:
   • Taking digestive enzymes with meals to aid in proper food breakdown.
   • Using L-Glutamine to repair intestinal damage, typically at a dosage of 500 mg three times per day.
   • Rebuilding healthy gut flora with probiotics.
   • Supplementing with Omega-3 fish oil (1500-2000 mg per day).
   • Ensuring adequate Vitamin D3 intake (5000 IU per day).

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or suspect an issue with your intestinal health, we encourage you to discuss it during your next appointment or schedule a consultation with Dr. Brad or Dr. Mandy.

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