Health

Leaky gut syndrome – Information and recommendations

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition in which, as the name suggests, there is an abnormally high permeability of the intestine, probably through the alteration of the intestinal mucosa and the actual structure of the intestinal junctions. In healthy people, the mucosa has the role of a semi-permeable barrier, which allows the absorption of water and nutrients in the blood. In this syndrome, we are talking about high intestinal permeability (hyperpermeability), which can allow large molecules, toxins, bacteria, and undigested particles to pass from the intestine into the blood. Therefore, particularly complex and fatal complications can be reached.

Although it is not yet recognized as a formal clinical diagnosis, leaky gut syndrome is considered to be, indeed, a real problem, but it is not known whether it is still a disease in itself that causes other conditions or a pathological phenomenon secondary to the occurrence of a disease. The phenomenon of leaky gut in children, for example, is relatively more common, but in much milder and limited forms. The treatment of leaky gut is, moreover, relatively difficult, because the causes that lead to it are not fully known. However, it appears that the leaky gut diet may play a particularly important role.

Leaky gut syndrome – causes and risk factors

The human intestine is covered by an epithelial barrier formed by a single layer of cells, linked together by tight junctions. These junctions dictate what can and cannot pass through the intestinal walls into the bloodstream. Under normal conditions, this structure will allow the absorption of water and nutrients but will prevent toxins, microorganisms, or particles that have not been digested from entering the blood. In people with leaky gut syndrome, these junctions do not work properly, which will lead to increased intestinal permeability. In essence, this phenomenon allows the passage of unwanted substances into the blood and the emergence of complications.

The causes that lead to leaky gut syndrome are not exactly known, but a series of risk factors have been identified that can predispose a person to this condition:

Unbalanced diet and food allergies

Excessive consumption of refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and processed foods (with a high content of additives) can damage the intestinal mucosa and also disrupt the intestinal flora (all the bacteria at this level). The consumption of gluten (wheat protein), for example, stimulates the production of zonulin, a protein that can open the tight junctions at the intestinal level, thus increasing the permeability of the intestine. Certain food allergies can also cause increased intestinal permeability. Leaky gut syndrome can occur as a result of constant exposure to allergenic factors of food origin.

Consumption of alcohol and anti-inflammatory drugs

Excessive alcohol consumption and long-term administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, etc.) can affect the intestinal mucosa, which will increase the risk of developing leaky gut syndrome. Such substances can lead to inflammation and irritation of the intestinal walls, thus affecting the structural integrity of the intestinal barrier.

Imbalance of intestinal microflora

Intestinal bacteria can stimulate the release of zonulin, which has been mentioned to act by increasing intestinal permeability. It was found that increased serum levels of zonulin occur especially in people with increased densities of enteroviruses in the intestinal mucosa and usually in association with celiac disease, which can lead to leaky gut syndrome.

Chronic stress

Stress has a particularly negative impact on intestinal health because it has implications, especially on the brain-gut axis. Under conditions of stress, there are significant changes in mucus secretion, intestinal microflora, and even the immune system. Therefore, people exposed to stress have a higher risk of developing leaky gut syndrome.

Chronic infections and inflammations

Certain conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and celiac disease, are relatively frequently associated with leaky gut syndrome. Gastrointestinal infections, especially untreated and poorly managed ones, can increase a person’s risk of developing leaky gut syndrome.

Environmental toxins, radio- and chemotherapy

Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as heavy metals, pesticides and insecticides, could increase a person’s risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome. Radiotherapy in the abdominal area, as well as chemotherapy, can damage the mucosa and intestinal cells, thus contributing to the hyperpermeability of the intestine.

Leaky gut syndrome – symptoms and clinical manifestations

The symptoms of leaky gut syndrome are very varied. This occurs as a result of the fact that, in essence, leaky gut syndrome can lead to diseases that affect several systems – from the digestive system to the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Leaky gut in babies can be much more difficult to diagnose, but it usually manifests itself through gastrointestinal symptoms. People suffering from leaky gut syndrome have symptoms such as:

  • Digestive disorders: bloating, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, nutritional deficiency;
  • Food allergies and intolerances: adverse reactions to foods that previously did not cause such problems (lactose, gluten, fructose);
  • Skin problems: eczema, acne, psoriasis;
  • Joint and muscle pains;
  • Generalized fatigue;
  • Cognitive problems: mental fog, concentration difficulties, memory disorders;
  • Frequent bacterial infections.

In very serious cases, leaky gut syndrome can allow the passage of various bacteria from the gut into the blood, which increases the risk of systemic infections and even septicemia.

The diagnosis of leaky gut syndrome

Leaky gut syndrome is difficult to diagnose, primarily because there is currently no standardized protocol (both as a result of the complexity of the condition and the lack of consensus regarding this clinical entity). Also, the symptoms that people with leaky gut syndrome present are non-specific and can very easily overlap with symptoms associated with other diseases. However, there are some tests that can suggest the presence of increased intestinal permeability and could raise the suspicion that the person is at risk of developing leaky gut syndrome:

  • Zonulin test: high levels of zonulin in the blood or feces are associated with an increase in intestinal permeability, the person with increased zonulin may have an increased risk of developing leaky gut syndrome;
  • The lactulose-mannitol test: measures the ability of the intestine to allow the passage of the two types of sugars, lactulose and mannitol. An abnormal ratio between the two types of carbohydrates suggests a leaky gut, which increases the risk of leaky gut syndrome;
  • Testing the intestinal microbiome: it can be done by different methods, such as dysbiosis in the stool, and highlights possible bacterial imbalances that are very frequently associated with increased intestinal permeability. People with dysbiosis are more likely to have leaky gut syndrome;
  • Inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and cytokines, indicate the state of inflammation associated with a leaky gut.

Recommendations and treatment for leaky gut syndrome

There is no standardized treatment for leaky gut syndrome. However, certain lifestyle changes are generally recommended, such as changes in eating habits.

Food and lifestyle changes

The diet for leaky gut syndrome should be low in FODMAPs: foods that contain certain types of carbohydrates, such as onions, garlic, grains (wheat, rye, barley), and milk. It is recommended to eat fruits and vegetables rich in natural antioxidants, omega-3 fats, and healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, nuts). Dietary changes could be very beneficial in people with leaky gut syndrome. In the context of the diagnosis, you should give up smoking and drinking alcohol.

Probiotics and prebiotics

Probiotics and prebiotics can help treat dysbiosis, a possible cause that leads to leaky gut syndrome. Probiotics provide beneficial bacteria and prebiotics (eg inulin) feed these bacteria.

Supplementing the diet

Some studies conducted on people with leaky gut syndrome claim that supplementing the diet with L-glutamine, zinc, and quercetin can help reduce intestinal permeability. However, it would be ideal for supplementation, in the context of the diagnosis of leaky gut syndrome, to be made only on the doctor’s recommendations.

Sources:

If you have any questions, please ask below!