Leaky Gut Syndrome Symptoms

Leaky gut syndrome refers to the condition of increased permeability of the gut or intestinal lining. It often results from the inflammation or damage of the intestinal lining, caused by several factors. The gastrointestinal tract is known to digest foods, and then absorb nutrients including, proteins, vitamins and minerals. In normal condition, the space between the cells of the intestinal lining is closely sealed, so that no undigested food particle can escape through the intestinal wall. When the bowel or intestinal lining gets damaged or inflamed, the spaces between the cells of the intestinal lining broadens, which allows undigested food, toxins and microorganisms to pass through and enter the bloodstream. This can cause allergic reactions and inflammation, as these substances are recognized by the immune system as foreign invaders. Inflammation or damage of the intestinal lining also impairs its ability to synthesize digestive enzymes, which in turn, adversely affects digestion of food.

Leaky Gut Syndrome

Causes
Any factor that can irritate and damage the lining of the intestine can contribute towards the development of leaky gut syndrome. Food intolerance, certain allergens, parasitic infection, candidiasis, bacteria and long-term use of certain drugs including, antibiotics and non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are considered as some of the important factors that can cause irritation and inflammation of the intestinal lining. In addition to these, a poor diet, mostly consisting of refined sugar and not including sufficient fiber rich foods in the diet, excess consumption of alcohol, caffeine, as well as inflammatory bowel disease can also have an association with leaky gut syndrome.

Symptoms
It can manifest in several symptoms and health problems. It is usually associated with a number of health conditions like, autoimmune diseases, ulcerative colitis, arthritis and inflammatory joint diseases, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, pancreatic insufficiency, food allergies and skin conditions like, eczema and psoriasis. Some of the most common symptoms of leaky gut syndrome are:

• Indigestion, gas and flatulence
• Abdominal pain
• Chronic joint and muscle pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Allergies and asthma
• Candidiasis
• Impaired immune function
• Recurrent vaginal infection
• Anxiety
• Skin rash and hives
• Poor memory
• Mood swings and confusion
• Bloating
• Irritability
• Headache

Treatment
Its symptoms are usually treated and managed with the help of dietary restrictions, digestive enzymes and supplementation. The diet that is suggested for the patients usually excludes gluten, and foods that contain a high amount of sugar. People with this condition are more susceptible to candidiasis, and so, the foods on which the candida can thrive, are usually not included in the diet. The foods which are to be avoided by a patient suffering from leaky gut syndrome and candidiasis include, fermented products that contain yeast, fungal products like, mushroom and cheese, honey, fruit and fruit sugar or fructose, and white starch foods like, white rice, refined flour and potatoes.

On the other hand, foods that are rich in fiber, such as whole grains, legumes, vegetables can help to correct this condition. Along with dietary modifications, supplementation like, vitamin B12, nystatin and probiotics are also commonly used to treat it. Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that can help to prevent the overgrowth of disease-causing microorganisms, and maintain the intestinal flora. Apart from these, digestive enzymes are also used to reduce the severity of some of these symptoms. The digestive enzymes can aid the digestion of foods, and alleviate symptoms like indigestion and gas.

It can be a really debilitating condition, that can give rise to many other health problems and weaken the immune system. Though the above mentioned treatment options can help to manage the symptoms, one should also consult their physician to find out a more concrete treatment plan. A physician or health care provider also needs to be consulted, regarding the appropriate use of the supplements.