Hippocrates, the father of medicine, once said, “All disease begins in the gut.”
Thousands of years later, research has proven him correct, and one of the diseases we are most concerned about is Leaky Gut Syndrome. Leaky gut syndrome (LGS) is a condition that happens as a consequence of intestinal hyperpermeability.
In other words, the tight junctions between the cell walls of the gut malfunction and become weak, allowing things like toxins, microbes, and undigested food particles to pass into the bloodstream.
This compromises the liver, the lymphatic system, and the immune system creating an auto-immune response in the body.
Research has shown that leaky gut is now the underlying cause of several “seemingly unrelated” health concerns and chronic diseases. So what’s causing the leaking gut to lead to these chronic diseases? Primarily, it’s the overprescribing of antibiotics. Secondly, it’s the overuse of NSAIDs, such as Advil. Both of these cause inflammation in the intestinal wall, creating the spaces between the cells. What also contributes to LGS is our current lifestyle of excessive alcohol intake, chronic stress, toxic overload, bacterial imbalances, daily/gluten allergies, and poor diet choices.
Curious about what LGS might look like? Here are seven signs you might have it:
- Food sensitivities
- IBS
- Autoimmune Disease including Crohn’s
- Thyroid Problems
- Malabsorption
- Inflammatory Skin Conditions
- Anxiety, Mood Imbalance, and Autism
Other chronic diseases that result from LGS are asthma, allergies, sinusitis, migraines, fibromyalgia, inflammatory joint disorders, PMS, uterine, and breast fibroids. LGS is also often the foundation of chronic fatigue syndrome and pediatric immune deficiencies.
There is one other important factor to consider if you think you have LGS. Not only do toxins get into the bloodstream, due to the weakness between the cell walls, but the absorptive surface area of the intestines gets damaged, so even the beneficial nutrients aren’t absorbed resulting in nutritional deficiencies.
LGS can sound daunting, but there’s hope. We can work towards repairing the gut lining. If you are experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms, acupuncture and diet therapy can help. Feel free to contact me for a consultation.
Sources:
https://www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com/public/Leaky-Gut.cfm
https://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/body-mind/spirit/gastrointestinal/what-is-leaky-gut/
https://draxe.com/7-signs-symptoms-you-have-leaky-gut
Healing your gut and digestive problems takes some time, effort, and consistency. It is well worth the effort.
YOU are well worth your time and effort.
Stay focused.
Your results will be a great reward.
I am available if you need additional help. Just send me an email, text or call.
