Is Your Gut Leaking? 7 Signs to Watch For
When your gut develops tiny gaps that allow toxins to pass through into your bloodstream, it can cause a range of symptoms that impact your overall health – informally labeled as leaky gut.
However, recognizing a leaky gut is not that simple because it manifests as a broad range of digestive issues overlapping with many other conditions. It is so ambiguous that, to date, doctors have not been able to formally make a diagnosis of ‘leaky gut’ for anyone. They simply describe it as increased intestinal permeability that LEADS to many formally known gut issues like IBD.
This means if you are able to catch the signs early on, and get the help and care your gut needs, you might be able to prevent a myriad of serious health issues stemming from it.
Let’s Discuss Leaky Gut Syndrome A Bit More
Leaky gut syndrome refers to a condition where your intestinal lining becomes more permeable than it should be. This increased permeability allows substances like undigested food particles, toxins, and harmful microorganisms to pass through the gut barrier and enter the bloodstream.
You might have heard the term intestinal permeability.
This simply refers to the ability of substances to pass through the gut lining. In a healthy gut, this permeability is tightly regulated. When this regulation is disrupted, leaky gut can occur.
Stress can play a significant role in compromising your gut barrier. If you’re constantly under stress, your body produces hormones that can weaken the intestinal lining, making it easier for unwanted substances to leak through.
Remember:
- Intestinal Lining usually acts as a barrier to prevent harmful substances from entering your bloodstream.
- When it is compromised, your immune system might become overactive, leading to inflammation and potentially triggering autoimmune diseases.
Who’s more vulnerable to developing a leaky gut?
People who consume a diet high in processed foods and low-quality ingredients might be at a higher risk of developing a leaky gut. Chronic inflammation is often a result of such dietary habits, damaging the gut and contributing to this syndrome.
Understanding leaky gut is crucial as it relates to various health issues, including depression, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes. Being aware and making dietary changes can help mitigate some of these risks.
7 Common Signs & Symptoms of a Leaky Gut
Recognizing the following signs of increased intestinal permeability can guide you in seeking appropriate care.
1. Your Gut Issues Are Not Going Away
Persistent gut problems can be a major indicator of a leaky gut. If you frequently experience abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea, you might be dealing with increased intestinal permeability.
For instance, people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), particularly IBS with diarrhea, are more likely to have an issue with their gut barrier. These symptoms often don’t resolve with standard treatments, suggesting an underlying problem with the intestinal lining.
2. Your Skin is Not Doing Good
Your skin health is closely linked to your gut health. If you suffer from conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, or frequent hives, it might be connected to your gut.
An imbalance in gut bacteria can lead to inflammation, affecting your skin. This gut-skin connection means that harmful bacteria might be influencing not just your intestinal barrier but also your skin’s condition, leading to persistent skin issues.
3. Your Allergies Are Easily Triggered
Food allergies can be another sign of a leaky gut.
Normally, your gut barrier protects against triggering an immune response. Increased intestinal permeability allows allergens to enter the bloodstream more easily, causing hives, swelling, wheezing, or digestive problems. This response is your body reacting to what it perceives as a threat, indicating that your gut barrier is compromised.
4. You Have Aching Joints
Constant joint pain might also be related to gut health.
The gut-joint axis refers to the connection between gut health and joint health. Increased gut permeability can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, triggering inflammation. This can worsen conditions like arthritis, leading to persistent joint discomfort that doesn’t seem to go away with typical pain relief methods.
5. You Feel Fatigued – Most of the Times
If you feel constantly exhausted and lack energy, your gut might be part of the problem. An imbalance in gut bacteria and increased intestinal permeability can contribute to chronic fatigue syndrome. This condition is marked by extreme tiredness and cognitive difficulties, going beyond typical tiredness.
6. You Are More Anxious and Depressed than Usual
Frequent feelings of anxiety or depression might be linked to your gut.
While many factors can influence mental health, gut bacteria play a role in producing neurotransmitters like serotonin. An imbalance in these bacteria or a leaky gut can disrupt this process, potentially leading to mood disorders. Gut health and mental health are more interconnected than previously thought.
7. You Have an Underlying Health Issue
If you have an autoimmune disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, celiac disease, or type 1 diabetes, a leaky gut might exacerbate your condition.
The gut lining can become more permeable, allowing bacteria and other harmful substances to enter your bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response, leading your body to attack its own healthy cells worsening your autoimmune symptoms.
Conclusion
A healthy intestinal barrier helps protect your immune system. This is essential for preventing unwanted substances from entering your bloodstream. Maintaining this barrier can aid in growth and repair functions within your body.
Remember, the signs can be varied and sometimes confusing. It’s important to speak with your doctor or a registered dietitian for a proper diagnosis if you experience persistent symptoms.
Needless to say, taking proactive steps such as incorporating probiotics (through diet or supplementation) can significantly improve your gut health, and your quality of life.
