The intestine plays an important role in the immune system, is closely connected to the brain, it houses together with the micro biome, a large number of small helpers and can influence our mood. With so many tasks, it is not surprising that an intestinal disorder such as Leaky Gut Syndrome can be jointly responsible for numerous clinical pictures.
Rigorous protection against external influences
The intestinal wall is protected by a layer of mucus against harmful environmental influences such as bacteria, viruses or harmful substances. Beneath this are the mucosal cells, which are closely connected to each other. If the mucous membrane is intact, the body actively absorbs nutrients from food in finely regulated processes (absorption). In contrast, indigestible food components and other undesirable substances remain in the intestines and are excreted.
With Leaky Gut syndrome, the mucous membrane is damaged and becomes more permeable. Gaps occur between the mucous membrane cells and the intestine becomes leaky. Together with other factors (genetic predisposition, environmental influences), this can lead to a variety of complaints, disorders or illnesses.
Perforated intestine leads to a fatal spiral
The causes of a Leaky Gut syndrome are manifold. Initially, there could be an infection caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Other triggers including drugs (e. g. antibiotics, painkillers), or toxins such as nicotine, alcohol, heavy metals and other environmental pollutants. Nutrition also plays a role (sugar-rich food, many saturated fatty acids). Once the intestinal mucosa has become leaky, chronic immune reactions to certain foods can develop and trigger a fatal spiral. These immune reactions weaken and additionally damage the mucous membrane.
Correlation between leaky Gut and up to 120 autoimmune diseases
Leaky Gut syndrome can cause chronic digestive problems such as diarrhoea, constipation, flatulence, cramps or irritable bowel syndrome. The immune system may be misregulated or cause chronic inflammatory intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Damaged mucous membranes increase the amount of environmental pollutants, bacteria and other substances that enter the blood stream. Experts also suspect that up to 120 autoimmune diseases may be associated with a damaged intestinal mucosa.
Treatment is possible
Therapy is always based on individual findings. It is almost always necessary to change one’s diet, administer prebiotics and probiotics as well as supplemental administration of vital nutrients.
