HEALING LEAKY GUT
The gut is a source of energy and support for many functions within the body. However, immune system reactions can cause uncomfortable symptoms and lead to other health conditions that can hinder the way you feel and function on a daily basis. Leaky gut syndrome is a common condition that results from the inner lining of your small intestine becoming damaged, allowing food particles and other Invaders to leak from your digestive tract and into your body. Here at Scottsdale Center for Women’s Health we offer personalized treatment plans for correcting uncomfortable symptoms related to leaky gut, and improving your overall wellness.
What is Leaky Gut?
Leaky gut syndrome is a result of undigested food particles, protein such as gluten, toxic waste, environmental chemicals, and harmful bacteria within the digestive tract moving through the damaged lining and leaking throughout the body. As a result of these foreign substances moving through the bloodstream, an immune response is triggered, which causes uncomfortable inflammatory symptoms and allergic reactions. If left untreated, leaky gut can potentially lead to the development of chronic disease.
What Causes Leaky Gut?
Leaky gut can be caused by an improper diet which leads to an imbalance, or lack. of healthy bacteria within the intestines. Having too little healthy bacteria, along with mobility in the intestinal lining,causes inflammation.
When leaky got occurs, the cells in the small intestine are damaged and unable to produce the essential enzymes needed for proper digestion- the inability for the body to absorb essential nutrients, which contributes to hormone imbalances, a weakened immune system, and even chronic pain.
The function of the intestinal wall is to protect and only allow certain things to enter the bloodstream, such as molecules and nutrients. However, when the wall becomes weakened, larger particles such as food can pass through, allowing undigested food particles to circulate through the body. This activates the immune system response for inflammation- uncomfortable symptoms, and health conditions.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of leaky gut include:
- Digestive issues such as bloating and gas
- Seasonal allergies
- Hormone imbalance
- Autoimmune disease
- Mood imbalance
- Skin conditions and concerns
- Infections
- Excess weight
- Nutrient deficiency
- Headaches and decreased cognitive function
- Cravings of sugar and carbs
- Frequent colds
- Chronic pain
- Aches
- Tiredness
It is also common for many patients to experience chronic fatigue and achiness, while also feeling worn out and full of worry.
Leaky Gut and Weight Gain
Leaky gut has also been found to be linked to weight gain, as well as an increased risk of insulin resistance.This is especially true with an imbalance, or lack, of healthy bacteria within the intestines. This is because, a lack of healthy bacteria, and poor intestinal lining, can cause the carbohydrate metabolism to become overwhelmed as a result insulin resistance. This ultimately leads to weight gain caused by the carbohydrates inability to enter cells and low insulin function. The body then stores the excess sugar as fat within your liver, or cholesterol within the bloodstream.
For some, leaky gut causes difficulty gaining weight. This is often associated with issues such as nausea and heartburn, as patients struggle to identify foods that they can consume without feeling worse. That is why, in any case, it is important to identify leaky gut before it leads to more serious health concerns.
The Effects of Stress
Stress can also contribute to the development of leaky gut. Stress can disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria within the gut, which promotes the development of leaky gut syndrome. Practicing stress management is a great way to improve metabolic function and align your mind with your gut for overall wellness.
Leaky Gut Diet
The most effective way to repair leaky gut is to make necessary diet changes. This includes eating foods that promote gut health and help you reclaim overall health and happiness. When it comes to improving your gut, there’s nothing more important than the food and fuel that you put in your body. The number one cause for leaky gut syndrome is an unhealthy diet.
Contact us
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned, and would like to learn more about leaky gut, reach out to the professionals here at Scottsdale Center for Women’s Health. Overall wellness begins in your gut, contact us today and schedule your consultation towards improved well-being and happiness!