I would love professional opinions on the truth about "Leaky Gut Syndrome".

Answers (2)

Meg Mangano, RD, CSSD, CLT (Registered Dietitian, Board Certified as a Specialist in Sports Dietetics) answered (8/27/2012)

In the recent decade or so, leaky gut syndrome has begun to be recognized in the medical field, although it is still a concept many health professionals are unaware of. Leaky Gut Syndromes are clinical disorders associated with increased intestinal permeability.

A "leaky gut" occurs when the wall of the intestine develops microscopic leaks or tears, and are usually provoked by exposure to substances which damage the integrity of the intestinal mucosa. When these membranes are damaged whole food particles can enter the bloodstream. When this happens, it can cause immune reactions within the body, compromise the immune system, and worsen any pre-existing autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or Chron's disease.

There are a variety of triggers and/or diseases that can increase intestinal permeability. Some of the symptoms associated with this condition are fatigue and malaise, abdominal pain, skin rashes, abdominal distension, diarrhea and so on.

There are a number of different treatments to help repair the altered intestinal permeability, including working with a health professional to measure gut permeability, strategize proper supplementation, specific food and drug avoidance and utilizing the LEAP-MRT food sensitivity testing and nutrition program.