All About Leaky Gut

Mar 12

Did you know that your intestines are actually responsible for the bulk of nutrient absorption?

Odd, but true! Once food passes through your stomach, the small intestines (or your “gut”) are lined with microvilli who’s jobs are to filter out particles and take in important nutrients to be absorbed, such as vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins and carbohydrates. They are then absorbed into the blood stream, where they are dispersed throughout your body.

Sounds like an easy enough job, but it can be made a little difficult if the gut biome is not working efficiently. If you consume a not-so-healthy diet (refined sugars, anyone?), it can create an overgrowth of BAD bacteria in the gut (the GOOD bacteria actually helps you take in nutrients!). This can make the gut more permeable and allow particles and larger proteins through to your bloodstream. Not recognizing what these proteins are, your body will automatically create an auto-immune response, where chemicals are released from your white blood cells to attack them. This can lead to food allergies and sensitivities, brain fog, weight gain, fatigue - all of the things you do NOT want.

If you think you might be suffering from Leaky Gut, try decreasing the amount of refined sugars and processed foods in your diet, and add more foods high in probiotics, such as: