Leaky Gut Syndrome is a bit of a medical mystery, with symptoms like bloating, cramps, gas, food sensitivities, aches and pains. It’s still considered a gray area with medical professionals and deserves a lot more research. One possible cause for Leaky Gut Syndrome could be increased intestinal permeability. This causes the tight junctions of the gut that control the passage of food through the lining of the small intestine to malfunction, allowing substances to leak into the blood stream. Because leaky gut hasn’t been fully explored and the causes of leaky gut can vary, there’s no surefire cure. But there are tried and true ways to begin healing your gut and reducing symptoms.
Fiber
Increasing your fiber intake supports your belly’s beneficial bacteria. Soluble fiber is found in vegetables, legumes and fruits.
Curb the Carbs
Consuming excessive refined carbohydrates in your diet can negatively impact your gut’s barrier function. This includes sugar, white flour, white bread, white rice, pastries, soda, cereals and sweets.
Decrease Use of NSAIDS
NSAIDS (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen can increase intestinal permeability, so cut down on these as much as possible and use alternatives like eating anti-inflammatory foods such as berries, fatty fish, broccoli, avocados, green tea, peppers, mushrooms, grapes, turmeric, cacao, and cherries.
Prebiotics and Probiotics
Consuming prebiotic foods and adding a probiotic supplement adds beneficial bacterial to the gut.
Reduce Alcohol
Alcohol increases intestinal permeability and can deplete beneficial gut bacterial, among other negative effects on the body.
Reduce Stress
Chronic stress has been shown to be harmful to beneficial bacteria. Lower your stress levels and take up meditation or yoga and increase your self-care routine as much as possible.