Leaky Gut and Dysbiosis

About Leaky Gut

When there aren't enough nutrients available for all the functions of the body, some areas will suffer. 

One scenario might be (and often is) that a lack of vitamin B6 and zinc will not enable the body to make enough stomach acid (hydrochloric acid) which, in conjunction with a digestive enzyme, is needed to break down protein.

Consequently, protein is not digested sufficiently and enters the blood stream too early, often through a gut that is irritated and 'leaky', and causes bloating and all sorts of other symptoms.

Antibiotics, steroid hormones (e.g. the contraceptive pill), sugar and allergens such as wheat, causes the gut lining to become inflamed and 'leaky', or too permeable, and food and chemical portions enter inappropriately.

This may lead to food intolerance and allergy.

Meanwhile, and again largely due to antibiotic use and excessive sugar in the diet, pathogenic (disease causing) bacteria are allowed to grow to unacceptable levels. This is called 'dysbiosis', and the most obvious symptoms include bloating of the abdomen, excessive 'wind' and sometimes pain or discomfort.

The cells of the gut lining are replaced every couple of days, so you can imagine the high levels of nutrients required to sustain this constant renewal.

Both the 'leaky gut' and 'dysbiosis' are usually treatable with nutritional therapy.

Health Supplements and Leaky Gut

Often, a combination of supplements may help in alleviating this condition. You may wish to consult a nutritional therapist for personal advice. Supplements that may be helpful in alleviating symptoms are shown below: