5 Remedies for Leaky Gut
Digestion is a complex process with many moving parts, and there are many steps along the way for something to go wrong. One of the more increasingly common disorders is a condition known as "leaky gut." Leaky gut, otherwise known as intestinal hyperpermeability, is when perforations develop and allow undigested food and toxins to pass back into the body. Leaky gut can be the starting point for anything from food intolerances to inflammatory bowel disease. If leaky gut is an issue for you, you have options. Here are five to get you started.
Best Leaky Gut Remedies
1. Water
One of easiest things you can do to defend against leaky gut is to stay well hydrated. Chronic dehydration causes constipation. This, in turn, allows bacteria to linger and inflame the intestinal lining, leading to — you guessed it — leaky gut.
2. Probiotics
Your gut is home to lots of bacteria — good and bad. Sometimes an imbalance can occur, and the bad bacteria can take hold. When that happens, regaining balance is of vital importance. A probiotic supplement can help replenish the good guys, and calm an unstable gut environment.[1]
3. Digestive Enzymes
Taking digestive enzymes before eating a meal is an excellent way to help ensure your food is properly digested, lessening the chance that partially digested food will cause more harm to your body. Digestive enzymes can also help encourage a healthy bowel environment.[2]
4. L-Glutamine
L-glutamine is an essential amino acid with anti-inflammatory properties that works by coating cell walls and protecting against irritants. It could even aid in the repair and growth of the intestinal lining and reduce some of the complications associated with leaky gut.[3]
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet is another way to combat inflammation. Omega-3s could work to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease.[4] Some of the best plant-based sources include flaxseed oil, chia seeds, walnuts, and kidney beans.
Leaky Gut | Natural Remedies to Heal the Gut
Length: 6 minutes
References (4)
- West, N. P. et al. Probiotic supplementation for respiratory and gastrointestinal illness symptoms in healthy physically active individuals. Clinical Nutrition. 33 (4).
- Olendzk, B. C. et al. An anti-inflammatory diet as treatment for inflammatory bowel disease: a case series report. Nutrition Journal. 13.
- Rapin, J. R. & Wiernsperger, N. Possible Links between Intestinal Permeability and Food Processing: A Potential Therapeutic Niche for Glutamine. Clinics (Sao Paulo). 65 (6).
- Simopoulos, A. P. Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Inflammation and Autoimmune Diseases. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 21 (6).
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
