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Writer's pictureNatalia. Integrative and Functional Medicine Nutritionist

Leaky Gut in a Nutshell

Updated: Sep 17


Leaky Gut Syndrome. also known as intestinal permeability, occurs when the lining of the small intestine becomes damaged. Discover how this condition develops and why it's important to get it under control.



What is Leaky Gut?


Imagine your gut lining as a fine mesh, designed to allow nutrients through while keeping harmful substances out. Over time, factors like poor diet, chronic stress, toxins, or infections can weaken this mesh, creating "holes." These holes allow harmful substances—like undigested food particles, bacteria, and toxins—to leak into your bloodstream. This is where the trouble begins.


Your immune system recognizes these invaders as threats and launches an attack, causing widespread inflammation. This immune response, repeated over time, triggers the vicious cycle of leaky gut.


How Does This Happen?


  1. Food Plays a Role: Processed foods, dairy, sugar, gluten and alcohol can irritate the gut lining, creating more permeability. For example, cheese and grains are common culprits that can also trigger inflammation in sensitive individuals.

  2. Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress disrupts digestion and increases intestinal permeability by altering the gut’s microbiome—the community of bacteria that protects your gut lining. Stress hormones weaken this barrier, making it easier for harmful substances to slip through.

  3. Toxins and Medications: Environmental toxins, as well as medications like NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can weaken the gut lining, making it easier for invaders to pass through.

  4. Microbial Imbalance: An imbalance in your gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis, further contributes to leaky gut. When harmful bacteria outnumber the beneficial ones, they disrupt the integrity of the gut lining.


Once this condition sets in, your body’s constant immune response to the "invaders" can lead to chronic inflammation. Over time, this cycle can evolve into more serious health concerns, like autoimmune diseases, where your immune system mistakenly attacks your body’s own tissues.



How do you know if you're experiencing leaky gut?


If you're suffering from leaky gut, you may feel like your health is spiraling out of control, even if you're making healthy lifestyle choices. Initially, you might experience mild digestive issues—bloating, gas, or irregular bowel movements. But as leaky gut progresses, symptoms become more systemic: fatigue, brain fog, skin problems, joint pain, and food sensitivities. These symptoms are your body’s cry for help, signaling that it’s struggling to maintain balance.


Common Symptoms of Leaky Gut:


  1. Digestive Issues: Chronic bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation.

  2. Food Sensitivities: New or worsening sensitivities to certain foods.

  3. Chronic Fatigue: Feeling constantly tired or sluggish, even with sufficient rest.

  4. Joint Pain and Muscle Aches: Unexplained pain or stiffness.

  5. Brain Fog: Difficulty concentrating or feeling mentally cloudy.

  6. Skin Problems: Conditions like acne, eczema, or rashes that seem to flare up for no clear reason.

  7. Autoimmune Conditions: A leaky gut can trigger autoimmune responses, leading to conditions such as Hashimoto's, Rheumatoid Arthritis, or Celiac disease.





What Can You Do?


Healing leaky gut involves addressing the root causes just like you can see in the testimonial of my client Tammy. In Functional Nutrition and Integrative Medicine, the focus is on healing the gut lining, reducing inflammation, and balancing gut bacteria through:


  • Eliminating Trigger Foods: Identifying and removing processed foods, gluten, dairy, or other irritants.

  • Rebuilding with Nutrient-Dense Foods: Including gut-healing foods like bone broth, fermented foods, and vegetables rich in fiber.

  • Supporting with Supplements: L-glutamine, probiotics, and digestive enzymes can be vital in rebuilding gut health.

  • Managing Stress: Chronic stress can worsen leaky gut, so incorporating stress-reducing practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing is essential.


If any of these symptoms resonate with you, it’s time to take control of your health.



The Road to Healing.


To break this cycle, healing your gut lining is essential. This involves removing the irritants, replenishing the gut with healing foods, restoring beneficial bacteria, and managing stress. With the right guidance, you can rebuild the integrity of your gut and restore balance to your immune system.


If you’re feeling like your body is constantly battling against you, leaky gut could be the underlying issue. Don’t let leaky gut go untreated—address the root causes, heal your gut, and restore your well-being!


I have put together a comprehensive Gut Healing Program that will get your health back on track! It includes 1 on 1 consultations, DNA Microbiome Testing, an Individualized Eating Plan, and more! Take advantage of the Special Offer for the month of September and sign up with a reduced price.



In healing your gut, you’re not just restoring balance in your body—you’re reclaiming your health, vitality, and well-being. Take the first step today, and give your body the care it deserves.


Not sure of the Gut Health Program is the right fit for you? Schedule a Free Coaching Call to talk about your goals and needs.


Would you like to get a tailored protocol of high-grade professional supplements to heal your gut? My September Supplement Sale is here! Save on healthcare's best supplements and wellness products from now until the 18th only. Check out my Metabolic and Gut Health Breakthrough Protocol and start experiencing the magic of gut health.



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