Leaky Gut Syndrome and Digestion

by Dr. Randy Martin, OMD, LAc, PhD, CCH

The digestive tract is a very complex, multifaceted system that integrates the breakdown of the foods we eat into their molecular constituents so that our bodies can utilize them efficiently. Disturbances in the integrity of the gastrointestinal mucosal lining may arise from a number of different causes. If the integrity of the mucosal lining is intact, then digestion and assimilation will work well.

However, due to a combination of factors, including stress, poor eating habits, environmental pollutants, or a weak digestive tract (usually stemming from childhood), we may not be able to absorb all of the necessary nutrients from the foods we eat. The mucosal lining in the stomach and intestines acts like a barrier to protect the body. But when the mucosal lining is weak, it contributes to the development of chronic diseases because toxic substances from the foods we eat accidentally get absorbed into our body. When this happens, it’s called “leaky gut syndrome.”

Signs and symptoms of leaky gut syndrome include chronic gas, rheumatoid arthritis, auto-immune problems, bloating, burping, diarrhea, or alternating diarrhea with constipation. Secondary signs include chronic fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions, skin problems (such as psoriasis), frequent hives, herpes, or eczema, joint pain, and migraine headaches.

Treatment is aimed at rebuilding the digestive mucosal lining. This is done through acupuncture, dietary counseling, homeopathic remedies and specific dietary supplements.

If you have this problem, it is essential to immediately stop ingesting any gluten-containing products, including wheat, rye, oats, barley, kamut, and malt, as well as dairy products from cows. Some of the supplements I’ve discovered that work best for this type of problem include the following:

1. Permeability Factors: To rebuild the mucosal lining

2. IFlor Probiotics and Prebiotics: The stronger the better

3. Ultraclear Plus: An easy-to-digest protein / detox supplement

4. Pan Plex 2: Digestive Enzymes which will aid in the breakdown of your food; this supplement includes the necessary enzymes for both the upper and lower digestive system, making it much more powerful and effective than other formulas

There are many other supplements I use with specific people, depending on their personal symptoms. Treatment of leaky gut syndrome may take some time, so a patient should be prepared to stay on the diet and supplements for about six months before experimenting with other foods and supplements.

This treatment really works, though. In time you will regain your strength and energy, reduce your joint pains and headaches, and feel much better!