Leaky Gut – What It Is and Why It Matters
"Leaky gut" may sound like a buzzword, but it describes a real and measurable issue in functional medicine: increased intestinal permeability. When the lining of the gut becomes too porous, undigested food particles, bacteria, and toxins can slip through and trigger the immune system.
This creates low-grade inflammation that can affect everything from your skin to your hormones to your mental clarity. It’s one of the most common underlying factors I see in clients dealing with fatigue, bloating, autoimmunity, and food sensitivities.
What causes leaky gut?
Chronic stress
Poor diet (processed foods, sugar, seed oils)
Gut infections like candida, parasites, or H. pylori
NSAIDs or long-term medication use
Environmental toxins or mold exposure
Alcohol or gut-impacting lifestyle habits
Common symptoms include:
Bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Skin rashes or acne
Joint pain
Food intolerances that seem to grow over time
The good news? The gut lining is regenerative. With the right support, it can heal.
The functional medicine approach to leaky gut includes:
Removing irritants (inflammatory foods, infections, toxins)
Replacing digestive support (like enzymes or bitters)
Repopulating the microbiome with good bacteria
Repairing the gut lining with nutrients like glutamine, zinc, collagen, and anti-inflammatory herbs
Healing the gut isn’t just about feeling less bloated. It’s about restoring immune tolerance, hormone balance, mental clarity, and energy. If you’ve been chasing symptoms without answers, this may be the missing piece.
Need some help with a gut protocol? I got you!
