Gut permeability, or “leaky gut” (as it is sometimes called), occurs when tight junctions in the gut lining become loose. When tight junctions are working properly, they form a tight barrier to keep unwanted things like undigested food, toxins, and bacteria from getting to the bloodstream. Without proper function of this barrier, these unwanted “visitors” can cause problems in the digestive tract and even other areas of the body, including inflammation-related issues. Eating a healthier diet of nutritious, unprocessed foods and avoiding alcohol, processed foods, and foods high in sugar and saturated fat can ease inflammation and calm the gut.

Dr. Kathrine Tavakoli, ND. Dr. Vinnie Dhillon, ND., PerformanceIntegratedHealth.ca