Digestive issues such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea and/or heartburn are the body's way of alerting you that your digestive tract is in trouble. These symptoms, if left unresolved, can lead to chronic health problems. Leaky gut ( also known as gut permeability) is a condition where the lining of the digestive tract becomes damaged and bacteria and undigested food particles get through the barrier and create an inflammatory response in the body. These larger molecules were never meant to cross this barrier.
What causes this damage to the digestive tract? Antibiotics, birth control pills, stress, chronic infections, anti-inflammatory medications, highly refined carbohydrates, sugar, processed foods, chemical toxins, wheat, industrial seed oils, and a low fiber diet. Changes in lifestyle, such as incorporating an organic whole food diet, low in sugar and toxins and high fiber from vegetables; reducing stress through meditation; acupuncture, massage, yoga, etc; sleeping 7-9 hours a night; and adding a probiotic supplement and fermented foods, can go a long way in healing the gut.
For more difficult cases, getting guidance from a holistic physician can speed up the healing process. Testing the stool, saliva and/or blood and adding specific herbal formulas or supplements is often necessary.
For more in depth information about gut health attend our free seminar on Thursday, February 12, from 6-7pm at Holistic Women and Families. Please call (386) 872-5757 to RSVP due to limited seating.
