The gut or the gastrointestinal system plays a multifunctional role in digestion of food, absorption etc. If the gut lining becomes inflamed or damaged, it disrupts the functioning of the system. The spaces open up and allow large food antigens to be absorbed into the body. Normally the body sees only tiny food antigens. These new, larger ones appear as foreign to the body's defence system. So the attack results in the production of antibodies against once harmless, innocuous foods. This is known as the leaky gut syndrome.

A person becomes weak and vulnerable with the leaky gut syndrome. Apart from producing certain food allergies it also allows the bloodstream to be invaded by bacteria, fungi and parasites. These microbes and their toxins, if present in large enough amounts, can overwhelm the liver's ability to detoxify. Dr. Allen Tyler from Thorne Research states that both the central and autonomic nervous systems are involved and there is a physiological change in the connective tissue.

Hidden food allergies can cause or aggravate a leaky gut condition. Identifying and eliminating foods to which you are allergic, and/or hypersensitive, goes a long way towards healing leaky gut syndrome…

Anyone, even kids, can have leaky gut syndrome. But it can be avoided with good hygiene practice and better food habits. The main issue is to keep your bowels clear and functioning properly. Items like processed foods, fats, flavor enhancers etc. add to the toxin load on the gut so they are best minimized or eliminated from the diet.

Foods with natural antibiotic qualities include cabbage juice, cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, broccoli), raw garlic, onions, leeks, radishes, fenugreek, gingerroot, hot chili, lemon juice, turmeric, mustard and rosemary. Raw garlic is the most powerful antibiotic for the gut. Onions and leeks are also helpful. Unflavoured soy yogurts contain Lactobacillus Acidophilus which is a good bacteria used to destroy harmful ones. One should avoid refined sugars and carbohydrates, preserved foods, and mouldy or pickled food. Drink lots of water and gain benefits of fibre from daily consumption of raw fruits and vegetables.

Publish date: 11/02/04
http://www.betterhealthusa.com/public/320.cfm

ADDITIONAL WEBSITES:

http://mdheal.org/leakygut.htm

http://www.allergyescape.com/leaky-gut-syndrome.html

http://autoimmunedisease.suite101.com/article.cfm/leaky_gut_syndrome

http://www.liverdoctor.com/04_leakygut_syndrome.asp

http://www.leakygut.co.uk/index.htm

http://altmedicine.about.com/od/healthconditionsdisease/a/TestLeakyGut.htm