Intestinal Permeability

Our digestive tract is one of the primary places where our bodies interact with the ‘outside’ world. The lining of the intestines is an important barrier, letting nutrients in while also preventing bacteria, viruses, toxins, and other unwelcome substances from entering the body. In the process of digestion, we absorb nutrients from food while eliminating various toxins and other by-products produced in the digestion process.

A special layer of cells lines the intestines and are responsible for absorbing nutrients and protecting the body from harmful substances. This cell lining, if stretched out, would cover more than 300 square feet (roughly 30 square meters), which is about the size of a studio apartment.

Between each cell is a space called a “tight junction.” These tight junctions seal the intestinal lining to form a physical barrier between what enters our digestive tract – food, medications, allergens, etc. – and what passes into our bloodstream. The health of the cells that line the intestines, and the health of these tight junctions, are key to what is absorbed in the digestive tract and what is not.

What is Increased Intestinal Permeability?

Intestinal permeability is defined as how porous the intestinal lining is. This permeability is always present to some extent and is necessary for normal physiological function. When the protective barrier of cells is damaged, and no longer tightly connected, dysfunction can occur. This is often referred to as increased intestinal permeability (also referred to as “leaky gut”). Increased intestinal permeability allows harmful substances, and partially digested food, to enter the bloodstream at higher levels than our bodies can often manage. The damaged intestinal barrier can also reduce the absorption of essential nutrients important for health.

When increased intestinal permeability occurs, the immune system can become activated and lead to inflammation, foods reactions, and the increased likelihood of a variety of diseases.

Increased intestinal permeability may be an underlying cause of many chronic conditions like migraines, depression, and various autoimmune diseases.

What Causes Increased Intestinal Permeability?

There are many possible causes of increased intestinal permeability.

·         Viral and bacterial infections

·         antibiotics and other medications

·         toxins

·         stress

·         inflammation

·         food intolerances

·         imbalances in gut bacteria.

What can be done to maintain a healthy gut?

Trying to limit the factors mentioned above can help decrease intestinal permeability. There are a variety of ways to address both the causes and the complications of increased intestinal permeability. Dietary and other lifestyle changes as well as specific nutritional supplements can help to re-establish your intestinal barrier’s protective function.