In the last few years, research into “gut health” and its effect on the entire body has increased dramatically. Some have even noted the gut as the body’s second brain and have been linked to mental health issues. What’s known for sure is that gut health is crucial. It’s the system that allows our bodies to absorb essential nutrients. But poor food choices and genetics can cause issues like “leaky gut”. Let’s look a little closer and learn more about leaky gut.

But What Is Leaky Gut?

Humans need the digestive tract, as it keeps food (and its parts) separate from the rest of the body until they are ready to be absorbed and processed. But when the intestinal lining becomes weak and overstretched, bigger particles can be let out into the bloodstream. And in response, the body sees these particles as invaders, which will trigger an immune response. The leaking nature lends itself to the name, “leaky gut”.

What Causes Leaky Gut?

Your Food Choices

The first culprit of leaky gut is the food we consume. As processed and preserve-covered foods become more convenient so too have GI conditions and diseases. Preservatives, dyes, additives, and pesticides can all damage our intestinal lining. Meaning that if your diet is high in processed, packaged, and higher-sugar foods, you are more at risk. This is due to increased inflammation and bacteria overgrowth which can alter blood flow.

Your Medications

More often than not, medications are overlooked in cases of leaky gut. But there are a number of them that can have side effects on the GI tract:

  • Antibiotics
  • Acid reducers
  • Birth control
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Steroids

Dysbiosis

How many times have you heard the phrases “good” and “bad” gut bacteria? It’s being talked about for good reason. For our gut to work optimally, it needs a balance of both good and bad bacteria. You’ve heard it before, health is about balance. When our gut balance is off, intestinal damage can occur. Candida, parasites, and other invaders are the most common offenders.

Stress

The final factor we want to talk about is stress. Chronic stress is a killer on the body. Literally. As we’ve discussed before, stress induces our “fight or flight” response. When triggered, that change also shuts down digestion as well as rising levels of pH and HCL in the stomach. As you may conclude, these abnormally high levels can cause damage to the intestinal lining.

Leaky Gut and Chiropractic Care with Zock Chiropractic

Part of achieving our best physical and emotional health is through chiropractic care and massage therapy. Chiropractic care is focused on allowing our spine and nerves to work to their potential. This results in not only allowing our organs to function but for them to function to their best ability. Dr. Zock would love to discuss your concerns in regard to leaky gut. Her vast knowledge of natural supplementation and body processes makes her a great guide in helping you make the best choices for your body. Make an appointment in Cranberry today to schedule an introductory chiropractic treatment session. We can discuss your pains and needs as part of my initial chiropractic workup for you as a new patient to our practice!

* This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please contact a medical professional for advice.