Leaky Gut Syndrome

ABSTRACT

Increased intestinal permeability, termed leaky gut syndrome (LGS), plays an important role in health and disease. LGS creates gaps in the intestinal walls that allow harmful bacteria and toxic substances to enter the bloodstream. Several researchers have found significant evidence to support the existence of a leaky gut. Emerging evidence also indicates that leaky gut contributes to a range of health conditions. LGS is closely associated with autoimmune diseases, liver conditions, diabetes, food allergies/hypersensitivity, irritable bowel syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome, and autism. Therefore, LGS should be considered as a factor in the pathophysiology and differential diagnosis of patients presenting with autoimmune diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, liver cirrhosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes, autism, food allergies, and food hypersensitivity. However, since there has not yet been a large-scale study regarding the causality between LGS and these diseases, further research is required to determine if LGS plays a pathogenic role in the progression and development of these diseases or whether these diseases lead to LGS. The 5R program, which includes non-absorbing antibiotic use, probiotic supplementation, exercising regularly, and certain dietary and lifestyle changes, may help restore impaired intestinal permeability.