Leaky Gut Connections
It’s amazing that there is just a single epithelial layer that separates our inside from our outside environment. And what’s scary is that when the tight junctions within that intestinal lining become permeable, usually from irritation or inflammation, we can become vulnerable to a wide variety of health concerns.
Because of the gut’s intimate interaction with the, in addition to gastrointestinal issues, a leaky gut causes as well. When a large molecule leaks into the bloodstream, it triggers T cells to make antibodies, causing an immune response cascade. So, it’s important to address the leaking, and there are several natural substances that can help improve the health of the intestinal lining.
Aloe vera gel
The clear, jelly-like substance found in the inner part of the aloe vera plant has unique health-supporting properties. Results of a 2004 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in the journal Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics demonstrated that aloe vera significantly improved gastrointestinal health compared to placebo.
Marshmallow root
Marshmallow (Althea officinalis) is a mucilage plant that has been used since ancient times to help support immunity and the health of mucous membranes in the gut and respiratory system. A 2018 review published in the International Journal of Food Properties states that marshmallow root has been shown to stimulate epithelial cells and is “very soothing for the mucosal membranes and it coats the lining of the esophagus and stomach wall….”
Probiotics
According to a 2017 review published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology, “Growing evidence shows that the gut microbiota is important in supporting the epithelial barrier and therefore plays a key role in the regulation of environmental factors that enter the body.” The authors of a 2013 review published in Current Nutrition and Food Science state that, “One of the important cytoprotective effects of probiotics in the intestinal mucosa is to strengthen the epithelial tight junctions and preservation of mucosal barrier function.”
Prebiotics
Prebiotics which include galactooligosaccharides (GOS), partially hydrolyzed guar gum, and inulin-like fructans—which include inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) have a huge role to play in supporting gut integrity. Partially hydrolyzed guar gum is unique in its capacity to feed butyrate-producing bacteria species. Butyrate is associated with a number of beneficial GI effects including promoting the integrity of the gastrointestinal barrier. Fermentation of prebiotics by the colonic microbiota leads to the production of a range of beneficial metabolites including short chain fatty acids like butyrate. Thus, prebiotics represent a dietary approach to increase levels of microbially produced SCFAs which support intestinal structure and integrity.
Supporting the healthy structure and function of the intestinal lining is an important clinical goal for both gut and immune support protocols. repair are important targets when aiming to reverse leaky gut. Removing food allergens, adopting an anti-inflammatory, high fiber diet and stress control are important foundations. In addition, there are several supplement formulations which can support the accomplishment of this goal.