What is Leaky Gut? How to Heal Your Digestive System

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition of the digestive system characterized by increased permeability of the intestinal lining, allowing pieces of undigested food and other toxins to enter the bloodstream where they do not belong.

This process activates the immune system in an effort to eliminate the foreign substances from the body, and thereby causes inflammation. The result is a wide range of physical symptoms such as bloating, multiple food sensitivity, headaches, eczema, and chronic fatigue, among others.

Essentially this means that having a leaky gut can seriously impair your overall health, and you could have it without even knowing! It also doesn’t help that it goes mainly undiagnosed by many mainstream medical professionals because they tend to focus on treating the presented symptoms, not the underlying root cause.

A multi-pronged approach is often necessary in order to heal a leaky gut. A balance of a wholesome natural diet, stress-reduction, supplementation, and a generous dose of patience are all required.

The following recommendations will help you begin to regain digestive balance, as you work with a wellness professional to measure your progress:

Eat alkaline foods
Alkaline foods contain natural anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant compounds, which reduce inflammation, fight free radicals, and aid in the healing process. Not to mention they also play a role in naturally increasing energy and boosting overall health! Such foods include most raw vegetables and fruit, apple cider vinegar, and certain herbs and spices such as ginger.

Consume whole foods that are high in zinc and vitamin D
These nutrients are especially helpful at healing the intestinal lining and can be found in pumpkin seeds, salmon and other fish, garlic, dark chocolate, eggs, shitake and button mushrooms, and of course sunshine! Supplements can also be beneficial if your healthcare professional recommends them.

Reduce stress
It is important to avoid stress as it suppresses the immune system, prevents healing, and could contribute to greater intestinal permeability. Even if you have a busy lifestyle, there are many simple ways to limit the daily stress in life.

Avoid sugar
Sugar and starchy foods contribute to an overgrowth of yeast, which attaches to the intestinal lining to cause inflammation and thwart the healing process. Low glycemic fruits are OK if eaten sparingly and if your condition is not severe. However, you may want to experiment by avoiding fruit completely for 2 weeks, and reintroducing it slowly to see how you react.

Consume probiotics and digestive enzymes
The restoration of proper intestinal flora is essential to regaining digestive health. Probiotics and digestive enzymes help the gut to effectively break down and digest food, thereby reducing the likelihood of entrance into the bloodstream. These are available naturally in raw and fermented foods.

What have you found helpful in treating a delicate digestive system?

5 Ways to Improve Your Digestive Health

Did you know that your brain and digestive system are connected? That is why, for example, when we are nervous, we will sometimes get a stomachache. A new survey reports that 93% of Americans agree that digestive health is important to overall wellbeing, but many do not know how to improve the health of their digestion.

The truth is there are many ways to better our digestion, but lifestyle and food choices can make it difficult. Here are a few simple recommendations to help get you – and your digestion! – on the fast track toward a healthy and happy lifestyle.

Fill Up On Fiber

High-fiber foods are one of the best ways to clean up your digestion. Not only will it keep you regular, but it can also help you lose weight and prevent heart disease, so fill up! Foods high in fiber include beans, whole grains, avocado, broccoli, nuts, apples and pears.  

Stay Hydrated

Water is your best friend when it comes to a healthy digestion, helping you break down all the fiber and fats you eat throughout the day for a smooth (sans bloating, sans constipation) transition. Try to opt for water instead of sugary drinks or caffeine when possible.  

Take Probiotics

Probiotics might sound scary, but you already have 400 types floating around in your digestive tract! Probiotics are bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria in your gut. The best way to get more probiotics in your system is by eating yogurt or taking probiotic supplements.

Eat Slowly and On Time

Rushing through a meal is a surefire way to slow down your digestion. Take the time to eat slowly by taking smaller bites and chewing twice as long. Eating your meals on schedule every day is also a great way to keep your digestion on track. Try to set meal times that are practical for your day-to-day life. 

Meditate & Relax

Your nervous system controls your digestion, which means that every time you are stressed, your digestion suffers. Before it goes too far, try relaxing activities to help decrease your stress levels and increase your digestive health. A few ideas include listening to music, going for a walk, self-massage, taking a bath, or engaging in meaningful conversation.  

How do you take care of your digestive health?