Leaky Gut is a condition in which the lining of the small intestine becomes damaged, causing undigested food particles, toxic waste products and bacteria to ‘leak’ through the intestines and flood the blood stream.
The foreign substances which leak in the blood stream can cause autoimmune response such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Celiac disease, Depression, Joint pain, Cravings, Chronic fatigue, Headaches, Anxiety, Digestive issues and a very weakened Immune system.
Leaky gut can be caused by medications such as Steroids, Antibiotics, Aspirin, Acetaminophens which irritate the intestinal lining and damage protective mucous layers. This eventually leads to intestinal permeability. Leaky Gut can also be caused due to certain foods as these foods can produce antibodies which can cause a lot of symptoms of Leaky Gut.
Non-dietary Remedies :
1. Breathing : Deep Breathing and Meditation are very helpful to avoid the pain and discomfort of Leaky Gut. This will help you to replace painkillers which can cause further irritation. Do deep breathing before and after each meal as this reduces stress in the body and helps you focus on digestion.
2. Stress and Exercise : The best way to avoid stress is to walk for 20 minutes daily and then sit on a bench and do your breathing exercises. Before bedtime, lie in a Shavasan position and practice yoga – Indra. Exercise within limits. Do not over exercise.
3. Eat slowly and chew well : As Gandhi said, “Chew your drink and drink your food”. Eat mindfully, eat slowly and chew your food very well. Do not eat while watching television or while busy on the phone. Eat in a relaxed manner and focus on each morsel. By chewing your food, you will find the more the Gut is able to process it. You will absorb more of the Nutrients and your Gut will not be bombarded by undigested food particles.
4. Sleep : As I have said before, Sleep is regeneration and repair of your cells. Nothing will heal your body faster than sleep. Sleep at the same time every night as much as possible so as not to disturb your circadian rhythms of the body.
5. Avoid Smoking : Cigarette smoke is a risk factor for several bowel conditions and may increase Inflammation in the digestive tract.
Dietary Remedies :
1. Intermittent Fasting : Prolonged overnight fasting (13 to 16 hours per night) has been associated with reduced risk of elevated HbA1c (Glysated Haemoglobin), and reduced Inflammation. This is very beneficial in healing a Leaky Gut.
2. Fermented Foods : Fermented foods like Kimchi, Sauerkraut, Yoghurt, Kanji, Misogyny, Idli are all good for replenishing your Good Gut bacteria. These foods help with a Leaky Gut by acting as a probiotic.
3. Healthy Fats : Coconut oil, Olives, Olive oil, Avocado oil, Fatty fish and healing Bone Broth all help in calming Inflammation that has occurred as a result of having a Leaky Gut.
4. Avoid Gluten : Focus on Gluten Free grains like Buckwheat, Amaranth, Rice, Sorghum and Gluten free Oats.
5. Processed Foods : Make your body Acidic and need to be avoided at all costs. All these foods cause and aggravate a Leaky Gut. Avoiding these foods may aid the growth of healthy bacteria.
6. Limit Alcohol intake : Excessive alcohol intake may increase intestinal permeability by interacting with certain proteins.
7. Fruits : Fruits promote the growth of Healthy Gut Bacteria so eat at least 3 fruits a day. Try to commit to organic as much as possible.
8. Keep Hydrated : Have the requisite amount of water for your body weight (35ml per kilo body weight). Digestion of carbohydrates begin in the mouth. Drink water 10 minutes before your meal, which stimulates the production of saliva and kickstart the release of your digestive juices to improve your Gut Bacteria.
For more on the Gut please read Naturally Dimpi ‘Gut Health’.
All the best and happy healing from Naturally Dimpi.
Love and Light!!