You may have heard a lot of talk about gut health in recent years, and it’s for a good reason. Your gut plays a large role in your overall immune, brain, and mental health! How is that possible?
Our body has more bacteria cells than human cells. These bacteria, along with viruses and fungi present in our bodies is known as microbiome.
Gut microbiome is extremely important for our health, and the good bacteria (probiotics) can even affect our hormones. But before we get to the hormones let’s dive into a condition known as “leaky gut.”
What Is Leaky Gut?
Basically, leaky gut is what happens when the tight junctions in our intestinal lining break down and allow substances to escape from our intestines and travel throughout our body.
These substances range from undigested food particles, bacteria, and toxic waste and can “leak” through into our bloodstream.
If left untreated it can promote inflammation and jump-start the development of chronic diseases.
What Causes It?
More times than not, a poor diet causes leaky gut. However, it can also be due to antibiotics, pain relievers like aspirin and acetaminophen, chronic stress, age, and a few other factors that may irritate the intestinal lining over time.
Gluten, excessive alcohol, and sugar are the main culprits when it comes to diet and leaky gut. While a certain degree of intestinal permeability is natural (to allow fluids and nutrients to pass through), there’s a point when it becomes harmful.
What Are the Common Symptoms?
So now that you know what it is and what may cause it, how can you tell if what you’re dealing with really IS leaky gut?
Here are five common symptoms.
- Digestive issues like gas, bloating, chronic diarrhea and IBS.
- Headaches, brain fog, and memory loss.
- Excessive fatigue.
- Food allergies or intolerances.
- Issues with mood such as ADD, anxiety, ADHD, or depression.
Do these sound familiar? If you’re worried that one or more of these symptoms sound like you, let’s talk.
You can schedule an appointment with one of our team members to discuss treatment plans to remove, replace, and reinoculated the good bacteria into your gut.
The Connection Between Your Gut and Hormones
Your gut plays a big part in the function of your hormones. If your gut is out of balance, then you can guarantee your hormones are as well.
The gut has a hand in metabolizing hormones and can help create melatonin, affect estrogen levels, and even raise stress levels.
If you’re suffering from leaky gut, then your body is taking on a lot of stress and will likely overwork your adrenals.
We Can Help
Unbalanced hormones begin in the gut! If you need to get rid of the bad and replenish the good, learn more about our detoxification program and Metagenics probiotics.
At Evexias Medical Centers, we want to help you find balance so that you can enjoy long-term health.
Call to schedule your appointment, and together we’ll come up with your wellness plan.
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