However, leaky gut is not a recognized medical diagnosis. In fact, some medical professionals deny that it even exists.

Nevertheless, medical professionals do agree that increased intestinal permeability, or intestinal hyperpermeability, exists in certain chronic diseases 1 , 2. Leaky gut, or intestinal hyperpermeability, is a phenomenon that occurs when the tight junctions of the intestinal wall become loose, allowing harmful substances to enter the bloodstream.

Leaky gut syndrome remains a bit of a medical mystery, and medical professionals are still trying to determine exactly what causes it. A protein called zonulin is the only known regulator of intestinal permeability 3 , 4. Two factors that trigger the release of zonulin are bacteria in the intestines and gluten, which is a protein found in wheat and other grains 3 , 4 , 5.

However, some studies have shown that gluten only increases intestinal permeability in people with conditions like celiac disease or irritable bowel syndrome 6 , 7.

Medical professionals are still trying to determine what causes leaky gut syndrome. An unhealthy diet, long-term NSAID use, stress and chronic inflammation are some factors that are believed to contribute to it.

The claim that leaky gut is the root of modern health problems has yet to be proven by science. However, many studies have connected increased intestinal permeability with multiple chronic diseases 3. Several studies have found that intestinal permeability is higher in patients with celiac disease 1 , 6 , 7.

In fact, one study found that ingesting gluten significantly increases intestinal permeability in celiac patients immediately after consumption 6.

There is some evidence that increased intestinal permeability plays a role in the development of type 1 diabetes 1. Type 1 diabetes is caused by an autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas Zonulin is a known moderator of intestinal permeability In an animal study, rats that developed diabetes were found to have abnormal intestinal permeability prior to developing diabetes Studies have found that people with irritable bowel syndrome IBS are likely to have increased intestinal permeability 29 , IBS is a digestive disorder characterized by both diarrhea and constipation.

One study found that increased intestinal permeability is particularly prevalent in those with diarrhea-predominant IBS A few studies have shown that individuals with food allergies often have impaired intestinal barrier function 32 , A leaky gut may allow food proteins to cross the intestinal barrier, stimulating an immune response.

An immune response to a food protein, which is known as an antigen, is the definition of a food allergy Multiple studies have demonstrated that increased intestinal permeability is indeed present in people with certain chronic diseases. Indeed, plenty of studies have shown that increased intestinal permeability is present in several chronic diseases, specifically autoimmune disorders.

Skeptics argue that increased intestinal permeability is a symptom of chronic disease, rather than an underlying cause Interestingly, animal studies on celiac disease, type 1 diabetes and IBS have identified increased intestinal permeability prior to the onset of disease 23 , 34 , A gluten-free diet is the standard treatment for celiac disease This suggests that the abnormal intestinal permeability may be a response to gluten ingestion, rather than the cause of celiac disease.

Overall, there is not yet sufficient evidence to prove that leaky gut is the underlying cause of chronic diseases. Studies have consistently shown that increased intestinal permeability is present in several chronic conditions. However, there is no conclusive evidence that leaky gut is the underlying cause of them.

There is enough evidence to demonstrate that leaky gut syndrome does exist. However, some of the claims being made are not backed by science. Most of these claims have yet to be proven by scientific studies.

A few studies have found that a proportion of autistic children have increased intestinal permeability, but other studies have found that intestinal permeability was normal 37 , 38 , The system usually works quite well, but for some folks, it can spring leaks—just as any well-used plumbing system might.

These tiny leaks can become an ongoing problem and develop into a condition called leaky gut. John Whyte, a board-certified internist based in the Washington, D. The tight connections between the cells that line the intestines, called enterocytes, weaken and become more permeable than they should be.

The cells that line the inside of the gut are dynamic, says Dr. Dawn Beaulieu, director of the functional medicine IBD clinic at Vanderbilt Inflammatory Bowel Disease Clinic in Nashville. They slough off and are replaced every four to seven days.

This leaking of matter from the gut into the bloodstream can cause infections and widespread inflammation, and it may even increase the risk of certain autoimmune disorders. Plus, it can have implications for nutrition. A wide variety of other symptoms, including mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, chronic fatigue, brain fog, arthritis, and allergies may result from increased intestinal permeability, Dunn says.

Such broad symptoms can make pinpointing the problem challenging, says Dr. Anil Singh, a gastroenterologist with Orlando Health in Florida. Sometimes they have nutritional deficiencies.

All of these symptoms overlap with other GI conditions and ailments. Kaunteya Reddy, medical director of the department of gastroenterology at the Redlands Community Hospital in Redlands, Calif. Testing for nutritional deficiencies can also be a good idea, whether those deficiencies have resulted from leaky gut or another condition.

For example, people with first-degree relatives who have IBD, gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, frequent GI infections, or IBS may be at higher risk of increased intestinal permeability. It also offers tips on managing chronic conditions and signs you may be healing from a leaky gut.

There are no treatments approved by the Food and Drug Administration FDA specifically for leaky gut syndrome. Instead, management strategies focus on relieving symptoms and addressing underlying causes. Adopting a gut-friendly diet that helps beneficial gut bacteria grow and thrive is fundamental to healing a leaky gut.

This typically includes reducing or eliminating processed foods, alcohol, high-fat or high-sugars, and foods that trigger allergies e. Eating whole foods may strengthen the intestinal lining and promote gut healing.

These foods include:. Some people with leaky gut syndrome find symptom relief by following a specific diet, such as:. These diets can be restrictive, so talk to a healthcare provider or registered dietitian RD before starting a specific diet to ensure it is safe, healthy, and suitable for you.

Probiotics are live microorganisms, similar to the natural bacteria in your digestive tract, that may help keep your gut microbiome balanced and healthy. Research suggests that probiotics may help heal leaky gut syndrome by:. Some foods contain probiotics, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

Probiotics are also available as dietary supplements. When choosing a probiotic supplement, look for a product that contains multiple strains of bacteria, including those that may be especially effective in healing leaky gut syndrome, such as:.

Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation throughout the body, including the gut. Though some stress is unavoidable, there are specific strategies you can use to help reduce and manage long-term stress to help heal your gut and improve your overall health. Stress management strategies include:.

If you have a condition associated with leaky gut syndrome, your treatment may include prescription medications. The types of medicines prescribed depend on the underlying condition and the severity of symptoms. Medications commonly prescribed to treat digestive conditions include:.

Dietary supplements may play a supportive role in managing leaky gut syndrome by promoting gut health. Supplements that may help treat a leaky gut include:.

Talk to a healthcare provider before adding dietary supplements to your treatment plan, as some supplements may interact with your medications. When this occurs, it triggers inflammation and changes to your gut microbiome, leading to digestive problems and other health issues.

Symptoms of leaky gut syndrome overlap with many other conditions linked to a leaky gut and may include:. Research suggests that some autoimmune conditions may develop due to leaky gut syndrome.

Leaky gut syndrome is associated with many chronic conditions, including:. The relationship between leaky gut syndrome and these conditions is complex and poorly understood.

More research is needed to determine the exact role that leaky gut syndrome plays in these diseases and develop effective treatments. Food intolerance , or food sensitivity, is when the body has difficulty digesting or processing a particular food or food component.

This can lead to digestive problems, skin reactions, and respiratory problems. Research shows intestinal permeability leaky gut may increase the risk of food sensitivities, such as lactose or gluten intolerance.

Managing a chronic condition is a lifelong journey that requires ongoing care. Healing from leaky gut syndrome can take time, consistency, and patience. It may help to remember that healing is not always linear, and you may experience some setbacks.

While some people may experience noticeable changes within weeks, others may require several months of consistent efforts to see significant improvements.

As your gastrointestinal tract heals, you may notice signs of healing, such as:. If you are experiencing signs of healing, it is important to continue following your treatment plan and to talk to a healthcare provider about your progress. See a healthcare provider if you suspect you have leaky gut syndrome or have symptoms of one or more associated conditions.

A primary care physician can be your first point of contact. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform initial assessments, and refer you to specialists if necessary. Healthcare providers with knowledge and expertise in gastrointestinal health include:.

If you have trouble finding a healthcare provider with knowledge about leaky gut syndrome, you can try searching online or asking your primary care physician or health insurance provider for recommendations. Living with chronic GI symptoms can be challenging, but with a proactive and holistic approach to your gut health, you can improve your quality of life and effectively manage your symptoms.

Here are some tips:.