Leaky gut syndrome, also known as increased intestinal permeability, is often caused by inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa, leading to gaps between intestinal cells. This condition can result in symptoms and signs such as chronic inflammation, fatigue, and gastrointestinal discomfort and may even indirectly cause skin problems and mental disorders. How can leaky gut syndrome be improved? Chen Junru, director of Taiwan Wonderful TCM Clinic, shares four approaches to address this issue.
What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?
In a healthy gut, the epithelial cells on the mucosa are arranged like bricks, tightly connected and interspersed with fat that fills the gaps between them. This arrangement effectively blocks substances in the gut from freely entering the bloodstream, lymphatic system, and other circulatory pathways.Leaky gut syndrome occurs when the intestinal mucosa becomes inflamed or damaged, forming gaps in the intestinal lining. This breach allows bacteria, viruses, incompletely digested large molecules of food, or toxic substances from the gut to enter the bloodstream and lymphatic system, circulating throughout the body. The body often perceives these substances as foreign invaders, triggering an inflammatory response that leads to leaky gut syndrome.
