Many people experience digestive discomfort without knowing the root cause. One possible culprit is a condition known as leaky gut, or increased intestinal permeability. While it’s not always discussed in conventional medicine, emerging research and clinical experience suggest it can play a key role in various health issues.
What Is Leaky Gut?
Your intestinal lining acts as a barrier, letting nutrients through while keeping harmful substances out. With leaky gut, this barrier becomes compromised—tiny gaps form between cells, allowing undigested food particles, toxins, and bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can trigger an immune response and widespread inflammation.
People with leaky gut may experience:
Bloating or gas
Food sensitivities
Fatigue
Skin issues like eczema
Brain fog
Joint pain
It’s also been linked to autoimmune conditions, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and mood disorders.
Why It Matters
When the gut barrier breaks down, it not only affects digestion but can impact your entire body. Chronic inflammation caused by leaky gut can stress your immune system, increase your risk for chronic disease, and worsen existing conditions. Because the gut is central to health—affecting everything from nutrient absorption to mood—supporting its integrity is key to long-term wellness.
How to Support Gut Health Naturally
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Focus on whole foods, especially vegetables, proteins, healthy fats, and fermented foods like sauerkraut or kefir. Eliminate processed foods, excess sugar, and common irritants like gluten and dairy (if sensitive).Support the Microbiome
Probiotic supplements and fiber-rich foods nourish healthy gut bacteria. A balanced microbiome helps maintain a strong gut lining.Reduce Stress
Chronic stress disrupts digestion and gut barrier function. Chiropractic care, regular movement, and quality sleep all support a healthy nervous system and gut. Mind-body practices like meditation, journaling, and focusing on gratitude can help calm the stress response and bring more balance to your day.Identify Hidden Triggers
Food sensitivities, toxins, and infections can worsen gut permeability. Working with a holistic provider can help uncover and address these issues.
Take the Next Step
If you're dealing with digestive issues, inflammation, or just don’t feel like yourself, your gut might be telling you something. At Metro Chiropractic, we take a whole-body approach to wellness and can help guide you toward better gut health.
Interested in learning more? Ask us about nutrition support, stress management, and simple lifestyle changes that can help your body heal from the inside out.