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The Doctor’s Guide To Leaky Gut Syndrome
Table of Contents Introduction 1 Chapter One 2 What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome? 2 Who is susceptible to Leaky Gut Syndrome? 3 Leaky Gut Syndrome And Other Health Conditions 3 The Leaky Gut Syndrome Theory 4 The Role of the Microbiome 4 Chapter Two 6 Symptoms Of Leaky Gut Syndrome 6 Gut Concentrated Symptoms 6 Food Sensitivity vs Food Allergy vs Food Intolerance 9 How do you know if you have food sensitivity? 10 Chapter Three 12 Causes And Risk Factors Of Leaky Gut 12 Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) 13 Environmental Contamination 14 Depression 15 Stress And Insufficient Sleep 15 Obesity 16 Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) 16 Maternal Factors 16 Childhood Trauma 17 Chapter Four 18 Dietary Recommendations for Leaky Gut Syndrome 18 Important Recommendations for Leaky Gut Syndrome 19 Food Categories To Avoid 20 Food Categories That Can Help Heal Your Leaky Gut 21 Chapter Five 23 Helping To Repair LGS 23 Herb & Nutritional Supplement Recommendation 23 Complete Probiotic 24 CN Digestion 31 CN-GRMax 31 Clean 32 Conclusion 32 Disclaimer 33
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1
Introduction
U
nderstanding and taking good care of your body is essential to your survival in
today's world. In this book, we shall be discussing Leaky Gut Syndrome (LGS)
and how you can help prevent the disease. Many natural health experts and
enthusiasts are paying great attention to LGS and its potential causes, which has gained
quite a bit of attention. Some believe that LGS is not a real condition. Let no one fool you
on this, leaky gut is a disease that has been affecting lots of people, and we all need to
take it very seriously if we hope to manage or curtail its existence. Gut health is critical
and for an excellent reason. The human gut is home to millions of bacteria that help
maintain our immune system, digest your food, and can even have a good effect on your
body weight. In recent years, there has been an increase in diets based around cleaning
the gut. There are many doctors and healthcare professionals who do not see LGS as a
diagnosable condition. However, there is current scientific research and evidence that
suggests leaky gut may contribute to different medical conditions. In this book, we try to
discuss all there is about LGS, its causes and risks, dietary recommendations, etc. We
have also provided tips that will help you improve your gut health. The wisdom of
Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, is still heralded. Today, science has finally
caught up to what Hippocrates said about 2500 years ago. The latest research has
affirmed that at least 90 percent of all modern health problems and diseases find their
origin in the gut. Chronic diseases like arthritis, diabetes, and depression are increasing
in epidemic proportions and can be traced back to the irritated and inflamed human gut.
Minor ailments like constipation, lack of libido, aches, and pains may be linked to human
gut dysfunction. Also, a damaged gut can increase the level of toxins in the body, thereby
causing premature aging. When your digestive tract is not functioning optimally, your
whole body becomes at risk. The reason is that the gastrointestinal, immune, nervous,
and endocrine systems all communicate and interact with each other. A compromised
gut also affects and compromises the other three systems. The gastrointestinal tract is
the engine room of the human body. It extracts nutrients from the food we eat and
delivers them to every cell that the body requires for survival complex system, and every
part plays a crucial function. Lots of things happen along the 30-foot digestive tract, and
many things can go wrong. Things like bacterial imbalance, mechanical blockage, and
other problems can wreak havoc on the smooth functioning of your gastrointestinal tract
leading to abdominal distress and bloating, or worse, certain chronic diseases.
book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
2
Chapter One
What Is Leaky Gut Syndrome?
In recent years, the term leaky gut has garnered lots of attention from healthcare profes-
sionals. Also called "increased intestinal permeability," leaky gut is a medical condition in
which gaps in your intestinal wall start to give way or loosen up. This condition makes it
easier for larger substances like bacteria, toxins, and other undigested materials to pass
through the intestinal spaces into the bloodstream. Some studies have associated
increased intestinal permeability or LGS with lots of chronic and autoimmune diseases
like type 1diabetes and celiac disease. Within our stomach, we have intestinal linings
covering more than 4000 square feet of surface area. When the gut is in good working
condition, it forms a closed barrier that controls what gets absorbed into the blood-
stream. Unlike a healthy gut lining, an unhealthy gut or leaky gut has gaps or spaces that
allow the passage of digested food, toxins, and other substances to pass into the blood-
stream or the tissues beneath. Such occurrences might lead to inflammation and changes
in the gut flora (friendly bacteria) that could lead to problems within the digestive tract in
particular and the entire body system in general. Research today shows a significant rela-
tionship between medications in intestinal bacteria, and inflammation plays a significant
role in the development of many chronic diseases. The gastrointestinal tract is a tube
made up of different connected organs running from the mouth to the anus. The organs
of the digestive tract include the following:
● The stomach
● The gullet or esophagus
● Both the small and large intestines.
Within the stomach, digestive enzymes break down nutrients from food into smaller
molecules that can be easily absorbed and utilized by the body for growth, energy, and
body repair functions. Also, the intestines shield the bloodstream from harmful toxins
and bacteria. LGS allows the movement of toxic materials from the gut into the blood-
stream leading to different autoimmune diseases.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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Who Is Susceptible To Leaky Gut Syndrome?
We all have a certain degree of leaky gut as the intestinal wall is not completely impene-
trable, and it is not supposed to be. There are those of us who may have a genetic predis-
position and are more likely to be sensitive to changes in the digestive system. Aside
from our genetic makeup, modern-day life activities may also play a significant role in
the development of gut inflammation. Specific diets such as those low in fiber and
high in sugar and saturated fats are more likely to lead to LGS. High consumption of
alcohol has the potential to disrupt the microbial composition of your gut. We are
aware of the fact that the increase in intestinal permeability plays a role in certain
gastrointestinal condi-tions such as Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac
disease, etc. The question we need to ask is whether LGS can cause problems in
other paths of the body. Some research has associated LGS with certain autoimmune
diseases like multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, lupus, chronic fatigue syndrome,
fibromyalgia, arthritis, allergies, asthma, acne, and even mental illness. However,
currently, there are no current clinical studies in humans showing the relationship.
The Link Between Leaky Gut Syndrome
And Other Health Conditions
LGS may contribute to several health conditions such as food allergies, polycystic ovary
syndrome, chronic liver disease, irritable bowel syndrome, etc. There is still no clear
evidence or proof as to whether LGS is a symptom or a cause of these conditions. How-
ever, an increase in intestinal permeability may contribute to the development of inflam-
matory bowel syndrome (IBS). Some scientists have been studying and investigating the
gut-brain axis. It is the relationship between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain.
There have been some scientific reviews that suggest there is a relationship between
leaky gut and mental conditions like anxiety and depression. As it stands, scientists need
to conduct more research to support and prove this claim.
The statements and products in this book have not been evaluated by the US Food & Drug Administration. The information in this
book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
4
The Leaky Gut Syndrome Theory
The proponents of the LGS theory are mostly practitioners of complementary and alter-
native medicine. They believe that the bowel lining can become irritated and leaky as a
result of different factors. Such causative factors include the overgrowth of yeast or bac-
teria in the gut, poor diet, or even the overuse of antibiotics. They believe that undigest-
ed food particles, bacterial toxins, and germs can pass through the leaky gut wall into the
bloodstream, thereby triggering the immune system and causing persistent inflammation
across the human body. This inflammation can lead to a broader range of health problems
such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, scleroderma, multiple sclerosis, and so on. Howev
er, there is currently little evidence to suggest that the mentioned conditions are, in
fact, as a result of having a leaky gut.
The Role of the Microbiome
The Human Microbiome Project affirmed that around ten trillion bacteria live in the
human body while there are one trillion human cells. In all fairness and every practical
sense, our microbiome makes up who you are. You are more bacteria than human, and
your health is greatly dependent on your gut. Your gut bacterial community is the most
vital part of your gastrointestinal tract health. It is also known as your microbiome. The
human gut contains hundreds of interacting species that co-evolved in the gut and other
parts of the human body. Today, bacteria have been demonized by many people. Howev-
er, we must all remember that bacteria are vital and essential to our survival. These
microorganisms, commonly known as good bacteria, are integral for boosting and fortify-
ing our immune system, hence protecting us from pathogens and maintaining healthy
digestion. These microbes also help to keep our hormone levels balanced while also
ensuring that our brains are healthy and alert at all times.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
5
Moreover, these good bacteria help to protect the gut barrier by working to ensure the
cell wall junctions stay tight and healthy. By so doing, they help to prevent a leaky gut.
These bacteria are permanent occupants of the human body and reside predominantly in
the colon. Our first contact with bacteria is at birth or in utero, and our bacteria commu-
nity changes during our lifetime. The patterns of microbiota differ from one person to
another, mainly as a result of different environmental conditions like antigen exposure,
medication history, and infections. Hygiene, age, and genetics also affect your microbi-
ome community. You must note that the interaction between you and your gut microbi-
ome determines whether you stay fit or become unhealthy. Any disturbance in the
healthy gut microbiota leads to bacteria translocation (the overgrowth of bacteria in
non-ideal parts of the gastrointestinal tract), intestinal barrier dysfunction (leaky gut),
and intestinal dysbiosis (the imbalance in the ratio of good vs. harmful bacteria).
The statements and products in this book have not been evaluated by the US Food & Drug Administration. The information in this
book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
6
Chapter Two
Symptoms Of Leaky Gut Syndrome
hen you have a leaky gut, you can experience many symptoms that are not just
limited to the gastrointestinal tract. The concept of a leaky gut may be confus-
ing, so here is an example. To get a better understanding, think of it as a bucket
with a large number of small holes in it that is continually letting a small amount of water
leak out of it, and the water is leaking into an area that should not get wet. The mecha-
nism of potential adverse health consequences associated with LGS are similar to the
well-known and established negative health consequences of various dental problems.
These now accepted issues were first postulated by Dr. Weston in the 1930s when he
began to notice a pattern between deteriorating dental health and other health issues
that most people would never associate being caused by or directly related to dental
problems. A perfect example of this is that individuals with gum disease are 2-3 times
more likely to suffer a heart attack, stroke, or other serious cardiovascular events.
Gut Concentrated Symptoms
1 Constipation
One of the most common symptoms of LGS is constipation. It simply means having hard,
dry bowel movements, or going less than three times in a week. Constipation affects
people of ages, so it is not limited to a particular age group. Almost everyone goes
through it at some point in their lives. Although it is not typically life-threatening, you will
undoubtedly feel much better when you have your system back on track.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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You should note that the length of time between bowel movements differs widely from
person to person, and current literature suggests that normal bowel movement frequen-
cy ranges from 3 times per day to 3 times per week. Going any longer than 3 or more days
without one is usually too long. After day 3, the fecal material becomes harder and
becomes more difficult to pass.
2 Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
When you are experiencing irritable bowel syndrome, you are likely suffering from LGS.
Currently, in the United States alone, irritable bowel syndrome affects more than 25
million people. Irritable bowel syndrome is a mixture of both stomach discomfort and
abnormal bowel habits. It may involve diarrhea or constipation, or even having a different
kind of stool like thin, hard, or soft and liquid. The condition is not life-threatening and
does not predispose you to other colon conditions like ulcerative colitis, colon cancer, or
even Crohn's disease. However, the appearance of irritable bowel syndrome can be a
sign that there is a problem with your gut or intestinal tract. Those with irritable bowel
syndrome may miss work or school more often than usual and may feel less able to
partake in daily activities. Also, stress can make symptoms worse for most people. There
are 4 main types of irritable bowel syndrome and include irritable bowel syndrome with
constipation (IBS-C) and irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D). Some have an
alternative pattern of constipation and diarrhea, and it is called mixed IBS (IBS-M). Some
people do not fit into these categories easily; hence they are called unsubtyped IBS or
IBS-U. You need to know that not all irritable bowel syndromes are a result of LGS. It can
occur as a result of the hypersensitivity of the colon or overreacting to mild sensations
and stimulation. In this type of IBS, instead of the slow rhythmic muscle movements, the
bowel muscles spasm, thereby leading to diarrhea or constipation. A current theory is
that IBS occurs because of the inability of muscles in the bowel to squeeze normally. In
turn, this affects the movement of the stool. However, there are currently no available
studies that support this concept. There is also another theory that implicates chemicals
made by the body like serotonin and gastrin, which can control nerve signals between the
brain and the digestive tract. Because IBS is experienced more often in women than men,
some researchers believe that hormones may play a role. However, yet once again, there
are no available studies to support this theory.
The statements and products in this book have not been evaluated by the US Food & Drug Administration. The information in this
book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
8
3 Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is the excessive growth of bacteria in the
small intestine. It is often implicated as the cause of chronic diarrhea and malabsorption.
SIBO continues to be poorly understood. It was initially thought to occur in only small
numbers of patients. Currently, this disorder is more prevalent than previously thought.
Those that suffer from small intestine bacterial overgrowth can be asymptomatic or show
symptoms like chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and malabsorption. When you start to expe-
rience any of the symptoms above, you should seek the services of a health professional.
SIBO does not only affect those with LGS.
4 Food Sensitivities
Another symptom of LGS is food sensitivities. We typically think of dramatic reactions
when our bodies don't agree with the food we eat. Food sensitivities are different. Unlike
food allergies, these reactions can be delayed and are rarely life-threatening. Many
people don't know that there's an increase in the prevalence of food sensitivities, which
can affect our health and moods. Also, food sensitivities are mostly undiagnosed and
seem to be on the rise. While they are less scary than a full-blown food allergy, these
mysterious and highly individualistic conditions can still make us sick
Luckily, with growing awareness and testing capabilities, it's easier than ever to get to the
bottom of what is ailing you and do something about it. There is a big difference between
food insensitivity, food allergy, and food intolerance.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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Food Sensitivity vs. Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance
1 Food Sensitivity
Food sensitivity is a diffuse, but poorly understood reaction to food that may be associat-
ed with increased levels of specific IgG class antibodies that are reactive to that food.
Unlike a food allergy, the symptoms are often delayed for several days after ingesting the
original trigger food. An example of this is a gluten sensitivity or peanut sensitivity.
People who have food sensitivities can go a lifetime without ever knowing they have one
due to delayed reaction times and vague symptoms that mirror common ailments.
2 Food Allergy
Food allergy is an immune response to a specific food, triggering a histamine reaction
with potentially severe symptoms like anaphylaxis or hives, with near-immediate reaction
time. An example of this is someone with a peanut allergy, requiring an EpiPen simply
because they inhaled a tiny amount of peanut dust from a candy wrapper nearby. People
who suffer from food allergies usually know about their allergies based on extreme reac
tions and immediate response times.
3 Food Intolerance
Food intolerance happens when you lack an enzyme needed to break down a particular
food, triggering a digestive response. An example of this would be those with lactose
intolerance, meaning they lack a sufficient quantity of the enzyme lactase to break down
the sugars in the milk, resulting in gastrointestinal trouble. Intolerances commonly run in
families.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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The critical difference is how your body reacts once a trigger food is encountered. For
both allergies and sensitivities, your body may produce certain classes of antibodies to
triggering substances. A food allergy prompts the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE),
while food sensitivity may result from immunoglobulin G (IgG) reactions. Testing for
these two antibodies is the most definitive way to distinguish between an allergy and
sensitivity, and an immunoglobulin G (IgG) test offers more insights on what foods are
making you sick. Here are a few tell-tale signs to look for if you suspect your body is
reacting poorly to specific foods.
How do you know if you have a food sensitivity?
If you notice specific ailments or aches regularly like the ones listed above, you might
have a food sensitivity. The tricky part is figuring out which food is to blame. Since symp-
toms can wait to show up until a few days after consumption, it makes diagnosis especial-
ly challenging and time-consuming. That's why for many, food sensitivities last for
decades and are mostly undiagnosed.
Traditionally, you would keep a food journal and embark on an elimination diet, removing
possible culprits one at a time for periods of two to eight weeks (the longer, the better)
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers are another symptom that accompanies LGS. Peptic ulcer disease
represents a serious medical problem. Approximately 500,000 new cases are reported
each year, with 5 million people affected in the United States alone. As a rule of thumb,
ulcers predominantly affect the older population, with the peak incidence occurring
between 55 and 65 years of age. In men, duodenal ulcers were more common than
gastric ulcers; in women, the converse is true. Thirty-five percent of patients diagnosed
with gastric ulcers will suffer serious complications. Although mortality rates from peptic
ulcer disease are low, the high prevalence and the resulting pain, suffering, and expense
are very costly.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
11
Peptic ulcer disease is one of several disorders of the upper gastrointestinal tract that is
caused, at least partially, by gastric acid. Patients with peptic ulcer disease may present
with a range of symptoms, from mild abdominal discomfort to catastrophic perforation
and bleeding. Specific symptoms accompany gastric or peptic ulcers. Most patients with
peptic ulcer disease present with abdominal discomfort, pain, or nausea. The pain is
located just above the stomach and usually does not travel anywhere else. Pain radiating
to the back may suggest that an ulcer has penetrated posteriorly, or the pain may be pan-
creatic in origin. Pain radiating to the right upper quadrant may indicate disease of the
gallbladder or bile ducts. Patients may describe the pain of peptic ulcer as burning or
gnawing, or as hunger pains slowly building up for 1–2 hours, then gradually decreasing.
The use of antacids may provide temporary relief. Classically, gastric ulcer pain is aggra-
vated by meals, whereas the pain of duodenal ulcers is relieved by meals. Hence, patients
with gastric ulcers tend to avoid food and present with weight loss, while those with duo-
denal ulcers do not lose weight. It is important to remember that although these patterns
are typical, they do not indicate a particular condition. The nature of the presenting
symptoms alone does not permit a clear differentiation between benign ulcers and
gastric neoplasm.
The statements and products in this book have not been evaluated by the US Food & Drug Administration. The information in this
book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
12
Chapter Three
Causes And Risk Factors Of Leaky Gut
here are many reasons why people develop a leaky gut. Based on what we have
already covered, it is quite evident that many things are implicated in the cause of
a leaky gut, and it is difficult to pinpoint a single cause of intestinal hyperpermeabil-
ity. However, there are a few little-known culprits you should be aware of. Listed below
are eight (8) factors that can significantly affect the health of your GI tract and play a role
in the development of a leaky gut.
1 Food
The food you consume not only provides your own body with energy and nutrients that
it needs to survive, but your gut microbiota also feeds on what you eat. Some foods help
grow and maintain healthy levels of the beneficial bacterial community. Other foods not
only cause inflammation in your gut, but they also initiate the overgrowth of pathogenic
bacteria.
Research shows that your diet has a significant and rapid impact on the abundance and
variety of your gut microbiota. Certain types of foods can cause changes in the bacterial
community in just 24 hours. When you consume food that alters the balance of bacteria
living in your GI tract, it can also impair hormonal balance and immune function. And, as
mentioned earlier, an unhealthy microbiome can lead to a leaky gut. Secondly, a leaky gut
can be caused by inflammation due to food sensitivities. Food sensitivity is not the same
as anaphylaxis, where a trigger food or substance may result in immediately swollen lips
or closed airways. Reactions from food sensitivities are usually much milder and poten-
tially delayed (up to 72 hours). Food sensitivities are important because they can create
a chronic state of inflammation. Symptoms can include but are not limited to, asthma,
arthritis or joint pain, migraines, ear infections, or eczema. If you feel like you may have a
food sensitivity, but you are not sure what it is, you may find it helpful to do an IgG test
with your practitioner or try an elimination diet.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
There are two major concerns associated with genetically modified (GM) food. The first
concern surrounds the effects of GM food on the body. Because they are under-regulat-
ed by the government, and many products are new to the market, the long-term effects
of GMOs are unknown. What is known, however, is that since GMOs were introduced in
1996, the rates of numerous health problems have increased. In fact, since the introduc-
tion of GMOs, the rates of people with food allergies, autism, reproductive disorders, and
digestive issues have all increased. However, it is unknown if these issues occurred
because of the DNA changes in these bioengineered foods, or because of the second
concern; glyphosate. Genetically modified foods are engineered to withstand the intense
chemical sprays of the herbicide, Round-Up, which could kill any other non-modified
plant. The active ingredient in this particular compound is called glyphosate. In 2015, the
World Health Organization (WHO) classified glyphosate as a probable carcinogen. Gly-
phosate is also associated with breast cancer, birth defects, kidney disease, and is known
to draw minerals and nutrients out of the body.
Additionally, research suggests that glyphosate may also be damaging to the microbiome,
and thus, impairing gut health. You can lower your exposure to glyphosate by choosing to
eat organic and gluten-free. Gluten, found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, can
cause leaky gut by stimulating the release of zonulin. Zonulin is a molecule released by
intestinal cells and causes the tight junctions of the gut wall to open. This is an essential
mechanism in the body to ensure that nutrients pass from the gut into the bloodstream.
However, when there is too much zonulin, the 'gates' of the gut are left wide open, allow-
ing undesired particles to pass through. The presence of gluten in the body can stimulate
such an overproduction of zonulin, thus contributing to leaky gut. It is important to note
that you do not have to be "celiac" to be affected by gluten in this way. Milk & Dairy Prod-
ucts Research shows that dairy intake reduces the abundance and the diversity of the gut
microbiota, especially in people who drink significant amounts of pasteurized milk prod-
ucts, which are relatively sterile in microbiota composition. Other research indicates that
the digestion of protein in processed milk leads to the production of a particular molecule
that can cause an immune response, with symptoms such as skin reactions, abundant
mucus production, and inflammation. Moreover, this molecule slows down the passage
of food through the digestive system.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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Low Intake of Dietary Fiber
Data shows that not consuming enough dietary fiber can negatively impact healthy gut
flora and can induce chronic diseases such as obesity. We must remember that fiber is
"healthy food for our gut." Not getting enough fiber can change the abundance and diver-
sity of healthy gut bacteria. It also alters the levels of compounds created during diges-
tion (such as butyrate) that keep the junctions of the gut tight and prevent intestinal
hyperpermeability.
Excessive Alcohol
Alcohol in the colon and the small intestine reduces the abundance of helpful bacteria
that calm inflammatory activity. This eventually causes intestinal damage or even leaky
gut by dissolving mucus on the intestinal lining, which is responsible for the proper func
tion of the gut barrier.
2 Environmental Contamination
Many environmental contaminants, including pesticides, heavy metal, and antibiotics,
can contaminate water and food. This leads to adverse health effects in the body, such as
intestinal disorders, oxidative stress, and inflammation. However, a healthy gut microbio-
ta helps reduce the toxicity of numerous contaminants by decreasing their absorption
and enhancing the function of the gut barrier. Furthermore, it can help calm inflamma-
tion, as well as reduce the number of pathogenic bacteria by competing against them and
producing compounds to fight them off.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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Antibiotics
People are overly exposed to antibiotics not only through their medical use but also their
utilization in crops and farm animals. We need to remember that antibiotics not only kill
harmful bacteria but good bacteria too. Exposure to antibiotics, therefore, can rapidly
alter the balance of the gut microbiome, causing immediate effects on health and the
opportunistic growth of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria.
3 Depression
You may not know this, but your gut and brain are connected. Through the gut-brain axis,
changes in the microbiome and digestive system can affect the function and the struc-
ture of the brain, causing depression and anxiety. Similarly, changes in brain function
affect the gut bacteria and the gastrointestinal system. Research shows that depression
promotes the onset of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and the changes in the gut microbi
ota, causing depression, and can worsen the symptoms of IBS.
4 Stress And Insufficient Sleep
Psychological and emotional stress can affect gut microbiota composition, creating an
imbalance in the normal, healthy gut bacteria called dysbiosis. Dysbiosis, together with
inflammation, can cause metabolic disease, affective disorders, circadian misalignment,
and sleep loss. Insomnia alters the function of the immune system, biological rhythms,
and the metabolism of nutrients in the body. At the same time, this insomnia negatively
impacts digestion and the bacterial community in the gut. It is a vicious cycle that starts
and ends in the gut. Further research showed that chronic stress initiates intestinal
hyperpermeability, increases the levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), and reduces the
abundance of good bacteria that help calm inflammation. This leads to the dysfunction
of the microbiota-gut-brain axis. It has also been determined that chronic stress due to
gut dysfunction can stimulate the development of Parkinson's disease. In people who
already have Parkinson's, chronic stress can initiate microbial dysbiosis and a leaky gut,
which can accelerate the speed at which Parkinson's disease worsens.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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5 Obesity
Research shows that being overweight reduces the number of short-chain fatty acids
(SCFA) in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. These SCFAs keep the digestive tract "gaps"
tight. This reduction and subsequent loosening of the gaps increase the permeability of
the gut and stimulate the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) or Candida
6 Overgrowth
Your gut bacteria primarily live in the large intestine. Sometimes, however, due to factors
like aging, poor motility, diabetes, low stomach acid, or injury, the gut bacteria can over-
grow in the small intestine. This is known as small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
This overgrowth can stimulate the release of the molecule zonulin, which, as previously
mentioned, opens up the junctions of the gut. If there is too much zonulin in your body,
the 'gates' or tight junctions of your gut wall will continue to be open, creating a leaky
gut. Additionally, leaky gut can be caused by a fungal overgrowth, referred to as candida.
Candida albicans is a yeast that is naturally found in the mouth, the gut, and the birth
canal. A diet high in sugar, stress, alcohol, or the use of oral contraceptives can all contrib-
ute to this fungal overgrowth. This can then cause inflammation to the gut wall, creating
a leaky gut. A common sign of candida overgrowth is a white film over the tongue. Specif-
ic nutritional considerations can be deployed to assist in rebalancing the bacterial
balance/load of the digestive tract.
7 Maternal Factors
Your body's first encounter with the microbiome is during your development in the womb
and at birth. The composition of the gut microbiota then adapts and evolves as you grow
and become exposed to various environmental factors. Recent studies indicate that the
maternal factors that you encounter in utero and after birth can affect your immune
system and the gut microbiome. For example, children born via the vaginal canal have a
much more robust and diverse microbiome than their counterparts born via c-section.
Additionally, as children gain their microbial foundation from their mothers, mothers
must do their best to nurture their microbiome.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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7 Childhood Trauma
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder linked to the interactions of the gut and the
brain, and it is also related to early adverse life events. Research indicates that people
who experience severe traumatic incidents have a higher risk of developing IBS and
gastrointestinal symptoms associated with it.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
18
Chapter Four
Dietary Recommendations for Leaky
Gut Syndrome
he quality of your gut health depends upon many pieces that not only include the
health of your bodily systems but also include a healthy diet. Treatment of LGS
may center on developing general healthy dietary guidelines, in addition to making
some essential adjustments in your relationship with food. Consider the diagram below
for a better and easier understanding.
Essential Recommendations for Leaky Gut Syndrome
● Eat foods that have natural antimicrobial properties such as onions, leeks, radishes,
fenugreek, ginger root, hot chili, lemon juice, turmeric, mustard, and rosemary.
● Eat cruciferous vegetables that have detoxifying properties such as cabbage, cauli
flower, brussels sprouts, and broccoli.
● Add raw, crushed garlic to your recipes. The act of crushing garlic releases allicin, an
enzyme that has antimicrobial/antifungal properties. Eat plain (no sugar, no artificial
sweeteners) organic, unpasteurized yogurt containing live, active cultures (probiotics)
like L. Acidophilus. (Only if you are not allergic to dairy products.)
● Eat foods high in omega-3 essential fatty acids such as ground flaxseed, wild-caught
salmon, minimal-mercury tuna, avocados, fish oil, and sprouted walnuts.
● Eat complex carbohydrates that digest slowly and gradually increase blood sugar
levels, such as pumpkin, winter squash, sweet potatoes, and raw apples.
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● Add saturated fats to your diet that have antimicrobial/antifungal properties such as
virgin coconut oil. Add nutrient-dense and unprocessed foods such as sprouted nuts
and seeds to your diet.
● Drink purified water throughout the day.
Consider the diagram below for a better and easier understanding of diets for a better
and healthy gut.
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Food Categories To Avoid
● Pickled foods such as pickled cucumbers (pickles), vegetables, mushrooms, relishes,
and sauerkraut.
● Fungi such as mushrooms.
● Fermented cheeses and wine.
● Simple or refined carbohydrates that spike blood sugar levels rapidly, such as
sugar, white bread, white-flour pasta, cookies, cakes, crackers, processed snacks
like potato chips, sugary soft drinks, and juices, all of which can aggravate Candi
da overgrowth.
● All foods containing refined sugar or artificial non-nutritive sweeteners such as
aspartame, Splenda, etc.
● Choose a natural sweetener like Xylosweet instead.
● Alcoholic beverages in excess since they hinder the functioning of the immune
and digestive systems and retard the healing process.
● Excessive caffeine intake – While moderate amounts of caffeine may be benefi
cial, excessive consumption can disrupt the body's systems, causing insomnia
and digestive irregularity (constipation or diarrhea) Bottom crawlers such as
oysters, clams, and lobster that may contain toxic levels of mercury.
● Deep-sea fish such as tuna, mackerel, and swordfish that may contain toxic
levels of mercury. Choose minimal mercury albacore tuna instead.
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● Farm-raised fish that contain high levels of PCBs, mercury, and little omega-3 (since
farm-raised fish are typically fed land-based foods). Choose wild-caught salmon
instead.
● Sodium nitrite found in processed foods such as hot dogs, lunch meats, and bacon.
● Monosodium glutamate (MSG) found in many foods as a flavor enhancer
● Hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils (trans fats) found in many processed
foods, deep-fried foods, fast food, and junk food.
● Foods that contain preservatives and artificial flavors and colors
● Products (such as soy milk and ice cream) that contain carrageenan, a seaweed
extract that's added to foods to retain their creamy texture. For some people, carra
geenan irritates the stomach.
● Allergenic foods such as casein in dairy products, gluten in wheat bread, soy prod
ucts, and peanuts (a legume that is often contaminated with aflatoxin, a natural
toxin, and carcinogen produced by certain strains of the mold Aspergillus flavus and
A. parasiticus that grow on peanuts stored in warm, humid silos.)
Food Categories That Can Help Heal Your Leaky Gut
● Consume more fruits and vegetables for easier digestion.
● Drink plenty of purified water in between meals.
● Eat frequent small meals rather than three large ones.
● Chew food slowly and thoroughly for proper digestion.
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● Heavy metal toxicity can produce vague symptoms that sometimes are mistaken for
other chronic conditions.
● Discuss heavy metal toxicity with your healthcare professional before receiving any
diagnosis or treatment for a serious chronic condition.
● If you have silver-colored dental fillings, get an evaluation from a mercury-free
dentist who specializes in the safe removal of mercury amalgam fillings. Mercury in
the body can damage the gastrointestinal system and be a cause of leaky gut.
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book is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease.Page
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Chapter Five
Nutritional Supplement Recommendation
n this chapter, we will outline different targeted nutritional supplements, herbs, com-
pounds, and lifestyle recommendations that may help you have a healthy gut. This
chapter will begin by providing a consolidated review of some of the current thoughts
surrounding things that may assist with LGS. This information will be followed by listing
dietary supplements that may help reduce symptoms as well as may help heal your diges
tive tract disturbances and LGS.
Helping To Repair LGS
One of the best ways to repair your leaky gut is to preserve the diversity and abundance
of your body's bacterial community, lower GI inflammation as much as possible. Much of
this can be achieved through nutritional supplementation, eating certain types of foods,
avoiding other kinds of foods, and making lifestyle changes. The following list is by no
means exhaustive. Still, more importantly, your course of action will differ depending on
your specific underlying ailment, i.e., if you have SIBO, or candida overgrowth, or food
sensitivity. That said, many action steps on this list may be helpful for most people. Here
are some ways to help repair LGS.
1 Herbs & Nutritional Supplementation
Marshmallow Root
Did you know that the marshmallow root is full of potential health benefits? In addition
to helping with soothing skin, coughs, and the digestive tract (among many other things),
marshmallow root may also assist in repairing the gut lining. Recent
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research shows that dried marshmallow root contains proline as the main compound.
Proline is an amino acid that helps build protein in the body for tissue repair. It is stored
in your body's collagen. In reference to leaky gut, marshmallow root creates a protective
layer around the GI cell junctions. You can take marshmallow root as a tea, tincture,
powder, or within a supplement capsule.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera leaves contain compounds that are broken down in the body that inhibit the
production of pro-inflammatory cytokines molecules that promote inflammation. More-
over, aloe vera extracts reduce the levels of gastric acid in the stomach that prevents
further damage to a leaky gut.
Licorice Root
Several clinical and experimental studies show that the rhizomes and roots of licorice
(Glycyrrhiza) can help several diseases through their pharmacological properties. These
properties include anticancer, antiasthma, antidiabetic, antioxidative, antimicrobial, anti-
viral, and anti-inflammatory activities. This is in addition to helping protect the cardio-
vascular system, nervous system, digestive tract, liver, and immune systems. Licorice
root also helps maintain the mucosal lining of the stomach and duodenum and can be
taken as a tea or supplement. You must be aware that licorice can cause swelling and
hypertension when taken in substantial quantities, so just don't overdo it.
2 Increase Intake of Dietary Fiber (prebiotics)
As mentioned earlier, dietary fiber (prebiotics) feed the healthy bacteria of the digestive
tract. They are, in essence, the food of microbes (probiotics). When the healthy gut bac-
teria ferment the insoluble fibers, it produces compounds that can help soothe inflamma-
tion. Maintaining a sufficient intake of fiber helps provides significant levels of these
compounds, which helps keep the junctions of the gut tight, preventing intestinal hyper
permeability. One of the many compounds created by gut microbiota from the dietary
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fiber is butyric acid or butyrate. Butyrate, along with other fermentation-derived prod-
ucts, is a molecule that has promising effects in helping with various diseases, including
colorectal cancer, inflammatory (bowel) diseases, diabetes, and obesity, as well as neuro-
logical disorders. In short, your immune function and energy metabolism partially depend
on the regulation of butyrate.
Research shows that butyrate may help improve neurological disorders, including but not
limited to depression, cognitive impairment, and neurodegenerative diseases. It has also
been shown that healthy brain function is related to the proper functioning of the gut
and composition of the GI tract microbiota. If you have SIBO or candida overgrowth, con
suming more fiber may not the best course of action.
3 Rest And Relaxation
Any change in gut microbiota affects the performance of the brain, which can cause anxi-
ety and depression. Practicing meditation is one way to reduce stress and calm the
fight-or-flight response, which prompts the release of hormones and neurotransmitters
in the body that disturb the microbiota. When stress levels are low, the gut bacterial
community can efficiently create anti-inflammatory compounds to heal a leaky gut.
4 Get Enough Quality Sleep
Getting enough and proper sleep helps regulates the production of inflammatory sub-
stances secreted by the immune system caused by sleep deprivation. Decreasing inflam-
mation can prevent the further development of IBS, liver disorders, gastroesophageal
reflux, and colorectal cancer. Correspondingly, the sleep-deprivation related diseases
exacerbate the same gastrointestinal disorders.
5 Get Enough Quality Sleep
Avoid the foods that trigger an immune response, as well as those that cause inflamma-
tion and increase the levels of pro-inflammatory and pathogenic bacteria. Eliminate or
reduce genetically modified (GM) food, sugar, gluten, dairy, processed foods, and alco-
hol. It's a great idea to try to eat organic as well.
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6 Prebiotics
Different from probiotic supplements, prebiotics may also help alleviate the symptoms of
and heal leaky gut. The non-digestible property of dietary fiber in prebiotics promotes
the growth of beneficial bacterial communities in the body. Prebiotics serves as food for
your gut microbiota. Insoluble fiber with prebiotic effects feeds and nourishes the good
bacteria that exist naturally in your gut.
When you consume fiber, its fermented in the large intestine by the bacteria that live
there. The fermentation produces byproducts (or food) and the environment that the
bacteria need in order to proliferate. Not only does prebiotic fiber strengthen and signifi-
cantly increase the good bacteria, it helps suppress the harmful bacteria, promoting an
optimal environment for good digestive health Sources of insoluble fiber/prebiotics are
dietary supplements or by eating prebiotic-rich raw food. These include prebiotic-effect
rich foods include chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke, dandelion greens, cooked beans,
garlic, leeks, onion (even cooked), asparagus, and banana. You can also get them from
apples, konjac root, cocoa, burdock root, flaxseeds, yacon root, jicama root, and seaweed.
If you have SIBO, this is not the best immediate course of action.
7 Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Turmeric, ginger, and other anti-inflammatory foods contain polyphenols and compounds
that have anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and antioxidant properties, as well as neuro and
cardiovascular protection. Polyphenols reduce the risk of diseases in the intestine, and
they have prebiotic-like activities that help increase the abundance and diversity of gut
microbiota, helping prevent and treat gastrointestinal disorders.
8 Exercise
Evidence shows that exercising increases the diversity of the gut microbiota, combating
dysbiosis. Thus, it can enhance the functions of the GI tract bacterial community to sup
press inflammation and regulate the immune response.
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9 Essential Oils
Essential oils can be a sweet-smelling way to nurse your gut back to health. Below are a
few essential oil options you may want to try to relieve gut symptoms. However, we
always recommend you discuss dosage and applications with a knowledgeable natural
health practitioner. The chemical components of thymol (in thyme) and geraniol (found in
oils such as rose) have been shown to be a helpful remedy for SIBO. Peppermint can also
assist digestion in both whole herb form, and oil form.
Targeted Nutrition For LGS
1 Complete Probiotic
Complete Probiotic is formulated so that it does not require refrigeration and contains
seven bacterial strains to help provide broad health and digestive tract benefits for the
consumers. Complete Probiotic contains the following probiotic strains:
Complete Probiotic
Help patients to overcome symptoms of chronic and acute diarrhea, irritable bowel
syndrome, and ulcerative colitis.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus
Having remarkable tolerance to harsh acidic environments, L. Rhamnosus has been clini-
cally proven to help fight digestive tract illness, suppress bacterial infections, assist in the
prevention of urinary tract infections. It helps build a superior immune system, aids in
dairy product digestion, and decreases the duration of cases of diarrhea. The bacterium
is a great help when it comes to the prevention of digestive tract disorders.
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Lactobacillus casei
L. casei is endogenous to the human body and is found mostly in the mouth and intes-
tines of humans. It has been shown to help lower pH of the digestive tract, which helps
protect against the development and overpopulation of harmful bacteria, which lead to
infection. It improves and promotes healthy digestion, helps control diarrhea, reduces gut
inflammation.
Bifidobacterium longum
This bacterium has been described as one of the essential good bacteria due to its ability
to maintain healthy digestion, inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, and boost the
immune system. Other benefits include diarrhea prevention in antibiotic-treated
patients, cholesterol reduction, and alleviation of lactose intolerance symptoms, immune
system stimulation, and cancer prevention.
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is domicile in the human mouth, the intestines, and the vagina.
Because L. acidophilus assists in the breakdown of food, it produces hydrogen peroxide,
lactic acid, and other substances which create an acidic environment. This helps prevent
the proliferation of harmful organisms.
Additionally, it helps individuals with lactose intolerance, as it creates lactase, which is
an enzyme that converts lactose into simple sugar.
Lactobacillus Plantarum
The bacterium is well known and accepted for its ability to promote proper digestive
health. L. Plantarum has been shown to be helpful for irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s
disease, and colitis. It can help destroy pathogens and preserve critical nutrients, vita-
mins, and antioxidants. It has the rare ability to produce L-Lysine, a beneficial amino acid.
The latest research shows that L. Plantarum is highly effective in preventing soy related
allergies.
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Bifidobacterium breve
Being a “key player” in digestive tract health, B. breve deficiency has been shown to be
related to antibiotic-associated diarrhea, allergies, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome. The
presence of B. breve appears to inhibit E. coli. B. breve is also present in the vagina,
where it helps to inhibit the overproduction of candida albicans, also known as the
primary cause of yeast infections in women.
2 CN-Digestion
CN-Digestion helps support digestive tract function by aiding in proper food digestion
and nutrient absorption. If you are suffering excessive gassing, bloating, and poor diges-
tion, the CN-Digestion may help. CN-Digestion is one of the most comprehensive diges-
tive enzyme supplements available today. It is a broad-spectrum multiple enzyme formu-
lation that contains 7 digestive enzymes along with probiotics, spirulina, dulse and trace
minerals. CN-Digestion places special emphasis on proteolytic enzymes so that it can be
used not only for digestive support but also to support comfort and provide building
blocks for injured tissues.
CN-Digestion may be beneficial for:
• Geriatric individuals (as we age, enzyme secretion decreases)
• Those with jaw or teeth problems (improper chewing of food decreases enzyme
secretion)
• Those under stress
• Those who overuse antacids (overuse of antacids can decrease enzyme effec
tiveness and secretion)
• Those who eat a lot of fried, grilled, or baked foods (foods prepared at high
temperatures for extended periods lose naturally occurring enzyme activity)
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• Helping to digest gluten with the enzyme DPP-IV
• People with deficient digestive enzymes (those who lack digestive enzymes are
more prone to digestive problems)
• For use as a proteolytic enzyme supplement
• CN-Digestion places special emphasis on proteolytic enzymes so that it can be used
not only for digestive support but also to help support comfort and provide building
blocks for injured tissues.
• Digestive enzymes are secreted along the G.I. tract and are essential to the break
Each enzyme in CN-Digestion works on a
specific substance in the body.
• Lipase enzymes help digest and assimilate fats.
• Protease enzymes (including bromelain, pepsin, trypsin, and papain) to help
digest proteins into smaller units (peptides and amino acids) for better absorp
tion and utilization.
• Lactase enzymes aid in lactose digestion.
• Amylase enzymes breakdown carbohydrates.
• Cellulase enzymes digest fiber.
• Dulse provides an edible alga that is high in vitamins, especially Vitamin B6 and
B12.
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• Spirulina is also known as blue-green algae and is considered a complete protein
containing all of the essential amino acids.
• Invertase splits sucrose into glucose and fructose. Contrary to most other enzymes,
invertase exhibits relatively high activity over a broad range of pH.
CN-GRMax
CN-GRMAX is an advanced “All-In-One” formula to help promote optimal gastrointesti-
nal health. CN-GRMax provides therapeutic levels of L-Glutamine, Arabinogalactans,
DMG, Aloe, DGL, Slippery Elm, Marshmallow, and Zinc Carnosine. CN-GRMAX has great
tasting powder and is very easy to absorb. It is designed to help support gut health, help
soothe the digestive tract lining, help promote regularity, and help promote microbial
balance and support proper immune function. It provides 5 grams of L-Glutamine per
serving and flavored with natural ingredients. CN-GRMAX is available in a convenient,
crystalline powder that mixes easily into any beverage or other functional food powder
and is free of any ingredients that cause gas and or bloating.
The Composition of CN-GRMax
Each serving of CN-GRMax provides:
● 5000 mg of l-glutamine to help fuel intestinal cells and maintain villi.
● 1000mg of Arabinogalactans to help support the immune system, aid regularity, and
support the production of beneficial bacteria.
● 500mg of DMG - Research indicates DMG may help modulate the immune
response. It has been used for over 20 years to help modulate inflammation in the
GI System and help support immune function.
● 500mg Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice root to help soothe the gut wall.
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