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Five Signs of a Leaky Gut and What to Do About It: Advice from a Chicago Osteopathic Physician

By July 24, 2019September 11th, 2019Diet & Nutrition
leaky-gut-pain

Sometimes called increased intestinal permeability, leaky gut is a condition in which toxins and bacteria manage to leak through the wall of the intestines. Unfortunately, once these toxins and bacteria make their way through the intestines, they enter the bloodstream, and cause a number of different health problems.

Curious as to whether or not you have a leaky gut? Then read below. Not only are we going to discuss the signs of a leaky gut, but we’re also going to discuss its treatment options.

Signs of a Leaky Gut

There are several signs that you might be suffering from a leaky gut. The most prominent of these signs include the following.

1. Gastrointestinal Issues

One of the most common signs of a leaky gut is gastrointestinal issues. If you deal with irritable bowel, GERD, heartburn, or some other type of GI problem, you could very well be dealing with a leaky gut as well.

Excessive gas and bloating could also be indicative of the issue. This is particularly true if you demonstrate other symptoms along with it.

The reason that these conditions might be present is because your leaky gut is eliminating the functionality of your enzymes. If these enzymes aren’t present, they aren’t able to assist in digestion.

2. Chronic Headache 

Another common sign of leaky gut is chronic headache. Those who suffer from headaches on a consistent basis often do so because their bodies are not properly absorbing minerals. A leaky gut is often the cause of this, as it dumps these minerals before they can be digested.

3. Perpetual Fatigue

Do you feel tired all of the time? Have trouble getting out of bed in the mornings? While it’s not necessarily the culprit, a leaky gut could be to blame.

A leaky gut makes it difficult for the body to process nutrients. If these nutrients aren’t processed by the body, then the body won’t work at its full capacity. As such, perpetual fatigue will become a reality.

4. Anxiety/Depression

Anxiety and depression have been linked to leaky gut as well. It is believed that when the gut becomes leaky, bacteria makes its way in, altering the way the gut’s microbiota behave. This change in behavior causes inflammation, which can lead to depression and anxiety.

Therefore, if you experience either of these conditions, a leaky gut could be the culprit.

5. Skin Problems

Skin problems have also been attributed to a leaky gut. Everything from eczema to acne and more are thought to be the cause of the inflammation discussed above. It is believed that by doing away with the leaky gut, one could greatly reduce the effects of these skin conditions.

Combating a Leaky Gut

The key to combating a leaky gut is simple: eat a healthy diet. A diet free of gluten, soy, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and sugar will work wonders in repairing a leaky gut, enabling your entire body to perform at its optimal levels.

Do you need help devising a diet? If so, you should consider seeing an osteopathic physician.

Utilize the Services of an Osteopathic Physician in Chicago

Do you demonstrate any of the signs of a leaky gut? If so, you might consider utilizing the services of an osteopathic physician. Looking for an osteopathic physician in Chicago? The Feely Center for Optimal Health has you covered.

Our team of physicians has treated leaky guy in numerous patients. Regardless of the severity of your symptoms, we can help you to combat them in a measured and balanced manner.

Contact us now to schedule an appointment!

Dr. Richard Feely

Author Dr. Richard Feely

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