Leaky gut syndrome is not a recognized medical condition.
There is no approved diagnosis or treatment method for it.
The gut lining can become more permeable in various gastrointestinal conditions.
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This permeability might be linked to abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.
Defining Leaky Gut Syndrome and Gut Permeability
The organs of thedigestive systemhave an inner lining.
That lining has many roles, including absorbing nutrients and other substances from foods and drinks.
It is also a barrier that prevents potentially harmful substances from passing through it and into intestinal tissue.
When this lining has gaps, it becomes more permeable.
These substances could then move on to enter the bloodstream.
Undigested food particles, bacteria, or toxic substances can enter body tissues this way.
Do Providers Recognize Leaky Gut Syndrome?
Leaky gut syndrome isnot a recognized diagnosisby the medical community.
It is more commonly discussed in “lay” literature, meaning nonmedical professional materials.
That doesn’t mean that intestinal permeability is not possible or is not a problem.
The gut lining, in general, has a certain amount of permeability.
It has to allow nutrients to pass through it.
Leaky gut is also something that is not diagnosable withstool testsorblood tests.
No test is universally recognized as reliable in diagnosing intestinal permeability.
Starting a new way of eating can be challenging.
Making small changes weekly is one strategy that may help.
It may also be helpful tokeep a food diaryin a journal or through an app.
Managing stress whenever possible is also important in maintaining good digestion.
It can help to look forintegrative practitionerscertified by the American Board of Integrative Medicine (ABOIM).
These practitioners use Western medicine, traditional medicine, and complementary medicine.
However, healthcare providers such asgastroenterologistsand dietitians may suggest ways to help decrease permeability.
A trial was done in adults with obesity.
Probiotics that contain two different strains of a bacteria calledBifidobacteriumhelped these people with intestinal permeability.
The other example is from a mouse study.
It involved a proprietary strain of probiotics called VSL#3.
The mice with medication-induced colitis had less intestinal permeability when given VSL#3.
You might see a registered dietitian to manage gut permeability.
A mental health professional may also help manage the emotional aspects of leaky gut.
Having a wide variety of symptoms without a specific cause can postpone a diagnosis and treatment, affecting emotions.
However, options are available.
There is no accepted way to diagnose or treat leaky gut syndrome.
People experiencing digestive issues should see a healthcare provider for symptom relief and a possible diagnosis.
This includes people already living with a digestive or immune-mediated condition who are experiencing new or ongoing symptoms.
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