This is when the intestinal lining becomes porous, or hyper-permeable’. This means that larger, undigested food molecules, yeast, Candida, and toxins flow into the bloodstream.
The liver has to work harder to process the unusual unfiltered overload and cholesterol levels rise, in an attempt to fix the damage from inflammation.
The immune system becomes stressed due to the constant demand for protection against foreign invaders and toxins, and protecting the body from the damage of inflammation. Due to the excitability of the immune system (which is also suppressed during stress!) there is often an over-reaction to immune triggers. This is when we see evidence of auto-immune dis-orders e.g. asthma, eczema, sinusitis, psoriasis, irritable bowl, arthritis etc.
It’s essential to address causative agents (stress, diet, lifestyle, alcohol, sugar, medications, environment etc.) and limit them as much as possible, together with replacing the necessary bacteria to restore flora, it is of value to repair damaged gut lining.
How to repair this problem?
* L-Glutamine is a source of fuel and precursor for growth of the cells of the gut lining.
* Deglycyrrhized Licorice and aloe vera are very good plant sources of anti-inflammatory agents, especially for the digestive system as they are soothing and restoring. Licorice can cause high blood pressure and must be taken with care, hence the recommendation for deglycyrrhized types.
It is of value to note that indigestion (heart burn), burping and flatulence can be an indicator of low stomach acid. It is worth using some digestive enzyme support to ensure that food is properly digested before leaving the stomach. Low stomach acid is caused by certain medications, poor diet, stress and gut dysbiosis.
Herbs such as peppermint, fennel, fenugreek and rosemary are soothing to the digestive system. They can be consumed in tea format or added to salad and food.
An elimination diet is recommended as part of the gut healing process, in order to limit food sensitivities, irritants and activating agents.
Attending to candida, with the use of herbs, seed extracts and clay’s, is highly beneficial. See blog on Parasites & Candida.
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