A Functional Medicine Approach
to Leaky Gut
Intestinal permeability, commonly referred to as “leaky gut,” is a condition where the tight junctions that bind the enterocytes (cells lining the small intestine) become compromised. These junctions normally regulate what passes through the intestinal lining, but when compromised, food particles, toxins, viruses, bacteria, and other substances may inadvertently enter the bloodstream.
When these foreign substances gain access to the bloodstream, the immune system responds by triggering inflammation, which can manifest as various symptoms across different body systems that may not initially appear related to the digestive tract. In other words, leaky gut syndrome can present with or without accompanying digestive symptoms.
This condition highlights the intricate connection between gut health and overall well-being, as a compromised intestinal barrier can potentially contribute to a wide range of systemic issues, underscoring the importance of addressing the root cause of intestinal permeability through a comprehensive, functional medicine approach.
CAUSES
- Inadequate production of gastric a
- Use of NSAIDs and antibiotics
- Persistent maldigestion
- Impacts of food allergens on absorptive surfaces of the bowel
- Bacterial imbalances or overgrowth (dysbiosis)
- Presence of pathogenic yeast and parasites
- Prolonged Exposure to Stress
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Related Symptoms.
- Joint Pain
- Cardiovascular conditions
- Digestive Condtions
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Immune Dysregulation
- Skin Issues (Psoriasis, Rosacea)
- Musculoskeletal system
- Unexplained Symptoms
Our bjective is to aid you in achieving optimal health and wellbeing.
TREATMENT APPROACH
At the Edinburgh Centre for Functional Medicine we take a comprehensive approach to managing intestinal permeability by assessing the patient’s symptoms and investigating the underlying pathogenesis. Laboratory testing, such as the SIBO breath test and Comprehensive Stool Analysis can identify bacterial imbalances and intestinal malabsorption, while IgG Food Sensitivity Testing can pinpoint which foods are inflammatory and the severity of the permeability.
Therapies aim to remove what is causng the issue by addresing its root cause while supporting tight junction formation and intestinal regeneration. Treatment involves dietary changes, lifestyule changes and targeted supplements.
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Why Choose the Edinburgh Centre for Functional Medicine?
Approach
Each individual is distinct and has a unique set of circumstances. Your symptoms, lifestyle, diet, genetics, and ability to heal are all different and therefore require a personalized approach that is tailored specifically to you
Support
Once you begin the process with us, our collaborative approach with a practitioner will guide you through every step. We will collect the necessary information through detailed intake forms tailor our support to motivate and assist you throughout the process.
Experience
Our functional medicine practitioners have years of experience focusing on the route cause of disease that address any imbalances rather than just treating symptonms.