We often underestimate how important our gut is. Gut is a loosely used term to describe the stomach or belly area. Mostly when someone has “gut problems”, medically, it means that something is wrong with the intestines.

We take care of our heart, eyes, skin, but we often forget that a lot of our bodily functions are directly related to our gut. Our intestines are complex and are extremely compressed. They help in passage of undigested food, absorption of nutrients and excretion. The intestinal wall has layers of tissues which are specifically built to protect the outer viscera from whatever is inside. Sometimes, the permeability of the intestinal wall increases and the internal matter “leaks” into the outer area. This condition is known as leaky gut. It is medically termed as increased intestinal permeability. Bacteria and toxins can enter the bloodstream and cause a lot of different health problems.

What are the main causes of leaky gut?

It can be caused to genetic conditions. But apart from genetic predisposition, other factors also can play a role. Changes in environmental factors, pollution, bad food habits, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, stress, misbalanced diet and exposure to lots of chemicals can also trigger this condition.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, then it’s advisable that you see a doctor and get yourself back to health-

Symptoms of leaky gut-

  • Diarrhoea or constipation or passing of gas over several days with little or no relief.
  • Decreased immunity, more prone to flu or viral infections
  • Nutritional deficiencies which were not prominent before
  • Headaches, loss of memory, brain fog
  • Skin problems like rosacea, acne, rashes or eczema
  • Joint pain leading to serious arthritis
  • Extreme fatigue, lack of energy to do simple tasks
  • Constantly craving some sort of carbohydrate or sugary substances

If you are experiencing more than two or three of the symptoms mentioned, its highly probable that you have leaky gut. But see a doctor and get some tests done, just to be sure. Don’t worry too much. With proper medication, supplements and some changes in diet, you will be fit in no time.

There are several leaky gut restoring supplements that you can take. It not just facilitates the healing of the gut but it completely eradicates it, over time. Many people have tried remedies to cope with the pain. Total restore was the primary usage for restores.

What not to do if you have a leaky gut-

Apart from medication and supplements, these are a few things which you need to cut out of your diet to restore complete normal function of your intestines-

  • Coffee and other caffeine products
  • Dairy
  • Soy
  • Gluten
  • Alcohol
  • Refined sugar
  • Bad fats

Ask a nutritionist to help you out if you are unable to find alternatives to these food items.

What to include in diet to heal your gut?

  • More collagen in food
  • Digestive and dietary supplements (as instructed by your nutritionist or doctor)
  • Coconut oil
  • Olive oil
  • Avocado
  • Flax seeds
  • Fish
  • Nuts

All the above food items contain good fats and facilitate in growth of the good bacteria (intestinal flora) in your gut. You will feel an increase in your energy levels and your stomach problems will slowly go away.

Depending on the intensity, patients suffering from leaky gut are completely cured from anywhere between 2 weeks to 3 months.