Understanding Intestinal Permeability

What is Intestinal Permeability?

Your gut lining is a protective barrier—just one cell thick—that controls what gets absorbed into your bloodstream and what stays out. Think of it as a gatekeeper: it allows nutrients and water to pass through, while keeping larger molecules, toxins, pathogens, and undigested food particles out.

In a healthy gut, these cells are tightly joined together. But when the spaces between them begin to loosen (a process mediated by proteins like zonulin), the barrier becomes "leaky"—allowing unwanted substances to pass into the bloodstream. This is what we refer to as increased intestinal permeability, or more commonly, leaky gut.

‍

What causes Intestinal Permeability?

There are several factors—often working in combination—that can contribute to a compromised gut lining:

• ‍Poor Diet: A highly processed, Western-style diet rich in refined sugars, alcohol, and artificial additives can irritate and weaken the gut lining. For some individuals, gluten and dairy may also increase permeability, particularly if there are underlying sensitivities or intolerances.‍
• Chronic Stress: Long-term stress can impair digestion, weaken immunity, and increase inflammation—all of which can damage the gut barrier. ‍
• Gut Dysbiosis and/or GIT infections: An imbalance in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can lead to the overgrowth of harmful microbes that produce toxins, irritating the gut lining. Additionally, gut infections like parasites or viruses can activate the immune system and contribute to increased permeability.‍
• Some Medications: Frequent or long-term use of medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), antibiotics, and acid-blockers can disrupt the gut microbiome and damage the intestinal barrier.‍
• Environmental Toxins: Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in everyday products can also contribute to a leaky gut by weakening the intestinal lining over time.

‍

What are the consequences of Intestinal Permeability?

• ‍Chronic Inflammation: Undigested food particles or bacteria entering the bloodstream can trigger an immune response, contributing to systemic inflammation. ‍
• Food Sensitivities: Leaky gut is often linked to the development of new food intolerances or sensitivities, as the immune system starts reacting to substances it shouldn't normally "see."‍
• Autoimmune Conditions: Emerging research suggests that increased intestinal permeability may be a key trigger in autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and coeliac disease.‍
• Digestive Upset and related symptoms: Bloating, gas, cramping, constipation, or diarrhoea may all stem from gut barrier dysfunction.‍
• Skin Issues: Conditions like eczema, acne, or psoriasis are often linked to gut health, particularly through the gut-skin connection.‍
• Mood and Brain Health: The gut and brain are closely connected via the gut-brain axis. Leaky gut has been associated with anxiety, depression, and brain fog.

‍

Supporting you Gut Healing Naturally

The good news? Your gut has the capacity to heal—with the right support. In naturopathic care, treatment is always individualised, but may include:

• ‍Removing gut irritants (e.g. trigger foods, environmental toxins)‍
• Rebuilding the gut lining with key gastrointestinal nutrients including glutamine, zinc, and vitamin A‍
• Rebalancing gut flora using probiotics and prebiotics‍
• Reducing inflammation through herbal medicine, omega-3s, and anti-inflammatory foods‍
• Restoring digestive function with enzymes or bitters‍
• Regulating stress through mindfulness, breathwork, or adaptogenic herbs

‍

Leaky gut is not a one-size-fits-all condition—it often presents differently in every individual. If you're experiencing ongoing digestive issues, fatigue, skin conditions, or immune imbalances, intestinal permeability may be part of the picture. Working with a qualified naturopath can help you uncover the root cause of your symptoms and gently guide your body back to balance through a personalised, holistic approach. If you suspect that  leaky gut may be behind your digestive woes, let’s chat! Book your consultation today and take the first step toward rebuilding your gut health.

Book Now