How Leaky Gut Contributes to Autoimmune Diseases - A Naturopathic Perspective

Autoimmune diseases are a complex and often misunderstood group of conditions that affect many patients. These diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues in the body.

The causes of autoimmune disease are likely multi-factorial. A useful analogy for patients would be a sequence of events such as:

Once an autoimmune disease has been triggered, one of the approaches we can take is to address other factors that indirectly may aggravate an autoimmune condition by triggering more inflammation. One way to understand this is, for example, the commonly held understanding that it is hard to get well from almost any condition if someone is not sleeping at all.

In this article, we will only discuss one of these other factors: the concept of leaky gut, its connection to autoimmune diseases, and how naturopathic treatments can help.

Understanding Leaky Gut

Leaky gut, also more correctly known as increased intestinal permeability, is a condition in which the lining of the intestines becomes more porous than it should be. This increased permeability allows toxins, food antigens that are not completely broken down to 2-3 amino acid components, and possibly bacteria to leak into the bloodstream.

Normally, the intestinal lining acts as a protective barrier, selectively allowing nutrients to be absorbed while preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream.

However, when the integrity of the gut lining is compromised, secondary lines of defenses come into play, most pronounced being an activation of the immune system to neutralize the antigens.

When the gut lining becomes permeable, it allows foreign substances to enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response. The constant activation of the immune system, along with the presence of these foreign particles, can lead to chronic inflammation and an overactive immune response.

While this prevents more acute, serious harm, the constant activation of the immune system can aggravate an already present autoimmune condition.

Causes and Symptoms of Leaky Gut

Leaky gut can be caused by a variety of factors, including disruptions in the gut bacteria balance (eg gut infection, food poisoning, antibiotics), autoimmune disease itself directed at the gut (eg. Crohn's or colitis). Additionally, certain lifestyle factors such as a high-stress level, poor diet, and the use of certain medications can contribute to the development of leaky gut.

The symptoms of leaky gut can vary from person to person, but some common signs include digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, as well as sometimes secondary symptoms such as fatigue, joint and muscle pain, skin problems, and food sensitivities.

Very often, in my practice I see patients with what we suspect to be a predominant yeast overgrowth. These patients may have minimal symptoms on waking, but as they eat during the day they tend to get progressively worse bloating, distention, flatulence, and diarrhea.

It is important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other health conditions, so a proper workup is essential.

Naturopathic Perspective on Leaky Gut and Autoimmune Diseases

From a naturopathic perspective, addressing the possibility of leaky gut can be a useful component of treating autoimmune diseases. Naturopathic treatments aim to restore the integrity of the gut lining, reduce inflammation, restore the healthy microbiome, and rebalance the immune system.

One approach is to focus on improving gut health through dietary and lifestyle changes. This may include eliminating trigger foods, such as gluten and dairy, that can contribute to gut inflammation. Sometimes, identifying food sensitivities by antibody or T spot testing can be useful (this is different from true allergies, and testing by skin or IgE testing).

Additionally, incorporating nutrient-dense foods, probiotics when indicated, and digestive enzymes if deficient can help support the healing of the gut lining. Specific calming nutrients including glutamine, and n-acetyl glucosamine are often helpful.

Naturopath doctors also utilize botanical medicines and supplements to reduce inflammation and support immune health. These may include herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and licorice, as well as supplements like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and micronutrients such as zinc.

Furthermore, stress management along with specific techniques and optimizing sleep patterns are important aspects of naturopathic treatment, as they can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

Conclusion

Leaky gut is a condition that can significantly contribute to the development and progression of autoimmune diseases. By understanding the connection between leaky gut and autoimmune diseases, we can take proactive steps to address their gut health and support their immune system.

Assessing for and treating increased intestinal permeability may be important for some patients diagnosed with autoimmune disease, but it is still only one component. Considering the possibilities of any persisting triggers, and other determinants of immune health are important.

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