What is Leaky Gut?
Our intestines are responsible for absorbing majority of the nutrients and minerals we consume, recovering water and electrolytes, and digestion. Leaky Gut Syndrome has been introduced as a condition where the intestines are not functioning properly, or ‘leaking’. Scientifically, this can be referred to as increased intestinal permeability. Intestines that are unhealthy may have holes or cracks in the lining. This allows unwanted material to leak into surrounding tissues in the body. The leak makes it very difficult for the intestines to determine what to absorb and what to excrete. (1)
Symptoms can include inflammation, bloating, digestive issues, and sometimes play a role in chronic disease.
Toxins are being released into the body through the modern diet. These toxins contribute to unwanted side effects in our gut. Unfortunately, this is a fairly new concern people are facing today. It oftentimes is overlooked as an underlying issue causing larger health concerns.
How is Leaky Gut developed?
Some of us may have a genetic predisposition where our digestive system is more sensitive than the average person. However, as the American diet continues to change – it is becoming more and more common in many people today. Today’s diet is lacking in fiber and high in sugar and saturated fats. We are also seeing less nutrients and minerals in our foods due to soil depletion, food processing, subpar storage and our cooking methods. By the time a meal reaches your plate the nutritional value is not nearly what it used to be and even further away from what it should be. Supplementation can be beneficial to combat the loss of nutrients in our food as long as you are sure you are absorbing the minerals so the body can reap the benefits.
What You Can do to Have a Healthier Gut
Changing your diet to include key vitamins and minerals will support your body to function at its highest level. In addition to choosing a healthier diet, supplementing minerals such as iron, potassium, selenium and/or zinc may aid in a healthier gut. Drinking health amounts of water, getting enough rest and exercise are also great ways to naturally improve gut health.
Remember, you are what you absorb. If you are eating hard-to-digest foods or taking hard-to-digest supplements, you may not be absorbing the nutrients you need to function optimally. Incorporating fulvic acid into your diet can be beneficial. It can start improving mineral nutrient absorption within your body’s cells within the first 30-90 days of adding it to your diet.