Supplements to Provide Support When You Have Leaky Gut Part 2

Leaky gut, or intestinal permeability, has been found in people before they were diagnosed with intestinal diseases.

These gut health studies have led to some speculation that intestinal permeability might develop independently from gut health diseases and may be contributing cause to certain gut diseases.

Intestinal Permeability and Gut Health Issues

However, scientists have found that intestinal permeability in some instances isn't enough to cause the disease on its own. Instead, it's more likely to be an early sign or warning that an individual is headed toward a disease of the gut.

In addition, many other diseases other than gut-related diseases have been associated with leaky gut. Because a leaky gut creates "toxins" that leak out from your intestines into your bloodstream, this causes an inflammatory response. Chronic low-grade inflammation has been shown to be an essential factor in many diseases, including metabolic disorders such as obesity. In addition to metabolic disorders, chronic low inflammation associated with leaky gut has also been associated with diabetes, arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma, and fibromyalgia. 

Besides changing your diet to a FODMAP diet and taking out unnecessary medications that you don't need to take, you can also add supplements that support your digestive system, so your digestive system can heal from the leaky gut syndrome. The following supplements are suggestions on what you can take to help your gut heal and mend.

Licorice root

An adaptogenic herb that helps balance cortisol levels and improves acid production in the stomach, licorice root supports the body's natural processes for maintaining the mucosal lining of the stomach and duodenum. This herb is especially beneficial if the leaky gut is caused by emotional stress. In addition, it can help improve the way you produce and metabolize cortisol.

Marshmallow root

Because this root has antioxidant and antihistamine properties, marshmallow root makes a great addition to any natural medicine cabinet, particularly for those struggling with gut-related issues.

Collagen 

The secret behind the power of bone broth is collagen. This main supportive protein gives bone, cartilage, and tendons their strength. Once cooked, it becomes a food we know well, called "gelatin." Supplementing with collagen or gelatin is essential as these can help boost your gastric juices and restore the integrity and health of your mucosal lining. Collagen also contains the amino acids proline and glycine, which are essential building blocks for repairing damaged intestinal lining. Drink eight to 16 ounces of bone broth daily or take two tablespoons of collagen protein twice daily, preferably a brand that offers multiple types and sources of collagen.

NAG

N-acetyl glucosamine has gained popularity in mainstream medicine. This supplement is now widely accepted for its ability to protect the lining of your stomach and intestines. In addition, because of its anti-inflammatory effects, NAG has also been reported to help with osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Mushrooms

Adaptogenic Reishi mushrooms can help to positively influence your immune system, most of which is located in your gut. Not only has reishi been found in studies to help to kill dangerous cells that cause diseases like cancer, but they can also protect healthy genes from becoming mutated. Your immune system also benefits from reishi because these mushrooms support the liver's efforts in detoxification.

With its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, the lion's mane mushroom may improve the function of your stomach and digestive system. In animal studies, the lion's mane mushroom has been shown to protect from or shrink gastric ulcers. Lion's mane may also significantly improve symptoms of two major inflammatory disorders of the digestive system, gastritis, and inflammatory bowel disease, as indicated in lab studies and research on mice.

When taking supplements, always make sure to start with one or two at a time, so you can tell which supplements are most effective. And as always, use supplements and medications under the direction of a qualified medical provider.