Risk Factors For Leaky Gut Syndrome

Chronic Inflammation

The immune system responds to threats from infections and injuries by creating inflammation. This increases blood flow and sends white blood cells to the infected area. Chronic inflammation occurs when the body is attempting to eliminate a perceived threat on an ongoing basis, whether it is real or not. The immune system may be mistaking organ tissue as the culprit causing the body to attack itself or try to eliminate exposure to a certain toxin, but is unable to completely rid itself of the contamination. This constant state of hypervigilance can cause a progressively weakening immune system or for the immune system to continue to target other areas of the body. The gut is a common area of inflammation, due to the easily upset intestinal flora and foods that may be causing an allergic reaction. This may trigger the immune system to begin attacking the intestines, as it's unable to eliminate the foods perceived as a threat. The result is a weakening of the intestinal lining and the possible onset of leaky gut syndrome.

Excessive Consumption Of Sugar

Too much sugar is known to be generally unhealthy for the body, increasing the risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Excessive consumption of sugar can even upset the intestinal flora and cause inflammation, which may increase an individual's risk of developing leaky gut syndrome.

Yeast feeds on sugar and can proliferate if too much is present in the intestine. It can be easy to eat too much sugar, as many products add extra sugar to enhance flavor. But the daily recommended allowance for added sugar is only twenty-five grams for women and thirty-eight grams for men. Refined sugar breaks down in the gut too quickly and doesn't provide the healthy bacteria of the gut with macrobiotics to support their growth. Instead, yeast may begin to thrive and quickly take over, crowd out the flora population, release toxins, and deteriorate the lining of the gut. Sugar can also cause inflammation, further aggravating intestinal health and causing a breakdown of the intestinal barrier.