By Christine Cheng, R.Ph. and Frederick Cheng, R.Ph.
Leaky Gut Syndrome (LGS) is a collection of possible signs and symptoms that vary from bloating, gas, gastrointestinal (GI) cramping, and food sensitivities to aches, and pains outside of the GI tract. It is believed that these symptoms result from a compromised epithelial lining of the gut, which allows for the passage of toxins and bacteria into the blood stream. Specifically, when the proteins forming the tight junctions between the cells lining the gut (i.e., the epithelial cells) are impaired, things not normally allowed to pass from the lumen of the gut into the blood stream can pass through. The body then reacts to these toxins and bacteria resulting different diseases. It is important to note that LGS does not cause the disease; rather studies are showing there is a correlation. Also, it is not so much the existence of a leaky gut that causes the disease so much as that it “triggers” the disease in someone with a pre-existing a genetic predisposition. As with other “syndromes”, there is no clear diagnostic tool for clinicians to use.
For those who may have LGS, changing to a diet that incorporates more colourful fruits and vegetables while reducing the exposure to common allergens and potential pro-inflammatory foods such as dairy or gluten-containing foods can really help. There are also a few supplements whose goals are to improve the health of the gut lining. Probably the best known supplement is an amino acid called L-GLUTAMINE. The epithelium in the gastro-intestinal system proliferates and turn overs more rapidly than other tissues in the body. L-glutamine is an amino acid that is significant in the synthesis of the GI lining. As the lining is sloughed off, it is imperative for the body to have adequate building blocks to rebuild the lining. Thus, supplementation with l-glutamine can help heal up the gut. Although most people will do well with a basic l-glutamine supplement, some find it is not enough. Metagenics’ medical food “ULTRA GI REPLENISH” provides its l-glutamine in a specialized form called alanine-glutamine-dipeptide that is more soluble and better absorbed than basic l-glutamine. In addition to this amino acid, Ultra GI Replenish provides prebiotics which can nourish the healthy GI microbial fauna. Also included are nutrients such as vitamin B12 and folate in their biologically active forms and zinc to support mucosal integrity. Benefits from Ultra GI Replenish can be felt in as little as a week while taking two servings a day.
Another interesting and effective supplement is “MS+”, a preparation of aged mandarin skin that is clinically proven to help with multiple gastrointestinal issues. It helps LGS by improving the function of the tight junctions, this decreasing GI permeability.
It has been shown that antibiotic use can improve symptoms of suspected LGS, i.e., killing of pathogenic bacteria could benefit. From the other side of the coin, one could try to increase the presence of beneficial bacteria to improve the symptoms. To this end, a probiotic may be useful to push the balance of microbes to favour the so-called “good” gut bacteria. Furthermore, there is preliminary evidence that probiotics may reverse leaky gut by enhancing the proteins that form tight junctions.
If you are experiencing GI issues, it is always important to be assessed by your physician. Come talk to us if you would like to discuss whether these supplements would be appropriate for you.
Christine and Fred Cheng are a passionate, charismatic sister-brother pharmacist team at their unique, family-owned and operated Pharmasave stores in Cloverdale and Steveston, B.C. They specialize in natural remedies and compounding for both human and veterinarian use. Everything mentioned in their article is available InStore.
***All information posted and shared by Cloverdale Pharmasave is offered to provide information and choices regarding nutritional support for various health concerns, none of which is intended to be a treatment protocol for any disease state. The information does not replace seeking professional advice from your physician. Consult your health care practitioner before taking dietary supplements.
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