The intestines or gut is made up of microbiota that regulates and protect the mucosal lining of the intestines. Certain foods we eat disrupt this microbiota. When this microbiota is disturbed, the mucosal lining of our gut is damaged. The permeability of the gut lining is increased allowing toxins, food, and antigens to enter the bloodstream, thus the term “leaky gut.” Once in your bloodstream, these foreign substances are not recognized by your body and are considered by your immune system to be an invader. The body’s immune system attacks these “invaders” causing inflammation.
Now, what do I do?
Avoiding foods that cause inflammation or trigger allergies or food sensitivities is the first step.
Also, feeding the microbiota of the gut is important. Prebiotic foods and the probiotics found in miso, sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, kombucha, and yogurts nourish the gut’s bacteria. Another way to support gut health is to help repair the gut lining. Bone broth contains lysine, glycine, and collagen that help repair the gut lining. Repairing the gut lining will help improve the immune system over time.
Your gut is an important part of your health. Take care of the inside as well as you do the outside.
