Every Naturopathic Doctor has a different plan how to manage “leaky gut” or “intestinal hyperpermeability”. To recap, leaky gut can happen in an over-stressed or over-medicated individual. It can be the result of a tremendous amount of inflammatory cells. These cells damage the lining of the intestines and compromise our ability to digest and absorb nutrients.
Healing the gut lining takes time and involves identifying the trigger of inflammation and removing it. Then we can work on healing the lining and making it stronger.
Betaine Hydrochloride
Best when taken along with an anti-inflammatory diet. It works to increase the production of stomach acid and reset the gut signals to produce stomach acid naturally.
Digestive Enzymes
These are taken with meals over the course of the anti-inflammatory diet to encourage the breakdown of foods. They help to lower the burden on the digestive organs and reduce inflammation in the gut. Most people notice decreases in bloating and gas within a few days of starting a digestive enzyme. It is important to note that digestive enzymes are not for everyone, and all digestive enzymes are not made equally.
L-Glutamine
This amino acid is food for the cells of the intestine and helps to heal the cells of the leaky intestine. I have had mixed reviews on this, and many patients do not always feel better adding glutamine to their routine. Other than gut health, glutamine is important for muscle health and recovery from exercise.
EGCG Green Tea Extract
This powerful antioxidant is not always used for digestive health, but has a role in boosting metabolism. It helps to regulate the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. EGCG functions differently than a probiotic and should not be used as a substitute, but is a powerful adjunct in rebuilding a healthy balance in the gut.
Probiotics
As mentioned above, adding good bacteria are essential in re-establishing a healthy gut flora. Because so much of the immune system lives within our gastrointestinal tract, it is important to keep it pumped with good bacteria. That being said, certain types of bacteria are better suited to certain digestive concerns. Sometimes probiotics can make people feel worse, as they usually do with SIBO. It is important to ask your ND if you need to be on a probiotic and which one would be the best for you.