Understanding the Gut Brain Connection

2. Leaky- gut and Leaky Brain

Challenges, such as leaky gut are on the rise. A leaky gut can also contribute to inflammation within the body, causing the blood-brain barrier to become leaky, or permeable. This means that molecules and toxins may be able to enter the brain. In a healthy gut, the wall of the small intestine acts as a gatekeeper. It allows water and nutrients to absorb while harmful substances are kept out. Poor diet, medications, and bacterial overgrowth compromise the lining of the gut and determine what is known as a leaky gut. Symptoms vary but can include food sensitivities, allergies, arthritis, hives and more. Several foods can help to heal the gut, and thus the blood-brain barrier. These include bone broth, raw cultured dairy, fermented vegetables, coconut kefir, as well as sprouted seeds and legumes. Conditions associated with leaky-brain include:

• ADD
• ALS
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Autism
• Brain fog
• Diabetes
• Anorexia
• Epilepsy
• Infections of the nervous system (parasites, bacterial infections, fungal infections)
• Mood challenges (anxiety, bipolar, depression)
• Multiple sclerosis
• Stroke