There are a variety of factors that influence gut permeability and inflammation. On Instagram @AndreaHardyRD, I talk all about what the research shows regarding how the gut barrier integrity can be disrupted.

Image of @andreahardyrd Instagram post about gut health and inflammation

Leaky gut isn’t ‘made up’ per se but is OFTEN overhyped in the world of social media.⁠⠀
This week I interview Desiree Nielsen, fellow digestive health dietitian on the role the gut barrier plays in inflammation and chronic disease. ⁠⠀
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At the end of the day, there is a mix of associative and causative research to show us how gut barrier integrity can be disrupted. But do we need a fancy pill, potion, or diet to help encourage a healthy gut barrier? ⁠⠀
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No!⁠⠀
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It’s all about getting back to basics:⁠⠀
– If you smoke, consider quitting as it may influence gut barrier function⁠⠀
– Get enough sleep! ⁠⠀
– Reduce or eliminate alcohol intake ⁠⠀
– Focus on fibre and variety in the diet – (Desiree has SO many good recipes and tips for eating more plants)⁠⠀
– Reduce stress where able and learn to positively cope with stress⁠⠀
– Discuss with your doctor appropriate use of NSAID’s (aspirin & ibuprofen)⁠⠀
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Yes, gut permeability – or how ‘leaky’ your gut is appears to be both a symptom of certain disease states, and can increase risk of certain conditions. But there’s not a diagnostic tool, and it’s only ONE factor in the development of some chronic diseases, so skip the hype and tune into this episode of Let’s Gut Real!⁠⠀
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DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2017.1343143 ⁠⠀